Down Syndrome Effects: An Introduction
Though their average life expectancy has risen to the mid-50s, people with
Down syndrome are still at risk for Down syndrome effects in nearly every system in the body.
Some common Down syndrome effects may be present at birth; others may not become evident until adulthood. In individual cases, the effects of Down syndrome also vary widely. Some people with Down syndrome may experience many of its effects; others only a few.
Common Down syndrome effects can include:
Down Syndrome Effects: Thyroid Problems
Congenital hypothyroidism, characterized by a reduced basal metabolism, an enlargement of the thyroid gland, and disturbances in the autonomic nervous system, occurs slightly more frequently in babies with Down syndrome. A routine blood test for hypothyroidism that is performed on newborns will detect this condition.
Down Syndrome Effects: Hearing Problems
Recent studies indicate that 66 percent to 89 percent of
children with Down syndrome have a hearing loss of greater than 15 to 20 decibels in at least one ear, due to the fact that the external ear and the bones of the middle and inner ear may develop differently in children with the syndrome. Many hearing problems can be corrected. But, because of the high prevalence of hearing loss in children with Down syndrome, an objective measure should be taken to establish hearing status. Hearing problems, like eye problems, may be present early in life.
