Health Issues Associated With Down Syndrome
Most health problems in people with Down syndrome also exist in people who do not have Down syndrome.
However, some medical challenges are more common in people with Down syndrome, and how the body reacts to specific health challenges may also be different in adults and children with Down syndrome.
Studies have shown a strong correlation between Down syndrome and specific health challenges that may appear at any age. For example, adults and children with Down syndrome may have an increased risk of developing heart defects, Alzheimer’s disease, or digestive problems.
Heart Defects
Experts confirm that almost 47 % of children with Down syndrome are born with a congenital heart defect. The severity varies from being a minor cavity that will close over time, or in more severe cases, the child may need medical intervention such as surgery. For that purpose, doctors recommend screening every baby born with Down syndrome with an echocardiogram.
The most common heart defects that are also related to high blood pressure in children with Down syndrome include:
- Atrial septal defect
- Ventricular septal defect
- Patent ductus arteriosus
- Tetralogy of Fallot
However, it is essential to highlight that congenital heart defects can occur in any individual in the general population, with or without a known cause. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the quality of life and general well-being of babies born with a heart defect, with or without Down syndrome.
Infections
People with Down syndrome may also have a different immune mechanism that controls the body’s defence against different types of infections. Evidence shows that children with Down syndrome may be more susceptible to respiratory and urinary infections, particularly within the first five years of life. With that said other children with Down syndrome may not experience these symptoms.
Hearing Loss
The genetic difference in people with Down syndrome is associated with an increased risk of hearing loss, including higher rates of chronic ear infections, middle ear infections or sensory-neural hearing loss.
Anatomical differences in the ear in people with Down syndrome might lead to wax or fluid build-up in the external ear canal. Fortunately, many screening methods can help identify hearing problems as early as possible, increasing health and well-being.
Vision Impairment
People with Down syndrome are linked to an increased incidence of eye and vision challenges. Fortunately, the majority of these eye and vision problems can be addressed if identified at an early age. Early assessment and proper care can significantly improve the quality of life in children and adults with Down syndrome.
The most common vision and eye challenges in people with Down syndrome include:
- Strabismus and amblyopia
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Keratoconus
- Glaucoma
- Nystagmus
- Blepharitis
- Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Thyroid challenges are common health challenges identified in people with Down syndrome. Whilst hypothyroidism is more prevalent than hyperthyroidism, these health challenges can be effectively treated with appropriate medical care and screening methods.
Blood Disorders
The genetic variations of Down’s syndrome also reflect on the blood cell division and functioning.
Specifically, children with Down syndrome are more susceptible to developing certain types of blood disorders like:
- Anaemia
- Leukaemia
- Polycythaemia
- Thrombocytopenia
These medical conditions may require additional monitoring and medical care in the hospital or home.
Problems with Bones and Spine
Underlying bones and spinal problems are more common in people with Down syndrome.
A number of factors contribute to challenges in the musculoskeletal functioning of children and adults with Down syndrome, including congenial anatomical differences.
Common challenges with muscles, bones and spine in people with Down syndrome include:
- Poor muscle tone
- Loose ligaments
- Joint hypermobility
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis
- Neck instability
Sleep Apnea and Sleep Disorders
Sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder that causes you to stop breathing while sleeping. Common types of sleep apnea include:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Central sleep apnea
Children with Down syndrome are more susceptible to developing sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils, narrowed airways and adenoids.
Dental and Gum Problems
People with Down’s syndrome face the same challenges in oral and dental health problems. However, specific features are more common in people with Down syndrome than people without Down syndrome. Some are related to tooth morphology, others to gum disease and infections.
Dental problems related to tooth anatomy include:
- Lower root-to-crown ratio
- Smaller size of the teeth
- Delayed eruption
- Hypodontia or partial anodontia
Periodontal disease is a common gum disease that can appear in people with Down syndrome. It results from frequent infections and inflammation of the gums, leading to swollen, red or bleeding gums.
Fortunately, regular oral hygiene and frequent dentist check-ups can significantly improve teeth and gum health in people with Down syndrome.
Health Issues for Adults with Down Syndrome?
Growing older affects all our body parts and physiological functions, and we may experience specific health and medical issues for different reasons. The ageing process may be more challenging for people with Down’s syndrome as they are more susceptible to specific age-related challenges, including memory loss, digestive problems, and mental health challenges.
Memory Loss
As we age, our brain naturally changes, affecting memory, learning and other cognitive skills. People with Down syndrome are more susceptible to developing memory-related challenges due to the extra genetic material associated with developmental differences.
Dementia
Evidence shows that adults with Down syndrome are more prone to developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. However, this doesn’t mean that every person with Down’s syndrome will develop any of the memory-related challenges.
Memory issues in people with Down syndrome are linked to the genetic disorder of the gene on chromosome 21 called amyloid precursor protein, which is known to cause brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Premature Aging
Adults with Down syndrome are more likely to experience “accelerated”. This affects the physical, mental and cognitive capabilities of an individual, including:
- Vision loss
- Hearing loss
- Weight gain
- Decreased activity
Health conditions associated with premature ageing in adults with Down syndrome are not uncommon. However, with person-centred care and active engagement in the community, people with Down syndrome can live a happy and fulfilling life with their families and loved ones.
Diabetes and Obesity
Digestive and metabolic health conditions are common in many people, including individuals with Down syndrome. Due to specific genetic predispositions, adults with Down syndrome are more susceptible to:
- Significant weight gain
- Endocrine or inflammatory disease
- Autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease
Depression
Anyone can experience depression in their lifetime.
However, in many cases, Down syndrome occurs hand in hand with Autism Spectrum Disorders, anxiety, and even depression.
Social stigma, lack of understanding and social isolation are the main risk factors for developing social and emotional challenges. At Unique Community Services, we embrace and celebrate diversity, equality and equal human rights for every individual in the community.
Unique Community Services Supports Individuals with Down Syndrome
Unique Community Services provides person-centred and integrated care to people with Down syndrome. Our expert clinicians provide unique care plans that promote an individual’s independence and active inclusion in the community.
Our highly trained clinicians entail a holistic approach and create strong relationships with the people we serve. We build trust and emotional connections with adults and children with Down syndrome, empowering them to learn new things and strive for what makes them happy.
We listen to people’s needs, recognise their skills and values, and foster their journey towards education, employment and independence. Unique Community Services provides tailored at-home care for adults and children with Down syndrome in Bristol and Manchester.
Contact us, and we will create a personalised plan to meet your individual needs.
