|  | Family Health | Babies Health

Side Effects of Being a Down Syndrome Baby

According to Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi Murkoff and Sandee Hathaway, authors of "What to Expect the First Year," Down syndrome affects about 1 in 800 babies. An extra chromosome in their DNA causes a host of physical, mental, and medical problems, but babies with Down syndrome are known for their sweet and lovable demeanor.

  1. Physical Effects

    • Babies with Down syndrome usually have an over-sized tongue and a short neck. They may also have a flatter back of the head, small ears and a wide, flat nose. These children are often short and have loose muscle tone, resulting in delayed developments, such as rolling over, crawling and walking.

    Cardiac Side Effects

    • Many babies with Down syndrome have serious heart abnormalities, but these can often be corrected with surgery after birth. Some have a higher risk of heart disease later in life.

    Other Internal Effects

    • Children with Down syndrome are often born with gastrointestinal defects and thyroid dysfunction. They might also have a higher risk for developing cancers, such as leukemia, and infectious diseases such as pneumonia.

    Other Side Effects

    • Some Down syndrome children also have poor hearing and vision and dental problems. They often experience early aging, including Alzheimer's disease, and usually only live to about age 55.

    Prognosis

    • Most children with Down syndrome have much greater capabilities than previously believed. Many medical problems can be treated, and most children can be mainstreamed to a certain age in school. Most babies born with Down syndrome can enjoy a relatively normal life, thanks to today's medical science and special education programs.

Babies Health - Related Articles