Down Syndrome Babies: An Introduction
When parents are told that their newborn baby has
Down syndrome, it is not unusual for them to have feelings of sadness and disappointment. Many parents report that at the time their baby is first diagnosed with Down syndrome (and during the weeks that follow), they feel overwhelmed by feelings of loss and
anxiety.
While caring for a child with Down syndrome frequently requires more time and energy, parents of Down syndrome babies should seek the advice of a knowledgeable pediatrician and the many Down syndrome support groups and organizations available.
Medical Problems With Down Syndrome Babies
Down syndrome babies often have hypotonia, or poor muscle tone. Because they have a reduced muscle tone and a protruding tongue, feeding babies with Down syndrome usually takes longer. Mothers breastfeeding infants with Down syndrome should seek advice from an expert on the subject to make sure the baby is getting sufficient nutrition.
Atlantoaxial instability, a malformation of the upper part of the spine located under the base of the skull, is present in some individuals with Down syndrome. This condition can cause spinal cord compression if it is not treated properly.
Seizure disorders, although less common than some of the other associated medical conditions, still affect between 5 percent and 13 percent of individuals with Down syndrome, a tenfold greater incidence than in the general population. There is an unusually high incidence of infantile spasms or
seizures in children less than 1 year of age, some of which are precipitated by neonatal complications, infections, and
cardiovascular disease. However, these
seizures can be treated with medications.
Other medical problems associated with Down syndrome can occur during this stage of development.
(Click Down Syndrome Effects for more information about specific medical conditions associated with this condition.)
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