Down Syndrome Effects

Down Syndrome is a chromosomal disorder that is a result of the presence of an extra 21st chromosome. The British doctor, John Langdon Down described the syndrome in 1866 and hence it is named as the Down syndrome. It manifests a wide range of effects in children with this disorder. Let us look at these effects in detail.

Down Syndrome Effects on the Physique
Children with a Down syndrome exhibit major or minor differences in their physical structure. They have a single instead of double crease along one or both the palms. Those suffering from Down syndrome have shorter limbs, a poor muscle tone and an abnormally larger space between the first and the second toes. Almond-shaped eyes; flat-bridged nose, protruding tongue and a small oral cavity form the facial features of children with a Down syndrome.

Effects of Down Syndrome on the Susceptibility to Diseases
Children suffering from Down syndrome have a greater risk of heart diseases. They are at a risk for congenital heart diseases and gastroesophageal reflux disease. They may have to suffer from frequent ear infections. Sleep apnea and thyroid problems are common among children with Down syndrome. Epilepsy, leukemia and disorders of the immune system are among the less common effects of Down syndrome.

Effects of Down Syndrome on the Mental Ability
Many children with Down syndrome are mentally retarded. Their cognitive development varies. There is a delay in acquiring speech and fine motor skills. Their language and communication skills are very different from those of the children without the Down syndrome. They are recognizably inarticulate in their language and communication skills. Their emotional and intellectual growth is often retarded. Children with Down syndrome lack in social abilities. Some may not be able to cope up with complex thinking that is required in the study of certain subjects. Some may achieve the complex thought process pretty much later. Children with Down syndrome show marked learning disabilities.

Some other Down Syndrome Effects
There is a reduction in fertility among both men and women suffering from Down syndrome. However, there have been three recorded instances of men with Down syndrome becoming fathers. People with Down syndrome have a comparatively lower risk of getting fatal cancers. Science has not yet found a clear reason for this. But the reduced incidences of cancers in patients of Down syndrome may be the result of tumor-suppressor genes in chromosome 21. Less risk of cancers might be because those with Down syndrome are less exposed to environmental factors. These people are also less prone to fall prey to diabetic retinopathy and the hardening of arteries.

Down syndrome can be identified during pregnancy or at birth. A healthy environment is all they need. After detection of Down syndrome, the child should undergo proper medical treatment. Parents must understand their child's problems and provide him/her with suitable assistance. Considering each case of Down syndrome individually is important, as the effects of this syndrome vary per person. Those with Down syndrome should be shown care and concern. Support from parents and educational aids can help make their lives better.

Those with Down syndrome are deprived of some of the pleasures of life but modern developments in science have provided them with some hope. After all, every dark cloud has a silver lining.