Down Syndrome - Symptoms
There are more than 50 features of Down syndrome. But not every person with Down syndrome has all the same features or health problems. Some features and problems are common.
Body shape and size
- Short stature (height). A child often grows slowly and is shorter than average as an adult.
- Low muscle tone (hypotonia) throughout the body. Belly muscles with low muscle tone can make the stomach stick out.
- A short, wide neck. The neck may have excess fat and skin.
- Short, stocky arms and legs. Some children also have a wide space between the big toe and second toe.
Face shape and features
- Slanted eyes. The doctor may also notice small spots on the colored part of the eye(iris).
- A nasal bridge that looks pushed in. The nasal bridge is the flat area between the nose and eyes.
- Small ears. And they may be set low on the head.
- Irregularly shaped mouth and tongue. The child's tongue may partly stick out. The roof of the mouth (palate) may be narrow and high with a downward curve.
- Irregular and crooked teeth. Teeth often come in late and not in the same order that other children's teeth come in.
Health problems
Some health problems related to Down syndrome are:
- Intellectual disability. Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate cognitive disability.
- Heart defects. About half of the children who have Down syndrome are born with a heartdefect.
- Hypothyroidism, celiac disease, and eye conditions.
- Respiratory infections, constipation, hearing problems, or dental problems.
- Depression or behavior problems associated with ADHD or autism.
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