Down's Syndrome Overview

Down’s syndrome, also called as Trisomy 21, is a disorder that results because of gene problem that takes place during conception. Down’s syndrome affects 1 out of 800 babies born in the US. It is the most common cause of cognitive impairment. Children suffering from Down’s syndrome have particular facial features, such as a short neck, low muscle tone (hypotonia) and flat face. They also have a certain extent of intellectual disability. Down’s syndrome is often accompanied by other ailments, such as heart defects, Alzheimer’s disease and leukemia. Down’s syndrome is a lifelong disorder, but if care and support is given, children suffering from this disorder can grow up to lead a happy, healthy and productive life.

Adults with Down’s syndrome have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, a disorder that eventually leads to memory loss and poor judgement. Almost half of the people suffering from Down’s syndrome are likely to develop this condition as one reaches 50 years of age.

Even though Down’s syndrome cannot be prevented, it can be detected before childbirth. The health problems associated with Down’s syndrome are treatable, and there are many sources available that can offer help to the children and their families suffering from this condition.

Down’s syndrome occurs when a baby is formed inside the mother’s womb. The baby inherits the genetic material from his parents in the form of 46 chromosomes: 23 from the mother and 23 from the father. In most of the Down’s syndrome causes, the baby gets an added chromosome 21 making a total of 47 chromosomes instead of 46. So, it’s this extra genetic material that results in a delay in the physical development or the facial features. Because there is no particular reason why this deformation in the chromosomes takes place, scientists have not been able to find solutions to prevent this disorder. However, there are certain factors that increase the risk of a baby having the Down’s syndrome. These are:

1. Mother’s age. Doctor’s predict that women who give birth after 35 are at risk of giving birth to a baby having the Down’s syndrome.

2. Having a sibling that has Down’s syndrome.

3. Having a previous pregnancy in which the fetus had Down’s syndrome.

Down’s syndrome is generally diagnosed during pregnancy. A screening test is carried out that shows whether the baby is at risk of having the Down’s syndrome. The screening test includes a blood test and a fetal ultrasound after the first trimester.

Down’s syndrome has no cure, but there are many treatments that can help a patient lead an active, healthy and an independent life. When a baby is found to have Down’s syndrome, he/she is tested for other health problems, such as ear, eye or thyroid problems. It is better to diagnose these problems sooner so that they can be managed before things get worse. The doctor generally makes a treatment plan that works as the child gets older. For example, some of the children with Down’s syndrome heal with speech therapy and physical therapy. Counseling may also help your child deal with emotional issues and development of social skills. Children with Down’s syndrome are treated according to the extent of health problems associated with it. Some kids might have to rely on medications while more severe problems may also need surgical treatment.