Down Syndrome-A Guide for Parents
Is your Child diagnosed with Down Syndrome? Down Syndrome affects 1/1000 children in U.S. Are you wondering how to cope with this condition? Here is a guide for you so that you may become clear about your next strategy.
What causes Down Syndrome?
Human beings are made of cells. Each cell of your body contains 46 chromosomes. Chromosomes are thread-like structures with all the information required for the functioning and development of your body.
However, there is one extra chromosome in Down syndrome, 21st; hence, this condition is also called trisomy 21. It is a genetic condition, meaning it has nothing to do with anything you had done or not done before or during pregnancy.
Why my Child has Down Syndrome
As stated earlier, nothing on your part caused the Down Syndrome in your Child. However, Scientists have discovered some factors that increase the likelihood of the occurrence of Down Syndrome. These are as follows:
- Advanced maternal age, significantly above 35 years
- A sibling with Down Syndrome or other chromosomal disorder
- Parents with a chromosomal disorder
What does Down Syndrome look like?
All people with Down Syndrome show similar features that distinguish them from others. These features include:
- A flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose
- Almond-shaped eyes that slant upwards
- A short neck
- Relatively small ears
- A tongue that tends to stick out of the mouth
- Tiny white spots on the iris of the eye
- Relatively small hands and feet
- A single crease across the palm also called a palmer crease,
- Little pinky fingers that sometimes curve towards the thumb
- Poor muscle tone or loose joints
- Relatively shorter height
What problems can a Down Syndrome Child face?
Children with Down Syndrome present with many associated medical conditions; therefore, you need to be vigilant to look out for the following conditions in your Child:
- Heart problems present at birth
- Thyroid problems
- Gastro problems, e.g., constipation, gastroesophageal reflux and celiac disease
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Intelligence Quotient lying between mildly to moderately low ranges
- Speech delay
Can Down Syndrome be diagnosed before birth?
Yes, Down Syndrome is detectable in pregnancy. You can go for a simple screening test in 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy and then plan further for the baby. This test can also be performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Which professional to see for Down Syndrome?
Children with Down Syndrome may have multiple issues, such as medical, motor and speech issues. Depending on the problems your child is facing, you may need to consult a:
- Speech and Language Pathologist
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational therapist
- Psychologist
Finding Hope in Your Child’s Condition
Down Syndrome is a lifelong condition. You and your child will have to live with it. But with difficulty comes ease. These children can live up to 60 years old. Each Down Child have their abilities. They are highly empathetic and have good social understanding. They are amicable. They are not dependent on anyone for daily living. If trained properly, they can take care of themselves independently. With a preference for visual learning, they can be taught many things easily.
Bottom line
It may be a shock to know your child has Down Syndrome. But the first step you can take to have an incredible journey with your Child is to accept him as he is. With proper support and the right intervention, your child will be your best. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you find it overwhelming to raise a Downs Child.