One of the most common chromosomal disorders globally is Down syndrome. With proper care and support, children can live fulfilling lives. At Dr. A M Reddy Autism Centre in Hyderabad, we provide a nurturing, individual approach to supporting children with Down syndrome. We help our children achieve their full potential, one small step at a time.

Down syndrome occurs when a child is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. This causes numerous changes to the development of the body and brain of a child. This also causes changes to the child’s physical appearance, cognitive processes, and other dimensions of development. Children with Down syndrome are no exception to the individualistic nature of humans, and have their own challenges as well as unique skills.

What are the causes of Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is caused by a chromosomal issue. This occurs due to an error in the division of cells during the development of the embryo in a completely random way. There are three types of Down Syndrome:

Trisomy 21 – This is the most common of the three types. Around 95% of Down Syndrome cases are due to Trisomy 21. In this type of Down Syndrome, all the cells in the body will have an extra chromosome 21.

Mosaic Down Syndrome – This classification only has extra chromosomes in some of the body’s cells. This type will cause some people to only show mild symptoms of Down Syndrome.

Translocation Down Syndrome – For this type, a piece of chromosome 21 is located somewhere else in the body, in a completely normal way, and is caused by an extra piece of DNA.

The following can increase the chances of a newborn having Down Syndrome:

• Having a pregnancy after the mother is 35 years of age (older maternal age)
• When a pregnancy occurs, and the woman has a family history of chromosomal issues
• When a pregnancy is made, and the woman has a family history of carrying a Chromosomal Translocation.

What are some signs of Down syndrome?

There are signs of Down syndrome that can be seen at birth and then confirmed with a chromosome test shortly after. Each individual will have their own set of features that can also vary in severity. Some of the more common features may be:

Physical signs:

• Facial features showing a flat profile face with a flat nose
• Eyes that have a slight slant upward, with skin at their corners that folds
• Small-sized ears, mouth, and hands
• A short neck and a soft body with low muscle tone (hypotonia)
• A hand that features a single crease that runs across the palm
• A short body that is small overall

Developmental signs:

• The individual reaches early developmental milestones later such as sitting, standing, and walking
• Having more delays with speech and language
• Difficulty and/or challenges with learning and memory
• Having a shorter attention span and difficulty with processing quickly
• Poor fine motor skills, especially with activities such as drawing and writing

Health-related signs:

• Having a heart defect is more common than in other children (around 50% of children)
• Having a low immunity and other illnesses involving the Thyroid
• Having a digestive problem that includes issues with constipation and reflux
• Hearing and vision problems
• Having more respiratory infections than average

What treatment support do we offer?

There are no cures for Down Syndrome. However, positive changes can be made to the child’s development, confidence, and overall quality of life by introducing early and ongoing support. Our center offers a holistic, homeopathy-based framework, which supports the child along other therapeutic pathways.

Homeopathy
Dr. A M Reddy prescribes individual constitutional homeopathic remedies based on each child’s specific health needs. Homeopathy works to boost the body’s immune system, advance mental capacity, and safely promote overall health and development.

• Homeopathic remedies based on the child’s entire health history
• Aids brain development and learning
• Improves the immune system and decreases illness
• Safe for any child of any age

Developmental and Cognitive Support
We provide support to aid the child’s development of learning, memory, and attention, which is based on their current developmental stage and which they are then supported in taking to the next stage, at their own pace.

• Activities to aid memory, concentration, and logical reasoning
• Support for the development of spoken and written language
• Support for the development of gross and fine motor movements

Speech and Communication Support
Delayed Speech is among the most frequent of all concerns in Down Syndrome. From a very young age, we provide support to foster the child’s development of spoken and unspoken communication.

• Simple activities to foster the child’s development of spoken and written language
• Support for parents to foster the child’s communication in all of their daily activities
• Support for the development of communication through the use of signs and visual aids

Diet and Nutritional Support
Children with Down Syndrome are more likely to gain weight, develop issues with the thyroid, and have digestive issues. In support of the child’s healthy growth and development.

• Detection and treatment options to manage thyroid and digestive health.
• Suggested vitamin and mineral supplementation.
• Food guidance that is practical for the entire family.

Parent Counseling and Support
You have a lot on your mind when you hear the news about your child’s Down Syndrome diagnosis. You are not alone, and it is our goal to help you find the answers you are looking for, calm your concerns, and help you feel confident in your daily parenting.

• Knowledge about Down Syndrome with developmental milestones to be expected.
• Behavioral management when dealing with people with Down Syndrome.
• Support for feelings of loss and isolation.
• Families can expect (realistic) goals to be accomplished.

What progress can families expect?

All children with Down Syndrome progress and reach goals of their own individual determination. Families that have partnered with us have seen progress in:

1. Better speech and communication
2. Longer attention and faster learning
3. Great health with fewer sicknesses
4. Better control of the body and movements
5. Being able to do more alone
6. Better behavior and feelings

The faster the support, the better progress the child will make. All families need to contact us as soon as the child is diagnosed, especially if the child is an infant.