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WHAT IS DOWN'S SYNDROME?

 

Down's syndrome is a genetic condition that causes a number of distinctive physical characteristics and a degree of learning disability. The extent of any learning difficulties varies from person to person and it is impossible to predict at birth what the abilities (and disabilities) of the baby will be.

 

The chance of having a baby with Down's syndrome increases as the mother gets older. The reason for this is not known. However, it must be remembered that more babies with Down's syndrome are born to younger women because of the higher number of births to these women.

 

Signs of Down's syndrome

 

Experienced doctors and midwives can diagnose Down's by recognizing subtle characteristics at birth. A blood test is then taken to check the number of chromosomes. The common signs include:

 

• Eyes slanting upwards and outwards, with the eyelids having an extra fold of skin, which appears to exaggerate the slant. 
• The back of the head may be flatter than average. 
• The tongue may appear too large for the mouth, which can inhibit feeding. 
• Looser muscles and joints than other babies. 
• Babies with Down's may have a single crease that runs across the palm of the hand (this can also be present in babies who don't have the condition). 
• Lower birthweight and slower growth rate than other babies. 

Why Down's syndrome occurs

 

Down's syndrome is caused by the presence of an additional chromosome, but it is not known why this extra chromosome occurs. It can come from either the mother or the father.

 

• Chromosomes are tiny particles that are present in every cell in our bodies. They carry the 'blue-print' for all the characteristics we inherit and influence everything about an individual, such as sex and eye colour. 
• There are 23 pairs of chromosomes in each cell, giving 46 chromosomes altogether. One chromosome in each pair comes from the mother, the other from the father. Chromosome pairs are numbered from one to 23 and each pair will be responsible for a different aspect of our physical and psychological make-up.
• Down's syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, making 47 chromosomes in total. The most common form of Down's syndrome is known as Trisomy 21. Instead of existing as a pair, there are three chromosomes in number 21.
• Nothing can be done before or after pregnancy to prevent or cause Down's syndrome. Mothers throughout the world give birth to Down's babies, regardless of their race, colour or quality of life.

Looking after a Down's syndrome baby.

Babies with Down's syndrome do need extra love and attention as they take longer to reach their developmental milestones. For example, more patience may be required when breastfeeding; he may take longer to learn to feed himself; he may not start walking until he is three; he may need additional support when he goes to school.

 

If you are a parent of a baby with Down's syndrome, remember that he is a baby first and foremost. He has his own unique personality and his own path in life to follow. You can help by being as supportive as possible, just as you would for any other child.

 

He may not have been the baby you were expecting and you may feel sorrow, anger, shock, guilt or shame. You may feel your world has changed irrevocably for the worse. This is all very normal. The overwhelming majority of new parents of a baby with Down's come to love their baby as much as any other.

 

A child with Down's syndrome will need extra care and support from the whole family. You may find that an older child becomes more compassionate if he has a sister or brother with Down's syndrome.

 

Health issues

 

There are a number of health problems associated with Down's syndrome. Although some are serious, most are easily treated with timely and appropriate medical intervention:

 

Chest and ear problems: children with Down's syndrome are prone to chest and ear infections. They may need hearing tests.

 

Thyroid problems: there is a higher chance of an underactive thyroid gland. Regular blood tests are taken to detect this.

 

Heart problems: 40 per cent of all babies born with Down's syndrome will have a heart defect. However, many of these are treatable, if detected early. Your baby will be examined by a paediatric cardiologist and undergo heart tests.

 

Down's in adulthood

 

Children with Down's syndrome can and do grow up to live long and fulfilled lives. Like everyone else, provided they are given the right support and opportunities to be independent and develop skills, Down's syndrome children can thrive. They are able to overcome many everyday challenges in school, further education, work, living independently in a hope of their own, and sustaining relationships.

 

For  More  Information:  Please  consult  your  physician  on  your  next  visit.