Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects intellectual and physical development. Here are some common signs and symptoms of Down syndrome:
Physical characteristics: People with Down syndrome often have characteristic physical features, such:
- A flat facial profile
- A flat nose bridge.
- A small nose
- Almond-shaped eyes with an upward slant
- A short neck.
- Small ears, hands and feet.
- A protruding tongue
- Short fingers
- Stubby hands
- Weak muscle tone at birth.
- Small pinky finger that points inward towards the thumb.
- One crease in the palm of their hand (palmar crease).
- Shorter-than-average height.
As your child grows, additional symptoms can arise because of the way that their body developed in the uterus, including:
- Dental problems.
- Being more prone to infections or illnesses.
- Obstructive sleep apnea.
Intellectual disability: People with Down syndrome have intellectual disability that ranges from mild to moderate. This may affect their ability to:
- Learn
- Understand
- Use language
- Play (social and emotional skills)
- Ability to perform everyday tasks.
Delays in physical development: Infants and children with Down syndrome may have delays in reaching developmental milestones. As a result, it may take your child longer to do the following things:
- Toilet training.
- Speaking their first words.
- Crawling
- Taking their first steps.
- Eating food independently.
Heart defects: Many people with Down syndrome are born with heart defects, which can range from simple problems that resolve on their own to more serious conditions that require surgery.
Hearing and vision problems: Some individuals with Down syndrome may have hearing and vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or problems with the structure of the eye.
Thyroid problems: People with Down syndrome may be at higher risk of developing problems with their thyroid gland, which helps regulate metabolism.
Behavioral symptoms of Down syndrome could include:
- Stubbornness and tantrums.
- Difficulty paying attention.
- Obsessive or compulsive behaviors.
It’s important to note that these are common signs and symptoms, and not everyone with Down syndrome will experience all of them. The severity of the condition can vary from person to person. If you suspect your child has Down syndrome, it’s important to seek a medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis.