We have special treatment options for children with Down syndrome to help improve their quality of life. The therapies prescribed by the treatment option have resulted in significant improvement among children in the age range of 2 to 17 years old.
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We have special treatment options for children with Down syndrome to help improve their quality of life. The therapies prescribed by the treatment option have resulted in significant improvement among children in the age range of 2 to 17 years old.
Contact Us
Down syndrome, a genetic condition, is the result of an extra or partial copy of chromosome 21, which disrupts the normal process of cell division. This extra genetic material causes the distinct behavioral traits and facial features associated with Down syndrome, the severity of which varies among individuals. Some individuals may experience permanent intellectual impairment, while in others it may lead to growth-related delays. As the primary hereditary chromosomal anomaly among children, it is a major contributor to learning disorders. Additionally, these children are prone to physiological issues such as cardiac and gastrointestinal conditions. Understanding Down syndrome and early interventions is the best way to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals.
The major symptoms of Down syndrome are associated with physical and developmental characteristics. Children and adults with Down syndrome have distinct facial features. Although not everyone with Down syndrome has similar features, some of the features are more common.
The most common signs and symptoms of Down syndrome include the following:
Developmental and Intellectual Delays
Behavioral and Social Challenges
Children with Down Syndrome usually face difficulty with social interaction and understanding social cues. Some of the common challenges include:
Speech and Language Challenges
In general, each cell in the human body has 23 pairs of chromosomes. One chromosome in each pair is contributed by the mother and the other by the father. However, in individuals with Down syndrome, there is an extra copy of chromosome 21, which means the individual is born with three copies instead of two, causing symptoms of Down syndrome, the exact cause of which is still not clear. The environment or any specific activity by the parents does not cause this condition.
Although doctors are unable to spot the exact cause of this condition, it is clear that women of age 35 and older are more likely to give birth to babies with Down syndrome. Additionally, having a child with Down syndrome will increase the chances of having another baby with the condition.
Although not common, Down syndrome can be passed on from parent to child. In some cases, one of the parents has “translocated” genes, which means some of their genes aren’t in their normal place. The parent doesn’t have Down syndrome as their body has the right number of genes, whereas their child may have a translocation condition (an extra chromosome 21). However, this does not mean all children with parents with translocation Down syndrome get it, but in some cases, this may happen.
Down syndrome is primarily categorized into three main types. The categories are based on the genetic variations responsible for the condition:
1. Trisomy 21 (Non-Mosaic Down Syndrome)
The most common type of Down syndrome, this type accounts for about 95% of cases! An extra copy of chromosome 21 in every cell of the body causes trisomy 21. This is an error in cell division during the formation of the egg or sperm. Individuals with trisomy 21 will have 47 chromosomes in all (three copies of chromosome 21) instead of the usual 46.
2. Mosaic Down Syndrome
This condition accounts for about 1–2% of Down syndrome cases. A random error in cell division after fertilization results in some cells having the normal 46 chromosomes and others having an extra copy of chromosome 21.
Mosaic Down syndrome exhibits milder symptoms. Not all cells in their body carry the extra chromosome.
3. Translocation Down Syndrome
Around 2–3% of cases of Down syndrome are categorized as translocations. The condition is caused by an extra piece of chromosome 21 attaching to another chromosome (in most cases, chromosome 14). The total number of chromosomes remains 46, but the additional genetic causes of Down syndrome characteristics.
Translocation may be inherited and passed from one generation to the next. Sometimes, it may also occur as a random event.
Tests during Pregnancy
Screening Tests - These tests are done during pregnancy, which helps in detecting the likelihood of a woman carrying a baby in the womb with Down syndrome.
Diagnostic Tests - These tests can detect and diagnose if the baby has a Down syndrome condition.
The test is recommended by experts to determine the likelihood of a woman carrying a child in her womb with Down syndrome. However, whether to take the test or not is either the woman’s or the couple’s personal choice.
Diagnosis after Birth
Early diagnosis of the condition is based on the facial appearance of the baby. The doctor may order a blood test for chromosomal analysis, known as a karyotype test. Additionally, the presence of chromosome 21 confirms the diagnosis of Down syndrome.
Children with Down syndrome may develop the health-related issues listed below:
Apart from the significant challenges, children with Down syndrome are susceptible to common illnesses like the common cold and infections. They need extra care and support from their family and friends and skilled healthcare professionals that would alleviate the difficulties to an extent that these children encounter over their lifetime.
Doctors design treatment and therapy for individuals with Down syndrome with an aim to the various physical, developmental, and health-related challenges associated with the condition. Presently, there is no cure for Down syndrome. However, early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach under the guidance of experienced medical professionals can significantly improve the quality of life. Some of the key components of therapy and treatment include:
Early Intervention Services
As with any condition, early intervention is crucial to addressing developmental delays in children with Down syndrome. Doctors may suggest a combination of therapies and support services, depending on the severity of the condition.
Special Education
Customized education programs can really help. Special education teachers and educational support teams work together with students to provide a personalized curriculum and support.
Medical Care
Individuals with Down syndrome should go for regular medical checkups. This helps doctors monitor and manage potential health issues. Children are usually prescribed screening for congenital heart defects, hearing and vision-related problems, thyroid function, and other health concerns.
Behavioral and Social Support
It helps boost social skills and overall emotional well-being.
Physical Fitness and Exercise
Doctors suggest individuals with Down syndrome engage in physical activity and exercise under professional guidance to improve muscle tone, strength, and overall health. This is very important to help these individuals achieve greater independence.
Nutritional Guidance
Good and planned nutrition is crucial for good health and development of individuals with Down syndrome.
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech and language delays are common among individuals with Down syndrome. The therapy is designed to improve communication skills and language development.
Counseling and Support Services
Counseling and support groups are highly beneficial for individuals with Down syndrome to address emotional and social challenges.
Occupational Therapy
The therapy is focused on improving daily living skills and fine motor skills among individuals with Down syndrome.
Assistive Technology
Communication devices and adaptive tools may be used by therapists and suggested for prolonged use by individuals with Down syndrome to enhance their independence.
It's important to note that individuals with Down syndrome are unique, and their needs and abilities vary. Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual's specific strengths and challenges. Regular assessments and ongoing support can help individuals with Down syndrome reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. Family involvement and a supportive community are also critical factors in the overall well-being of individuals with Down syndrome.
After identifying the signs of Down syndrome in a child, it is recommended to initiate treatment without delay. Early intervention has a significant impact on the rate of improvement in the child’s condition. Child Therapy Needs offers the best Down syndrome treatment in Delhi. Their dedicated support and treatment have already helped numerous children with Down syndrome improve their quality of life. Our team of professionals comprises special educators, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists. They work together with children in their developmental journey.
At Child Therapy Needs, we offer a comprehensive range of leading international techniques that are aimed at improving the quality of life of children with Down syndrome. We do have Down syndrome specialists from abroad visiting us regularly to impart knowledge on the latest treatment techniques, ensuring our staff stays informed and adept. Astha Bhatia is pro-actively engaged in training sessions abroad, making sure the entire team stays up-to-date on the most advanced methods for optimal results.
Our therapy center is fully air-conditioned, and the key highlight is that every inch is monitored by CCTV, ensuring the child's safety. Parents are welcome to review the footage at any time to address any concerns. New children with Down syndrome are welcome to our center throughout the year; in addition, we offer homeopathic treatments.
Down syndrome doesn't discriminate based on age, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status—it can happen to anyone. However, the chances of having Down syndrome increase with the mother's age during pregnancy. Women aged 35 or older face an elevated risk of having a child with such a condition. In addition, the risk increases if one parent carries the genetic translocation for Down syndrome or if there is a history of having a previous child with the condition. A genetic counselor can assess risk factors.
Although there are some physical features of Down syndrome, individuals with it have far more physical characteristics in common with their families.
In most cases, Down syndrome is observed at birth or shortly thereafter. Apart from physical characteristics, chromosome testing can confirm a diagnosis.
The good news is that the average life expectancy of a child with Down syndrome has increased significantly. During the 1920s, the average life span for a child was 9 years, but the average life expectancy now is approximately 60 years.
No. Individuals with Down syndrome have emotions similar to everyone else. They are sad, angry, scared, joyful, and excited.
Yes. Many people with Down syndrome live independently; some may choose to live with their families. Most adults with Down syndrome are living independently, which has been possible with significant improvements in education, community attitudes, and other areas.
At Child Therapy Needs, systems are made to provide a wide range of treatment options and therapies aimed at assisting individuals with autism in leading a more productive and independent life. The services do include professional assistance for individuals to help them deal with autism.
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