So these tests are used to help parents decide whether to have more diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests accurately diagnose Down syndrome and other chromosomal problems. But they're done inside the uterus, so there is a risk of miscarriage and other complications. If you're unsure about which test, if any, is right for you, your doctor or a genetic counselor can help you sort through the pros and cons of each. If the doctor suspects Down syndrome after a baby is born, a karyotype — a blood or tissue sample stained to show chromosomes grouped by size, number, and shape — can verify the diagnosis.
If your child has Down syndrome, you may at first have feelings of loss, guilt, and fear. Talking with other parents of kids with Down syndrome may help you deal with your concerns and find ways to look toward the future.
Many parents find that learning as much as they can about the condition helps ease fears. Children with Down syndrome benefit from getting early intervention services as soon as possible.
Physical therapy , occupational therapy , and speech therapy can help, and early childhood educators can work with your child to encourage and boost development. States provide early intervention services to kids with disabilities from birth to age 3. Check with your doctor, developmental pediatrician, or a social worker to find resources in your area.
Under IDEA, local school districts must provide "a free appropriate education in the least restrictive environment" and an individualized education program IEP for each child. Where to send your child to school can be a hard decision. The needs of some kids with Down syndrome are best met in a specialized program.
But many kids with Down syndrome go to school and enjoy the same activities as other kids their age. Being in a regular classroom known as inclusion , when appropriate, is good for both the child with Down syndrome and the other kids. A few kids with Down syndrome go on to college. Many transition to semi-independent living. Others continue to live at home but hold jobs and find their own success in the community. People with Down's syndrome will have some level of learning disability.
This means they'll have a range of abilities. Some people will be more independent and do things like get a job. Other people might need more regular care. People with Down syndrome can have a variety of complications, some of which become more prominent as they get older. These complications can include:. For people with Down syndrome, getting routine medical care and treating issues when needed can help with maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Life spans have increased dramatically for people with Down syndrome. Today, someone with Down syndrome can expect to live more than 60 years, depending on the severity of health problems. There's no way to prevent Down syndrome. If you're at high risk of having a child with Down syndrome or you already have one child with Down syndrome, you may want to consult a genetic counselor before becoming pregnant.
A genetic counselor can help you understand your chances of having a child with Down syndrome. He or she can also explain the prenatal tests that are available and help explain the pros and cons of testing.
Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview The genetic basis of Down syndrome Open pop-up dialog box Close. The genetic basis of Down syndrome There are 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic.
Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references What is Down syndrome? National Down Syndrome Society. Accessed Dec. However, some people with Down syndrome might have one or more major birth defects or other medical problems.
Some of the more common health problems among children with Down syndrome are listed below. Down syndrome is a lifelong condition.
Services early in life will often help babies and children with Down syndrome to improve their physical and intellectual abilities.
Most of these services focus on helping children with Down syndrome develop to their full potential. These services include speech, occupational, and physical therapy, and they are typically offered through early intervention programs in each state.
Children with Down syndrome may also need extra help or attention in school, although many children are included in regular classes. The views of these organizations are their own and do not reflect the official position of CDC. Skip directly to site content Skip directly to page options Skip directly to A-Z link.
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