What is Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is caused by having an extra chromosome( #21). This is the reason for the other common name for it, Trisomy 21. It is genetic and not caused by the parents in any way. There are over 6,000 babies born in the United States every year who are diagnosed with Down Syndrome, and many more in other countries around the world.

Some common physical traits of Down Syndrome are low muscle tone, which can have an affect on all areas of development. This cannot be cured, but can be helped with good physical therapy.Also, some facial features may be different, like a slightly wider face and a nose that is more flat than usual. The nasal passages are also typically smaller, causing more nasal problems such as recurring sinus infections. The eyes may slant slightly upward and may have small folds of skin at the inner corners. Vision problems are very common in children with Down Syndrome. The mouth may be smaller than usual and teeth may come in later and may come in a different order than usual. The ears are usually set lower on the head, and ear passages tend to be smaller than usual making them more susceptible to infections,and also making it difficult for the doctor to see inside the ear. This does improve with growth. People with Down Syndrome are normally shorter with the average height for an adult male being 5'2" and the average for an adult female being 4'9". Some other traits which are common are short thumbs and a large gap between the first and second toes.

Some other common problems that occur with DS are sensitive skin or eczema, vision and hearing problems,reflux,constipation, and celiac disease is common. One of the most common afflictions is heart problems which affect about half of all infants who are diagnosed with Down Syndrome.

People with DS are also intellectually disabled, although the degree to which each individual is affected varies from mild to severe.Most people who have Down Syndrome benefit from having all 3 therapies: physical, occupational, and speech. With these therapies, a good physician and medical care, and the love of their families and friends,most people with Down Syndrome can lead happy and productive lives.

This is a picture of my son who is 2 years old and has Down Syndrome. He has therapy every weekday (physical, occupational, and speech). He isn't walking yet, but he is a mega super crawler and can get just about anywhere he wants to. He has also figured out how to carry his favorite toys around with him while crawling. He is absolutely the sweetest little boy and has greatly enriched our lives.