Therapy
Oct 03, 2018 · Therapies for Down Syndrome Speech-language Therapy. Speech-language therapy addresses communication and language skills by focusing on... Physical Therapy. Physical therapy focuses on improving how a person moves. Because children and adults with Down... Occupational Therapy. Like the name ...
How do you cure Down syndrome?
Treatment throughout the course of an individual’s life will involve regular medical check-ups, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, nutritional needs and counselling. Regular medical check-ups are important for identifying, managing and monitoring an individual with Down syndrome’s overall health condition. Regular check-ups are important from the time of …
Is there any treatment or cure for Down syndrome?
Treatment for Down syndrome varies. It typically starts in early childhood. The purpose is for you and your child with Down syndrome to learn to cope with the condition, as well as treat what physical and cognitive (thinking) challenges arise. Your providers may help you develop a care team for your family member with Down syndrome.
What can be done for a person with Down syndrome?
Jun 21, 2018 · Using a mouse model for Down syndrome, NICHD researchers showed that by administering neuroprotective peptides (small protein sub units) to mice before birth, they perform better on memory and learning tasks as adults.
What are the treatments and therapies for Down syndrome?
Down's syndrome is a genetic chromosome problem. Someone with Down's syndrome has an extra copy of chromosome 21 in the cells of their body.
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Are there any treatments or cures for Down syndrome?
Down syndrome cannot be cured. Early treatment programs can help improve skills. They may include speech, physical, occupational, and/or educational therapy.
What is one treatment for Down syndrome?
There is no specific treatment for Down syndrome. People who have the condition will receive care for any health problems, as other people do. However, healthcare professionals may recommend additional health screening for issues common to people with the condition.
What happens if Down syndrome test is positive?
A screen positive result means that you are in a group with an increased likelihood of having a baby with an open neural tube defect. If the result is screen positive, you will be offered an ultrasound examination after 16 weeks of pregnancy, and possibly an amniocentesis.
What causes Down syndrome pregnancy?
Down syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division called “nondisjunction.” Nondisjunction results in an embryo with three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two. Prior to or at conception, a pair of 21st chromosomes in either the sperm or the egg fails to separate.
How to help people with Down syndrome?
Participate in social and leisure activities. Take time for family outings and look in your community for social activities such as park district programs, sports teams or ballet classes. Although some adaptations may be required, children and adults with Down syndrome can enjoy social and leisure activities.
What to do when you learn your child has Down syndrome?
Coping and support. When you learn your child has Down syndrome, you may experience a range of emotions, including anger, fear, worry and sorrow. You may not know what to expect, and you may worry about your ability to care for a child with a disability. The best antidote for fear and worry is information and support.
What tests can be done to determine if a baby has Down syndrome?
Diagnostic tests can identify or diagnose whether your baby has Down syndrome. Your health care provider can discuss the types of tests, advantages and disadvantages, benefits and risks, and the meaning of your results. If appropriate, your provider may recommend that you talk to a genetics counselor.
How does early intervention help children with Down syndrome?
Early intervention for infants and children with Down syndrome can make a major difference in improving their quality of life. Because each child with Down syndrome is unique, treatment will depend on individual needs. Also, different stages of life may require different services.
When is integrated screening done?
The integrated screening test is done in two parts during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. The results are combined to estimate the risk that your baby has Down syndrome.
What is nuchal translucency?
This is known as a nuchal translucency screening test. When abnormalities are present, more fluid than usual tends to collect in this neck tissue. Using your age and the results of the blood test and the ultrasound, your doctor or genetic counselor can estimate your risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
Is screening for Down syndrome a part of prenatal care?
Screening for Down syndrome is offered as a routine part of prenatal care . Although screening tests can only identify your risk of carrying a baby with Down syndrome, they can help you make decisions about more-specific diagnostic tests.
What do kids with Down syndrome need?
Most kids with Down syndrome need therapies of various types. Some are focused on helping patients reach physical milestones at the same rate as those who don't have the disorder. Others are aimed at helping them become as independent as possible when they reach adulthood.
What is the deformity of the duodenum?
Some babies with Down syndrome are born with a deformity of the duodenum (a tube that allows digested food to pass from the stomach into the small bowel) called duodenal atresia. 6 It requires surgery to be repaired but isn't considered an emergency if there are other more pressing medical issues. Duodenal atresia can be dealt with temporarily with a tube placed to decompress swelling in the stomach and intravenous fluids to treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that often result from the condition.
What is early intervention?
Early intervention, according to the NDSS, is a "systematic program of therapy, exercises, and activities designed to address developmental delays that may be experienced by children with Down syndrome or other disabilities. ". 1 Early intervention typically includes these three types of therapy:
Can Down syndrome cause hearing loss?
Speech therapy: Children with Down syndrome often have small mouths and slightly enlarged tongues—features that can make it hard for them to speak clearly. These problems can be made worse in children with hypotonia because low muscle tone can affect the face. Hearing loss also can affect speech development.
What is the name of the defect in the heart that interferes with normal blood flow?
Certain birth defects are common in babies with Down syndrome. One of these is an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), in which a hole in the heart interferes with normal blood flow. 5 An AVSD is treated surgically by patching the hole and, if necessary, repairing any valves in the heart that may not close completely.
Can Down syndrome be treated with medication?
Many of the health problems that affect someone with Down syndrome can be managed with medication—typically the same medication that would be given to a person who doesn't have Down syndrome.
Is there any treatment for Down syndrome?
There is no treatment for Down syndrome itself, but there are conditions associated with Down syndrome that require treatment. Health conditions that affect some people with Down syndrome include heart defects, gastrointestinal tract deformities, thyroid disorders, hearing difficulties, and vision problems.
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a lifelong condition. Services early in life will often help babies and children with Down syndrome to improve their physical and intellectual abilities. Most of these services focus on helping children with Down syndrome develop to their full potential.
What is the National Association for Down Syndrome?
The National Association for Down Syndrome supports all persons with Down syndrome in achieving their full potential. They seek to help families, educate the public, address social issues and challenges, and facilitate active participation. National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) external icon.
What is the extra chromosome in Down syndrome?
Babies with Down syndrome have an extra copy of one of these chromosomes, chromosome 21. A medical term for having an extra copy of a chromosome is ‘trisomy.’. Down syndrome is also referred to as Trisomy 21. This extra copy changes how the baby’s body and brain develop, which can cause both mental and physical challenges for the baby.
How many chromosomes are there in a baby?
They determine how a baby’s body forms and functions as it grows during pregnancy and after birth. Typically, a baby is born with 46 chromosomes. Babies with Down syndrome have an extra copy of one of these chromosomes, chromosome 21. A medical term for having an extra copy ...
What is the extra chromosome 21?
The extra chromosome 21 leads to the physical features and developmental challenges that can occur among people with Down syndrome. Researchers know that Down syndrome is caused by an extra chromosome, but no one knows for sure why Down syndrome occurs or how many different factors play a role.
How many babies have Down syndrome?
Down syndrome remains the most common chromosomal condition diagnosed in the United States. Each year, about 6,000 babies born in the United States have Down syndrome. This means that Down syndrome occurs in about 1 in every 700 babies. 1.
Do people with Down syndrome have birth defects?
Many people with Down syndrome have the common facial features and no other major birth defects. However, some people with Down syndrome might have one or more major birth defects or other medical problems. Some of the more common health problems among children with Down syndrome are listed below. 8
What are the symptoms of Down syndrome?
Other medical problems. Your child may also have other less common issues that need treatment, such as: 1 Blockage in the intestine. Some babies with Down syndrome get Hirschsprung ’s disease, where part of the intestine gets blocked. This is treated with surgery that removes part of the intestine. 2 Infections. Babies with Down syndrome also have weaker immune systems, so they may get sick more often. There’s no treatment for this, but it means that getting vaccines on time is even more important. 3 Thyroid problems. The thyroid makes hormones your body need. In kids with Down syndrome, it sometimes doesn’t make enough. If that happens, your child will take medicine to help.
What is early intervention?
Early Intervention. Most states offer programs that provide a range of services for children up to 3 years old. These programs can boost your child’s physical and mental growth. They typically have therapists and teachers who are specially trained to help kids learn a variety of skills, such as how to:
Can Down syndrome cause hearing loss?
Many children with Down syndrome have hearing loss in one or both ears. Because of that, your child will likely have regular visits with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor to catch any issues early on. Sometimes hearing problems are caused by fluid build-up in the ears.
Can adenoids cause sleep apnea?
Sometimes, larger-than-normal tonsils and adenoids cause sleep apnea. In this case, your doctor may suggest surgery to remove them. Leukemia. Children with Down syndrome are at a 10- to 20-fold increase for developing this blood cancer. But the risk is still at 2%.
Do kids with Down syndrome go to school?
Many kids with Down syndrome go to their neighborhood schools along with all the other kids. This can be great not only for your child, but for the other children as well. Your child also has the right to get services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which starts at age 3.
What is the best treatment for Down syndrome?
Physical Therapy . Physical therapy focuses on improving how a person moves. Because children and adults with Down Syndrome commonly have poor muscle tone and smaller hands, physical therapy can allay any difficulties caused by these traits.
What is the best way to teach children with Down syndrome?
Touchscreen tablets and computers are useful for children with Down Syndrome who struggle with performing fine motor movements. Educational software approaches learning via interaction and implementing sight, sound, and touch, which can make lessons more accessible and appealing.
How does early intervention help children with Down syndrome?
Even before a child with Down Syndrome reaches school age, various therapies can help.
How does speech therapy help children with Down syndrome?
The overall goal is to improve the child’s ability to communicate. One thing to watch out for in particular is hearing loss. Due to anatomical differences in children with Down Syndrome, they are prone to fluid retention behind the eardrum that can cause hearing loss. Even though the fluid can be drained, this sometimes-chronic condition exemplifies how a child’s learning of auditory language can be disrupted. The result is, of course, life-long difficulties in speech and understanding. Communication takes many forms, and your child’s specific needs will shape what is stressed during therapy sessions.
What does an occupational therapist do?
Unlike physical therapists, occupational therapists work on improving fine motor skills and the performance of daily tasks like getting dressed, brushing one’s teeth, and eating. As the child gets older, the focus will shift to skills like writing and using a computer.
Is there a cure for Down syndrome?
While there is no cure for Down Syndrome, there are therapies, treatments, and educational support available to improve the quality of life of those affected. The exact course of treatment will depend on the individual, taking into account the person’s age, overall health, environment, and personal strengths and limitations.
What is the treatment for Down syndrome?
Treatment throughout the course of an individual’s life will involve regular medical check-ups, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupa tional therapy, nutritional needs and counselling. Regular medical check-ups are important for identifying, managing and monitoring an individual with Down syndrome’s overall health condition. ...
What is the purpose of a comprehensive treatment plan?
Once diagnosed and all relevant checks and tests have been conducted, a doctor will put together a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure that a child remains as healthy as possible as he or she grows. Different stages will require different phases of treatment and services.
Why is it important to have a regular eye checkup?
Regular check-ups are important from the time of birth, and throughout a person’s life. During the first year, eye problems in particular are common and will be carefully assessed during check-ups. Many with Down syndrome have a higher chance of developing certain health problems and serious medical conditions.
What is a baby's physical exam?
During the physical examination, a baby will also be assessed for any obvious signs of potential problems. A baby with Down syndrome will be tested for medical problems, particularly with the heart, thyroid and eyes.
Can birth defects be corrected?
Many birth defects can be corrected through surgery which can become costly. Where parents can, seek out medical health insurance which will help to cover some of the necessary health costs. It may be necessary for considerably more medical check-ups for a child with Down syndrome than others.
Why is speech therapy important?
During early stages, speech therapy and physical therapy are critical and can help to ensure that a baby / child develops sufficiently enough to better enhance their quality of life during adulthood. It will take time and patience from everyone involved, but a child will learn to master a variety of skills.
Can you raise a child with special needs?
Some choose to place their child in foster care or give a baby up for adoption. Others choose to raise their child as best they can.
What is Down syndrome assistance?
People with Down syndrome will likely need assistance throughout their lives. In addition to ongoing therapies, this could include help with education, employment and living independently. A variety of organizations offer resources to help educate and empower people living with Down syndrome and their families.
How do people with Down syndrome live?
Many traits and conditions in people with Down syndrome are manageable with treatment and therapies. Medical care, support and education help them throughout their lives. Like anyone else, people with Down syndrome go to school, work, have meaningful relationships and can lead healthy and active lives.
Why does Down syndrome occur?
Down syndrome occurs because of changes in the way cells in chromosome 21 divide. Every person with Down syndrome has an extra amount of this chromosome in some or all of their cells. In the most common type of Down syndrome, trisomy 21, the condition occurs randomly and isn’t inherited.
What is the most common genetic disorder in the U.S.?
Down syndrome, the most common chromosome-related genetic condition in the U.S., affects development of the brain and body. People with Down syndrome face physical and mental challenges, but can lead full and happy lives.
How many chromosomes are there in Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder. Most babies are born with 23 pairs of chromosomes within each cell for a total of 46. A chromosome is a structure that contains genes, which are made up of your DNA. Genes determine how you form and develop growing in the womb and after birth.
What is the most common type of Down syndrome?
Trisomy 21: The term “trisomy” means having an extra copy of a chromosome. The most common type of Down syndrome, trisomy 21, occurs when a developing baby has three copies of chromosome 21 in every cell instead of the typical two copies. This type makes up 95% of the cases.
What is the test for Down syndrome?
At birth, providers look for the physical signs of Down syndrome. To confirm the diagnosis, a blood test called a karyotype is done. In this test, the a small sample of blood is taken and studied under a microscope to see if an extra amount of chromosome 21 is present.
How do neuroprotective peptides help with Down syndrome?
Using a mouse model for Down syndrome, NICHD researchers showed that by administering neuroprotective peptides (small protein sub units) to mice before birth, they perform better on memory and learning tasks as adults. The peptides, NAP and SAL, are sub units of two proteins that are important in brain development because they enhance the ability of brain cells to receive and transmit signals, and enable them to survive. The mice in the study had an extra copy of mouse chromosome 16, which has counterparts to 55% of the genes on human chromosome 21. Mice with the extra chromosomal material that were treated with NAP and SAL in the womb learned as well as mice that did not have the extra chromosome and significantly faster than mice with the extra chromosome that were treated with saline solution (placebo).
What is the most common chromosomal cause of mild to moderate intellectual disability?
Named after John Langdon Down, the first physician to describe the syndrome systematically, Down syndrome is the most frequent chromosomal cause of mild to moderate intellectual disability. It occurs in all ethnic and economic groups. People with the syndrome also are at a greater risk for many other conditions, such as congenital heart disease, hearing loss, leukemia, and dementia and memory loss similar to Alzheimer disease.
What is Consortium members?
Consortium members, who represent public and private organizations, work to avoid duplication of research efforts and to inform the Down syndrome community of research advances. In addition to the NICHD, the Consortium includes the following organizations (in alphabetical order): American Academy of Pediatrics.
What is DS Connect?
In 2013, the Consortium launched its Down syndrome registry, DS-Connect ®, which facilitates contacts and information sharing among people with Down syndrome and their family members, researchers, and parent and support groups safely and confidentially.
What is the IDDB?
Some of the Institute's work related to Down syndrome is supported through its Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Branch (IDDB). A key focus for the IDDB is exploring treatments for Down syndrome, including agents that improve intellectual development and cognitive performance.
Is memantine used for Alzheimer's?
For example, researchers currently are studying the use of the drug memantine, which supports cognition in mice and is approved for treating Alzheimer's dementia in humans, to improve the cognitive abilities of young adults with Down syndrome.
What Is Down Syndrome?
How Many Babies Are Born with Down Syndrome?
Types of Down Syndrome
Causes and Risk Factors
Specialist to consult
Diagnosis
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends offering the option of screening tests and diagnostic tests for Down syndrome to all pregnant women, regardless of age. 1. Screening testscan indicate the likelihood or chances that a mother is carrying a baby with Down syndrome. But these tests can't tell for sure or diagnose wheth...
Screening Tests
Diagnostic Tests
Other Health Problems
Treatments
Other Resources
- Thanks to advances in technology, there is an ever-growing array of items that can help people with Down syndrome negotiate their individual challenges more easily and successfully. Some—like hearing aids and glasses—are the same devices that are useful for people who do not have Down syndrome but who share certain concerns that are common among th...