Health Matters

Because they have an extra copy of the 21st chromosone in every cell of their bodies, babies and children with Down Syndrome typically experience more health problems. However, there is a tremendous variation in the occurence and severity of many of the conditions. It is important for parents to be aware of the possibility of their child experiencing certain conditions, so that early detection, and appropriate treatment can begin as quickly as possible.

One of the most common conditions affecting almost all children with Down Syndrome is Hypotonia, also known as Low Muscle Tone. This term does not mean your child has a lack of muscle strength. Hypotonia means low tone of the muscle in its resting state, and affects all muscles, including those of the digestive tract. The result is not only a delay in gross motor development, for example, crawling and walking, but also causes constipation and gastric reflux.

Babies with Down Syndrome are more likely to be affected by a partial or total blockage of the intestine. This causes vomiting which becomes more severe over time.An ultrasound check of the digestive tract is usually performed shortly after birth, as a routine precaution. Around 70-80% of all infants with Down Syndrome have some degree of Gastroesophageal Reflux GER. Their low muscle tone allows food to move back up the esophagus, causing discomfort and frequent spitting up. Medication is usually successful in treating reflux until the child outgrows the condition.

Heart defects are a major cause for concern. Studies show that 40-60% of infants with DS have some type of heart defect, the most common being those of the walls of the chambers of the heart. These conditions can vary from mild defects that correct themselves, to very severe, requiring immediate surgery. Some newborns show no apparant signs of a heart problem until weeks after birth. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that every newborn baby with Down Syndrome should receive a through evaluation by a cardiologist soon after birth.

Young adults with Down Syndrome may also be at risk of developing heart problems, even those with no previous history. Recent studies have shown that problems with valve prolapse and aortic regurgitation can occur without warning. It is recommended that by the age of 18, all young adults with DS be evaluated by a cardiologist.

Orthopedic problems are also common in children with Down Syndrome. They are mainly due to the loose ligaments that allow bones to move in ways they are not supposed to move. One of the most serious of these problems is Atlantoaxial Instability - AI, which is caused by excessive movement between the first and second vertebrae in the neck, creating the risk of spinal cord damage. This condition can be detected by X-ray, which should be done around the time a child turns three. It is treated by surgical fusion of the two vertebrae. Getting your child moving is very important. Long before they can walk, babies need lots of help to begin exploring their environment. Even small children will benefit from working on a therapy ball and experiencing different types of movement, rocking, dancing with a parent, swings and slides. A valuable site for parents and professionals is Down Syndrome: Health Issues This award winning site offers a host of information on medical and developmental issues. It also includes a chapter by Dr. Libby Kumin on speech and language intervention.

Good nutrition is also important for every child.

Although there are many possible conditions that affect children with DS, most children lead busy active lives. Excellent medical care with an emphasis on prevention is the key. As your child gets older they are usually able to participate in a variety of sports and activities. Swimming, horse back riding and dance are all great for building muscle and increasing stamina.

Some children with Down syndrome also exhibit symptoms of ADD-ADHD. This is a difficult condition to accurately diagnose as many other conditions can also trigger symptoms very similar to ADD. If your child has a very short attention span, seems unable to sit and attend to a task, is impulsive and reckless it is worth checking out the possibility of ADD-ADHD.

As most people with Down syndrome have some degree of compromised immunity, it is even more crucial to take every possible precaution to keep your home healthy. There are many sources of potential problems, many of which you may not even be aware of. One area that is often overlooked is the chemicals found in your furniture. A particularly harmful group are the brominated fire retardants, commonly known as BFR's. Although they are meant to make our homes safer, BFR's have been linked to many problems. For a more detailed discussion of these problems and ways to avoid them please read avoiding flame retardants.

There are many easy and fun activities to help your child work on their low muscle tone problems. Most of these will utilize objects you have around the house. For example, play dough is an excellent activity for children and you can use a rolling pin to roll the dough, then use cookie cutters to make shapes. Cutting up paper into large shapes, or mark lines and have your child cut along the lines. Keep a jar of old buttons and laces for fun lacing and stringing projects. Clothes pins are great fun for inventing all kinds of easy projects, whilst developing the important pincer grip of the thumb and first finger. For older children use a hole punch and have them make decorative patterns or even make their own design for greeting cards. Most children love to make cards for their family and friends. Use scissors, glue, markers and hole punch's to develop skills, whilst making fun and personalized cards is a great activity for everyone.