Down syndrome, resulting from the presence of an extra chromosome #21, is the most common genetic disorder that causes mental retardation. Children with Down syndrome often have upward slanting eyes, unusually shaped ears, broad hands, flattened facial features and a small head. Often, babies with Down syndrome suffer from poor muscle tone, auditory/visual impairments and slow development.

Children with this chromosomal disorder will have tribulations early on. Parents should be aware of the special-care needs for babies with Down syndrome as early as possible, to prepare themselves for the challenges that lie ahead. Some babies require medication to address a heart defect, while others require physical therapy sessions to help develop better muscle tone and coordination.

Some syndrome babies have a difficult time learning to breastfeed at first, which is sometimes related to stomach or intestinal blockages. Eye, ear, nose, throat and thyroid problems are not uncommon, as is late teething. The main thing to keep in mind is that the baby will eventually get there, but patience and offering loving support are critical to the child’s development.

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 25th, 2008 at 6:49 pm and is filed under Health & Beauty. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.