Down syndrome can be termed as a chromosomal disorder resulting from errors in the cell division process. According to research, down syndrome impacts an individual’s physical growth and cognitive ability. In addition, this syndrome can increase your odds of developing other health issues. Research shows that mothers will more than thirty-five years have a higher probability of having a baby with this syndrome. Also, genetic translocation and family history are major factors that can lead to down syndrome.
Symptoms of Down Syndrome
There are several signs that’ll help you identify this syndrome in your baby. Below are signs and symptoms of down syndrome:
– Poor muscle tone
– Short neck
– Abnormal facial features, especially flat facial
– slanting eyes, particularly upwards
– Bulging tongue
– Small ears and head
According to scientific research, a child suffering from this syndrome will develop more slowly. The development disability ranges from moderate to mild. Social and mental development delays are associated with several issues, such as slow learning capabilities, impulsive behavior, short attention, and poor judgment. In addition, a baby with this syndrome will have a higher risk of developing health issues, such as;
– Obesity
– Hearing loss
– Congenital heart defects
– Leukemia
– Hip problems
– Poor vision
– Cataracts
– Dementia
– Sleep apnea
– Alzheimer’s disease
– Hypothyroidism
People suffering from the down syndrome are more prone to infections, such as skin infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections.
Down Syndrome Screening During Pregnancy
1. First Trimester
A medical practitioner opts for blood tests and ultrasound evaluation to identify this syndrome.
2. Second Trimester
QMS( Quadruple Marker Screen) and ultrasound tests are used to analyze and evaluate the presence of this syndrome in the spinal cord and brain. This test is done during the fifteenth week of pregnancy.
Other tests include cordocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, and amniocentesis.
Treating Down Syndrome
Basically, down syndrome has no cure. There are programs designed to help people suffering from this syndrome, thus helping them attain cognitive abilities, social skills, sensory skills, motor skills, and self-help skills.
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