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Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome is the most common cause of mental retardation and malformation in newborns. It occurs because of the presence of an extra chromosome.
Babies with Down Syndrome can often be diagnosed at birth because of some common physical characteristics. For example, they tend to be unusually quiet, less responsive, and weak. Other physical signs include (but are not limited to) a flat face, small head, flat bridge of the nose, upward slanting eyes, and/or a malformed fifth finger
Other physical defects may accompany Down syndrome, such as:
There is no medical treatment for Down Syndrome that will provide a cure. But children with Down syndrome do benefit from medical help and early interventions, starting in infancy. A child with Down Syndrome will likely become acquainted with a team of doctors that may include a pediatric cardiologist, a gastroenterologist, a developmental pediatrician, physical therapist, speech pathologist, and/or occupational therapist.
In general, children with Down Syndrome usually meet developmental milestones, but it may take them a little longer than it does for children without Down Syndrome. However, early intervention programs, started as soon as possible, may give kids with Down Syndrome the best chance of success.
To determine eligibility for CMH services, contact the St. Clair County Community Mental Health ACCESS customer services hotline Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 1-888-225-4447. Crisis help also is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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