Down Syndrome – familydoctor.org

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There isn’t one standard treatment for Down syndrome. A person’s treatment depends on their individual case. This includes their physical and intellectual needs, strengths, and limitations. Having Down syndrome puts your child at increased risk for a number of health problems. These need different forms of treatment. Treatments could be one-time (such as surgery) or lifelong (such as a special diet).

Treatment could start when your child is a baby. This could happen if they are born with a problem, such as a heart defect. Doctors may screen them for other problems that commonly occur with Down syndrome. These include hypothyroidism, hearing loss, vision problems, blood disorders, and digestive problems.

Your child will most likely have a team of health professionals. This team will include doctors, specialists, and therapists. They will work together to give your child the treatment and therapy they need. This will allow them to live as productive a life as possible. Services may include early intervention, therapies, and assistive devices.

Early intervention

Early intervention involves specialized programs and resources. These are provided to babies and toddlers with Down syndrome and their families. They usually start at birth and last until the child turns 3 years old. From that age, the public school system provides physical, academic, speech and occupational therapy, and life skills support through the age of 21. Research has shown that early intervention improves outcomes for these children later in life.

Therapies

There are a variety of therapies that can help a child with Down syndrome. These include:

  • Physical therapy– exercises and activities that increase strength, improve posture and balance, and build motor skills. Many children with Down syndrome have low muscle tone. Physical therapy can be particularly helpful for them.
  • Speech therapy –helps them communicate better and improve their language skills. Children with Down syndrome often speak later than other children. This therapy can help them develop those skills.
  • Occupational therapy –adjusts everyday activities to the child’s abilities. This therapy teaches skills your child will use every day. These include eating, getting dressed, handwriting, and caring for themselves.
  • Behavioral therapy –helps your child cope with his or her condition. Complicated feelings and behaviors often go along with it. Children with Down syndrome get frustrated and can develop compulsive behaviors. They are more likely to have ADHD or other mental health issues. Therapy with a mental health professional can help.

Assistive devices

An assistive device is any tool, technology, or piece of equipment that helps your child function more easily. This could include something as simple as a modified pencil that makes writing easier, a special touchscreen computer that allows your child to communicate or hearing aids.