Children With Down Syndrome Deserve Fullfilling Life
Raising Children with Down Syndrome can be just as rewarding as raising a baby without a disability, since these children are just as loving and full of personality as any other. However, there are some extra concerns parents may have. For example, half of the babies with Down syndrome have heart problems and most will require physical therapy to develop better muscle tone. Additionally, some babies suffer stomach or intestinal blockages or have problems swallowing. Some Down syndrome babies may have crossed eyes or cataracts or be more susceptible to colds, ear and sinus infections.
Children with this chromosomal disorder will have tribulations early on. Parents should be aware of the special-care needs for babies with Down syndrome as early as possible, to prepare themselves for the challenges that lie ahead. Some babies require medication to address a heart defect, while others require physical therapy sessions to help develop better muscle tone and coordination. Some syndrome babies have a difficult time learning to breastfeed at first, which is sometimes related to stomach or intestinal blockages. Eye, ear, nose, throat and thyroid problems are not uncommon, as is late teething. The main thing to keep in mind is that the baby will eventually get there, but patience and offering loving support are critical to the child’s development.
Children with Down syndrome often have physical therapy needs as well, but with parental guidance and encouragement, they can learn crucial skills. Babies with Down syndrome can strengthen muscles and improve coordination through directed play. A physical therapist can provide new parents with instructions. Many children learn to eat step-by-step, first hand-fed, then using their fingers, finally learning to use silverware. While learning to dress can take extra time and explanation, the Downs child can learn through practice and repetition. It helps stress the importance of grooming and hygiene by establishing a daily routine, gradually adding new tasks for the child to perform independently. While it seems like a lot of work at first, parents may find they enjoy being a special teacher, and that every small milestone is celebrated. Raising children with this chromosomal disorder encourages parents to embrace the small triumphs in life.
There are certain health risks for children with Down syndrome. About half of all Down syndrome babies are born with congenital heart defects and 60% suffer an eye disease, including cataracts (15%) and the need for corrective glasses or contact lenses (50%). Nearly 75% suffer hearing loss, sleep apnea and persistent ear infections. Other problems include thyroid disease (15%), gastrointestinal atresias (12%) and acquired hip dislocation (6%). Less than 1% of all cases report leukemia or Hirschsprung disease. Over time, adults with Down syndrome may suffer respiratory infections, heart disease, surgery for bowel obstruction or cataracts, hearing loss, epilepsy and osteoarthritis.
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