Down Syndrome Effects In some cases, certain Down syndrome effects, such as hypotonia, may be present at birth; others may not become evident until adulthood. The effects of this condition vary widely among individuals, and may be experienced in nearly every system in the body. Common Down syndrome effects can include thyroid problems, hearing problems, congenital heart disease, eye problems, and joint and muscle problems.

Babies and adults with Down syndrome can have physical problems, as well as intellectual disabilities. Every baby born with Down syndrome is different. In addition to the physical signs, some might have major birth defects or other medical problems. However, many people with Down syndrome live happy, productive lives well into adulthood. Still, some physical problems associated with Down syndrome include: A birth defect of the heart Stomach problems, such as a blocked small intestine Hearing problems Eye problems, such as cataracts or trouble seeing objects that are close by (far-sighted) Thyroid problems Skeletal problems

Can Down Syndrome be prevented? There is no known way to prevent the Down syndrome. However, infants and children with Down syndrome often will benefit from special programs that help to improve their physical and mental limitations. These include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and exercises for physical coordination. Children with Down syndrome usually also need extra help or attention in school.

Symptoms of Down's syndrome People with Down's syndrome tend to look different they typically have a flat facial profile and eyes that slant upwards. Other facial features include smaller ears, a flat back of the head and protruding tongue. Almost half of people affected have heart defects, some of which can be treated, some of which can't. Many also have gut problems, which can make eating difficult and increases the risk of problems such as constipation, and disorders of the thyroid gland.

Down's syndrome treatments There's no cure, but treatment of any accompanying health problems and support for learning difficulties allows many people with the syndrome to lead relatively normal and semi- independent lives. Others, however, need full-time care. Many people with the condition live well into adulthood, with an average life expectancy of around 60 years.

Down's syndrome risk factors The chance of having a baby with Down's syndrome increases with the age of the mother, especially over the age of 35. But as the majority of women have their children when they're younger, most babies with Down's syndrome are born to younger parents.

What can a child with Down syndrome do? Children with Down syndrome usually can do most things that any young child can do, such as walking, talking, dressing and being toilet- trained. However, they generally start learning these things later than unaffected children. The exact age that these developmental milestones are achieved cannot be predicted. However, early intervention programs beginning in infancy can help these children achieve their developmental milestones sooner.