Chromosomes in the human body are composed of genes. Everything about a human being, from how he/she looks to the colour of his/her hair and eyes to how he/she works, is dependent on his/her genes. Each cell in the body has 23 pairs or 46 chromosomes, one from each parent in a pair. However, those who are born with Down Syndrome have an extra copy of the chromosome 21. This means that instead of 46 they have 47 chromosomes. It is this extra chromosome that affects the way their body and brain develops
Symptoms of Down syndrome
Some of the problems and features in those suffering from Down syndrome are common; however, not all those who suffer from this condition have similar issues.
A few common body features that are visible could be short height, short and wide neck, short arms and legs, low muscle tone, slanted eyes, small ears, a pushed inside nasal bridge and irregular-shaped mouth. They will have moderate issues with their mental abilities and even though they would be learning skills all through their lives, they may take a little longer to reach the important growth milestones like walking, talking or running. Children with Down Syndrome may suffer from intellectual disability, depression, hyperthyroidism, hearing and seeing defects, or behavioural issues related to autism or ADHD. However, some may not have any health issue at all. Studies show more than 50 features of Down Syndrome, but not all those who suffer from this disease would have similar health issues or features. Some of them may be able to live independently while others may need help all through their life.
Babies with Down syndrome mostly have a flat face and a short neck. They have mild mental disability which differs from one another. The condition is incurable and those who suffer from Down syndrome have to live with it all their life.
Types of Down syndrome
Down Syndrome is of three kinds:
Trisomy 21 - In this condition, every cell in the body has three instead of two copies of chromosome 21. This is the most common type.
Translocation Down Syndrome - Here each cell has an extra or a part of the chromosome 21, however, it does not exist of its own but attaches itself to another chromosome.
Mosaic Down chromosome - In this type, only some cells have an extra chromosome 21. This is however a rare condition.
Down Syndrome does not occur commonly and doctors are still not able to figure out the root cause of this disease. It happens before birth and is caused because of a problem in the gene. Women aged above 35 years have a higher chance of giving birth to a child with Down Syndrome. Also, if the first child has Down Syndrome, chances are that the second child may also suffer from the same condition. Although it is incurable, detecting the symptoms early in life and giving the child proper support and care can help him/her lead a healthy and happy life.
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