Down Syndrome

Down syndrome, creates physical and mental limitations for those who have this genetic disorder. The reason why a child will develop this disorder is because during conception they are given one extra chromosome. An individual with Down syndrome will have 47 chromosomes instead of 46. Since individuals with down syndrome have this extra chromosome they develop differently. The genetic factor causing this disorder is not explained. There is no information as to why this genetic error occurs at birth but for women getting pregnant over the age of 30 the chances of having a child with down syndrome increase. A genetic test during pregnancy, although somewhat invasive, may provide parents with the genetic information on their child, including whether or not the child will be born with down syndrome.

Down syndrome, although a genetic disorder can be managed, like many other diseases. Down syndrome will create difficulties for the developing child which will never be reversed. There is no cure for down syndrome but you can overcome the genetic error by still living a productive life, despite limitations. Since those with this disease will suffer from behavioral issues and they are aware of their genetic related disability, anger management, therapy and behavioral lessons may be required to help cope with those issues when they arise. Also an individual with this disorder is not always completely aware of their actions or able to contemplate consequences before an impulse reaction. Because of this impulsive nature that this disorder creates, those with this genetic limitation should be educated and trained in order to help them differentiate what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior.

Since this disorder is genetic, a doctor could diagnose a child before it is even born or after birth. Regardless of the genetic factor, doctors are usually able to distinguish a baby with down syndrome by appearance at birth. A baby that is determined to have the genetic disorder may also experience heart conditions. The genetic disposition of this disorder also increases the chances for certain types of heart problems, cancers and early memory loss for those who have it. The disorder creates medical issues in several areas for the individual who has down syndrome making it a complicated disorder that needs constant medical attention and awareness. Those with this disorder develop slowly, both physically and mentally. The lack of physical development also could cause or complicated other problems, such as impaired hearing or vision. The limitations that this disorder creates makes it almost essential for parents to enroll their children in schools that will give special attention to their needs and help them gain some independence from their symptoms from this disorder. It is recommended that children with this disorder are entered into these types of educational facilities early on so they can gain the help they need to manage their disabilities. The earlier the better, when it comes to dealing with the symptoms of this disorder. With guidance and aid, individuals with down syndrome can improve their condition and maintain an incident free and productive life.