Down Syndrome

Call a health professional immediately if:

• Your baby or very young child with Down syndrome shows signs of:
  • Intestinal blockage, such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and possibly swelling of the stomach.
  • Heart problems, such as bluish discoloration of the lips and fingers, difficulty breathing, or a sudden change in eating or activity level.
• A person of any age with Down syndrome shows symptoms of dislocated neck bones (atlantoaxial dislocation). This condition often occurs after an injury. Symptoms may include:
  • Neck pain.
  • Limited neck movement.
  • Weakness in the arms and legs.
  • Difficulty walking.
  • A change in bowel or bladder control.

Talk to your health professional soon if your child or adult with Down syndrome develops behavioral problems. Often these problems, especially when they develop in adults, are a reaction to medical or physical problems. Also be alert for signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a wait-and-see approach. During routine screening exams, your doctor watches your child for common health conditions or diseases that sometimes develop with Down syndrome. These office visits also are a time to decide if your child's treatment plan needs adjusting.

Who To See

The following health professionals can diagnose and treat a person with Down syndrome:

• Pediatrician, including those who specialize in development and behavior
• Family medicine physician
• Internist
• Nurse practitioner
• Physician assistant

Other specialists will be needed, such as a:

• Speech-language pathologist.
• Physical therapist.
• Occupational therapist.

And other specialists may be needed if complications arise.

Speak with a genetic counselor if you have a child with Down syndrome and you are thinking about having another child.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.