<p>Every year around 1.3 lakh babies are born with Down Syndrome in India. It is a lifelong condition that can cause both physical and intellectual disabilities. However, with proper care and support, children with Down Syndrome can lead happy, fulfilling lives. This guide provides an in-depth look into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management of Down Syndrome. It also offers practical advice on how to care for a child with Down Syndrome, emphasizing the importance of education, resources, and support.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Down Syndrome? </strong></h2>

<p>Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which a baby has an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is also known as trisomy 21 and is not caused by anything a parent did or didn&#39;t do. This extra genetic material can cause developmental and intellectual delays, as well as physical differences such as a small stature, a flat facial profile, and a single crease across the center of the palm. While Down syndrome cannot be cured, early interventions and medical care can help children with the condition lead healthy and fulfilling lives.</p>

<h2><strong>What Causes Down Syndrome? </strong></h2>

<p>Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when a baby has an extra copy of chromosome 21, resulting in a total of 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. This extra chromosome can cause physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms in babies with this condition. The exact cause of the extra chromosome is still unknown, but researchers believe it occurs randomly during cell division. There are screening and diagnostic tests available during pregnancy to detect Down syndrome, but neither can predict the full impact of the condition on a baby.</p>

<p>There are certain risk factors that can increase a baby&#39;s risk of Down Syndrome:</p>

<h3>1. Maternal age</h3>

<p>The most significant factor is the mother&#39;s age at the time of conception. Women who are <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/how-safe-is-pregnancy-after-35-25025?">35 years or older</a> when they become pregnant are more likely to have a pregnancy affected by Down Syndrome than women who become pregnant at a younger age. This is because the chances of chromosomal abnormalities increase as the mother&#39;s age advances.</p>

<h3>2. Genetics</h3>

<p>Down Syndrome is usually not inherited but rather caused by an error that occurs during cell division in the early <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/fetal-growth-and-development-during-pregnancy-200178?">stages of fetal development</a>. However, being carriers of genetic translocation of Down Syndrome can increase parents&#39; chance of passing Down Syndrome to their baby.</p>

<h3>3. Having a child with Down Syndrome</h3>

<p>Having a child with Down syndrome and having a translocation yourself can increase the likelihood of having another child with Down syndrome. To evaluate the chance of having a second child with Down syndrome, parents can seek guidance from a genetic counselor.</p>

<h2><strong>Symptoms of Down Syndrome </strong></h2>

<p>Each child with Down Syndrome is unique and may present a different set of signs and symptoms. Some children are healthy while some may have heart defects. That being said, children with Down Syndrome share some common features such as:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>small head</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>flattened facial profile and nose</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>small ears</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>upward slanting eyes</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>protruding tongue</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>short neck with excess skin at the back of the neck</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>short height</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>decreased or poor muscle tone</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>a single deep crease across the center of the palm</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Children with Down syndrome may also have cognitive development challenges, which can cause intellectual or developmental disabilities. While children with Down Syndrome may reach <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/baby-milestones-a-week-by-week-guide-to-your-babys-development-in-the-first-year-178146?">developmental milestones</a> such as sitting up, crawling, and walking, they tend to do so later than other children.</p>

<p>Babies with Down syndrome are usually smaller than other newborns at birth and tend to grow at a slower rate, remaining shorter than average. As they grow, toddlers and older kids may experience delays in speech and self-care skills such as feeding, dressing themselves, and using the toilet.</p>

<p>Some behavioral symptoms may include stubbornness, <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/signs-symptoms-of-adhd-in-children-210254?">difficulty paying attention</a>, and obsessive or compulsive behaviors. Irrespective of their distinct features and developmental delays, children with Down Syndrome have many abilities and with support and encouragement, they can grow up to be highly skilled and talented.</p>

<h2><strong>What Complications Can Down Syndrome Cause? </strong></h2>

<p>Children with Down syndrome may experience a range of medical and developmental complications. Some of the common complications include:</p>

<h3>1. Congenital Heart Defects</h3>

<p>Approximately 50% of children with Down syndrome are born with <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/congenital-heart-disease-symptoms-causes-treatment-215283?">congenital heart defects</a> that may require surgery or medication.</p>

<h3>2. Gastrointestinal Issues</h3>

<p>Digestive problems such as <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/constipation-in-babies-symptoms-and-cure-25970?">constipation</a>, <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/reflux-in-baby-symptoms-causes-treatment-13248?">reflux</a> and celiac disease are more common in children with Down syndrome.</p>

<h3>3. Respiratory Issues</h3>

<p>Children with Down syndrome have narrower air passages, making them more susceptible to <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/bronchitis-vs-bronchiolitis-193558?">respiratory infections</a> and sleep apnea.</p>

<h3>4. Thyroid Disorders</h3>

<p>Children with Down syndrome may have an increased risk of <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/thyroid-types-causes-symptoms-treatment-190417?">hypothyroidism</a>, which is when the thyroid gland doesn&#39;t produce enough hormones.</p>

<h3>5. Leukemia</h3>

<p>Children with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing leukemia, a type of blood cancer.</p>

<h3>6. Vision and Hearing Issues</h3>

<p>Children with Down syndrome may experience vision and hearing problems, such as cataracts, nearsightedness, and hearing loss.</p>

<h3>7. Obesity</h3>

<p>Studies have shown that individuals with Down Syndrome are more likely to experience overweight and obesity when compared to the general population.</p>

<h3>8. Alzheimer&#39;s Disease</h3>

<p>Individuals with Down syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer&#39;s disease at an earlier age.</p>

<h3>9. Spinal Problems</h3>

<p>Down syndrome can result in atlantoaxial instability (AAI), which is characterized by the misalignment of the top two vertebrae in the neck. This condition increases the possibility of spinal cord injury from overextension of the neck, posing a serious risk to individuals with Down syndrome.</p>

<p>It is important for children with Down syndrome to receive regular medical checkups and screenings to monitor and manage these potential complications.</p>

<h2><strong>How is Down Syndrome Diagnosed? </strong></h2>

<p>Down Syndrome can be diagnosed during pregnancy by performing prenatal screening tests or diagnostic tests. Prenatal screening tests can identify those at risk, while diagnostic tests can identify certain abnormalities but carry a small risk of miscarriage.</p>

<p>Screening tests for Down syndrome include:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/noninvasive-prenatal-testing-nipt-all-you-need-to-know-193160?">Non-invasive prenatal testing</a> (NIPT)</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Combined first-trimester screening</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Integrated screening</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/screening-for-down-syndrome-31630?">Quadruple screening </a></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Serum integrated screening</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Cell-free DNA screening</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Prenatal diagnostic tests for Down syndrome include:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/learn-what-is-chorionic-villus-sampling-cvs-and-al-25114?">Chorionic villus sampling</a> (CVS)</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/amniocentesis-meaning-risks-results-25194?">Amniocentesis</a></p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS)</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>How to Care for Your Child if They Have Down Syndrome? </strong></h2>

<p><a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/caring-for-a-baby-with-down-syndrome-12970">Raising a child with Down Syndrome</a> can be overwhelming and accompanied by a range of emotions such as loss, guilt, and fear of the unknown. However, connecting with other parents of children with Down Syndrome can help in coping with these concerns and finding ways to move forward. Moreover, many parents find that educating themselves about the condition can ease their fears and help them navigate the challenges that come with raising a child with Down Syndrome.</p>

<p>Here are some steps you can take to help raise your baby and improve their future outcomes:</p>

<h3>1. Early intervention</h3>

<p>Caring for a baby with Down syndrome requires special attention and care. Providing early intervention services such as physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy can help the baby achieve <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/baby-growth-stages-for-the-first-year-182826?">developmental milestones</a> and prevent problems in the long term.</p>

<h3>2. Educational options</h3>

<p>Children with Down syndrome benefit from appropriate education provided in inclusive settings. Inclusive education enables children with Down syndrome to access the same learning opportunities as their non-disabled peers. Additionally, most babies and young children with Down syndrome can and do attend childcare centers, playgroups, and preschool settings alongside children of the same age.</p>

<h3>3. Social and leisure activities</h3>

<p>It&#39;s important to set aside time for family outings and explore social activities in your community, like sports teams, music classes, and park district programs. With a few adjustments, children with Down syndrome can participate and enjoy these leisure activities.</p>

<h3>4. Encouraging independence</h3>

<p>Although your child&#39;s abilities may differ from those of their peers, they can still learn important life skills with your guidance and consistent practice. Tasks such as packing lunch, managing personal hygiene and clothing, and completing simple cooking and laundry tasks can be mastered with time and effort. With your encouragement and support, your child can gain independence and feel a sense of accomplishment in their daily activities.</p>

<h3>The Bottomline</h3>

<p>In conclusion, caring for a child with Down Syndrome can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. As a parent, it is important to educate oneself on the condition and to seek out resources and support. With patience, love, and specialized care, children with Down Syndrome can thrive and achieve their full potential.</p>

<p><strong>References</strong></p>

<p>1. Antonarakis SE, Skotko BG, Rafii MS, Strydom A, Pape SE, Bianchi DW. (2020). Down syndrome. Nat Rev Dis Primers.</p>

<p>2. Asim A, Kumar A, Muthuswamy S, Jain S, Agarwal S. (2015).&quot;Down syndrome: an insight of the disease&quot;. J Biomed Sci.</p>


This article explains the meaning, causes and symptoms of Down Syndrome. Additionally, we explain how it can be diagnosed during pregnancy and how to care for a baby with Down Syndrome.

Down Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Management | MyloFamily

Understanding Down Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

<>Mylo Editor

<p>The beautiful phase of pregnancy brings a lot of physical, mental, and emotional changes along with it. There will be a lot going on in your mind and body at the same time. Soon after the confirmed positive news of your pregnancy, you will start collecting all the required information about the changes that will come into your life in the next nine months. With all the excitement, you also get anxious and nervous about the journey. <strong>Below mentioned are some common fearful thoughts that will strike your mind and you must stay calm to combat all those fears:  </strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Miscarriage-</strong> The most common fear that&rsquo;ll haunt you in the first trimester is what if your pregnancy results in a miscarriage? A lot of physical and mental changes like nausea, morning sickness, fatigue, and stress will occur at the beginning of the pregnancy. You can discuss your concerns with an expert or the doctor and by having a healthy diet and supplements, you can deal with this fear. Although there is no sure-shot way to stop a miscarriage; still, you can lower the risk by avoiding unhealthy foods, alcohol, smoking, caffeine, etc.  </p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Birth defect in the baby-</strong> Your doctor will recommend you numerous screening tests and ultrasounds. Just ensure that you don&rsquo;t get lazy and skip those. You might get anxious during every single prenatal test but it is the only way and also the best way to diagnose the problem. This is so because diagnosis at an early stage will help you decide what&rsquo;s best for you and your baby. The best way to protect your baby&rsquo;s health is to eat multivitamins along with folic acid.   </p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Preterm labor-</strong> You might worry a lot about your unborn child and about labor and delivery. Your baby&rsquo;s growth and development are perfectly happening in the womb during the entire course of pregnancy. The risk of serious complications or developmental issues is less if the baby is born on the scheduled due date as recommended by your doctor. You must not miss your scheduled prenatal check-ups and adapt to a healthy lifestyle.   </p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Physical intimacy and relationship with your partner-</strong> You must be wondering that your relationship with your partner will change forever but it&rsquo;s not like that. Once the baby is home, you and your partner&rsquo;s priorities will change. You just have to give some time to your body to heal internally post-delivery. After a few months, you will snap back and will crave more sex. Your sex-life will be more satisfying than before and your relationship will also become stronger.   </p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Labor/Delivery-</strong> From the first week of your pregnancy, you&rsquo;ll start wondering about your delivery and labor. Most women wonder whether they&rsquo;ll have a C-section or a normal vaginal delivery. All you have to do is keep visiting your doctor regularly and openly discuss all your fears with the doctor. The gynecologist will inform you in advance about your due date and the procedure of delivery.  </p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p><strong>Chances of developing gestational diabetes or preeclampsia</strong>- From the first day, your doctor must have advised you to eat healthily, go for a walk and say goodbye to stress. This helps in preventing your body from such ailments. </p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Worrying affects your and baby&rsquo;s health adversely so just take care of yourselves and enjoy your pregnancy! </p>


Top 6 Fears during Pregnancy and Why you shouldn't worry about them?

<p>Yes, it is possible for your toddler&#39;s hearing to be affected by loud volume. However, the amount of damage depends on the volume of noise, and the length of time that your child is exposed to it.<br />
<br />
Research suggests that loud noise at or above 85 decibels can damage a child&#39;s or an adult&#39;s hearing. If you have to speak up to be heard over the sound, or if you can&#39;t be heard even if you are only an arm&#39;s length away, then it is considered as hazardous noise.<br />
<br />
Children these days, are often exposed to loud volumes from television, mp3 players, noisy musical toys, video games and smartphone apps.<br />
<br />
Some common children&#39;s toys too, such as rattles, toy phones and guns, are capable of generating unsafe intensities ranging from 110 decibels to 150 decibels. Children have a tendency to hold such toys closer to their ears which increases the intensity. However, the danger from these kind of toys is usually underestimated.<br />
<br />
That apart, many children start using personal listening devices such as headphones or earphones, right from a very young age. However, researchers have determined that listening to a portable music player with headphones at 60 per cent of their potential volume for one hour a day is relatively safe.<br />
<br />
That said, hearing loud volume with high intensity may cause some issues in children:<br />
<br />
<strong>Temporary or permanent hearing loss</strong><br />
The inner part of the ear is lined with very fine hair cells (nerve endings) that turn sound into electric impulses that are then sent to the brain. Loud noise can damage these cells and may cause hearing loss. The ear cannot get used to loud noise, nor can it be ignored.<br />
<br />
With regular exposure to loud noise temporary or even permanent hearing loss may occur. This hearing loss cannot be reversed.<br />
<br />
Studies on teenagers found that, listening to portable media devices through ear buds, at high volume levels (above 85 decibels) for long periods of time can cause hearing damage. The average maximum sound from some portable devices has been measured at 115 decibels, a level that can cause hearing loss to listeners of all ages.<br />
<br />
Hearing loss can also be caused by one-off exposures to very loud sounds. Even a brief exposure to high decibel levels can be harmful. The louder the sound, the shorter the time period before hearing damage occurs.<br />
<br />
<strong>Negative effect on child&#39;s language development</strong><br />
It is also important to realise that constant background noise from a TV, for example, can negatively affect your child&#39;s language development. This is because babies find it difficult to differentiate between sounds.<br />
<br />
Also, toddlers tend to play and interact less with adults when the television is on or when they are busy with other devices. This means that they tend to talk less to people around. Your child&#39;s vocabulary is linked to the amount of time that she spends talking to others.<br />
<br />
<strong>Shorter attention spans</strong><br />
Research indicates that children living in an environment where the television is on most of the times may have shorter attention spans leading to lower cognitive and intellectual development.<br />
<br />
The best you could do is to limit your child listening to high volume, especially for a longer time. Here&#39;s what you could do:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Avoid giving devices to your child at a very young age, and limit her television time.<br />
	 </li>
	<li>If you&#39;re forced to give her a device, check if it has a volume limiting feature. Use it, and turn the maximum sound well down.<br />
	 </li>
	<li>If your toddler uses headphones or earphones that have a separate volume adjusting button, make sure that the sound is turned well down.<br />
	 </li>
	<li>If you are unable to bring down the volume, it may be best to keep your child away from the devices. You could keep her away from the room where the television is being watched, for example.<br />
	 </li>
	<li>You could also ask your doctor if hearing protectors (ear defenders) may be recommended for your child. Ear defenders reduce excessive noise without shutting out other sounds.</li>
</ul>


Can loud volume affect my toddler's ears?

<>Priyanka | Mylo Editor

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