Down Syndrome - Treatment Overview

A team of health professionals will direct the treatment for Down syndrome based on your child's unique symptoms and physical problems. By working closely with these health professionals and other care providers, you can help your child become as independent as possible and lead a healthy, meaningful life.

Initial treatment

It is normal to experience a wide range of emotions when your baby is born with Down syndrome. Even if you learned about your baby's condition while you were pregnant, the first few weeks after birth often are very difficult as you learn to cope with the diagnosis.

A confirmed diagnosis of Down syndrome requires a karyotype test. This test usually is done on a sample of your baby's blood if it is done after birth. It may take 2 to 3 weeks to get the complete results of this test. This waiting period can be extremely difficult, especially if earlier test results were uncertain and your baby has only subtle characteristics of Down syndrome.

Your newborn with Down syndrome will have regular checkups and various tests during the first month. These tests are used to monitor his or her condition and to help health professionals look for early signs of common diseases associated with Down syndrome and other health conditions. These checkups also are a good time to begin discussing issues of concern about your newborn.

Ongoing treatment

Making sure that your child has regular medical checkups, helping to manage his or her adjustments to social and physical changes, and promoting independence are important parts of ongoing treatment for Down syndrome.

Physical exams allow your health professional to watch your child for early signs of common diseases associated with Down syndrome and other health conditions. Health professionals look for specific problems at various ages, such as cataracts and other eye conditions during a baby's first year. See checkups and testing during:

Talk to your doctor during your child's checkups or any time you have concerns. Many parents of children with Down syndrome express similar concerns according to their child's age.

Newborn concerns often include getting emotional support and learning where to get more information about Down syndrome. For information about online resources and organizations, see the Other Places to Get Help section of this topic.
Infant concerns often focus on preventing colds and infections. Also, you might start exploring the types of therapies that might be tried based on how your child grows and develops.
Early childhood concerns are often related to your child's rate of growth and development, which is typically slower than other children of the same age. You will likely want to address behavior, social skills, diet and exercise, and how to prevent common illnesses.
Middle and late childhood concerns increasingly focus on gaining independence, social skills, and education.
Adolescent and young adult concerns often relate to the transition into adulthood and planning for the future, such as where your child will live. Also, issues related to sexuality and relationships may develop.

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WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 09, 2007

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.