Characteristic physical signs of the syndrome include slanted eyes, short arms and legs, and speech problems. There is also a risk of heart abnormalities, reflux, frequent ear infections, sleep problems, and thyroid disorders.
Physical Symptoms of Down Syndrome
The physical symptoms of Down syndrome can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:
Flat face
The face of people with Down syndrome is shorter and wider than normal. This is due to a number of factors, including:
- Small head
- Broad jaw
- Low-set ears
- Eyes that are closer together than normal
The head of people with Down syndrome is on average 1.5 cm smaller than that of people without the syndrome. This can be noticeable at birth.
Missing nasal bone
Some people with Down syndrome may have a missing nasal bone. This can lead to a smaller, more pointed nose.
Short neck
The neck of people with Down syndrome is on average 1.5 cm shorter than that of people without the syndrome. This can be noticed at birth.
Shortened fingers and toes
The fingers and toes of people with Down syndrome are on average 1.5 cm shorter than those of people without the syndrome. This can be noticed at birth.
Longer tongue
The tongue of people with Down syndrome is on average 1.5 cm longer than that of people without the syndrome. This can lead to problems with speech and swallowing. This is why some of them often have their tongues sticking out.
Eyes that are set closer together than usual
The eyes of people with Down syndrome are on average 1.5 cm closer together than usual. This can lead to vision problems. The eyes are also curved, which is called mongolism.
Protruding occipital bone
The bone at the back of the head (occipital bone) of people with Down syndrome is on average 1.5 cm more prominent than that of people without the syndrome. This can be noticeable at birth.
Reduced muscle tone (hypotonia)
Sometimes as a result, children have hypermobility of the joints.
Features in the limbs
Their palms are smaller and usually have a single transverse groove (the so-called monkey groove). Another feature is flat feet.
Intellectual symptoms of Down syndrome
The intellectual symptoms of Down syndrome can also vary from person to person. Most people with Down syndrome have some level of mental retardation. The IQ of people with Down syndrome typically ranges from 35 to 70.
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty with various areas of learning, including:
Reading
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty understanding what they read. They may have trouble understanding complex concepts and recognizing words.
Writing
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty writing words and sentences. They may have trouble with grammar and spelling.
Mathematics
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty understanding mathematical concepts. They may have trouble solving problems and understanding complex mathematical formulas.
Logic
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty understanding logical relationships. They may have trouble solving problems and understanding complex logical concepts.
Problem Solving
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty solving problems that require creativity and ingenuity. They may have trouble finding new solutions to old problems.
Spatial Perception
People with Down syndrome may have difficulty perceiving spatial relationships. They may have trouble orienting themselves in space and understanding three-dimensional objects.
It should be noted that not all people with Down syndrome have all of these physical and intellectual symptoms. Some people may have only some of them, while others may have no symptoms at all.
Sources:
1. Down syndrome – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/down-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355977