Supporting the Development of Children With Down Syndrome

Has your child been diagnosed with Down syndrome? Dr. Brian DuMais, Dr. Megan Dwyer, and Dr. Liz Dahlberg at DuMais Pediatrics in Orland Park, IL answer some of the top questions below.

What causes Down syndrome? 

Down syndrome is a genetic issue that causes abnormal cell division. It leads to babies being born with a copy of chromosome 21, which can be a partial copy or a full copy. Some have three of these chromosomes. The extra copy or copies of chromosome 21 impact how a child develops.

Did I do something wrong to cause my baby to have Down syndrome? 

It’s easy to feel guilt when something goes “wrong” with your baby, but Down syndrome is not your fault. It is simply due to how the cells divide at conception. There is nothing you can do to change or prevent it, so take a deep breath.

Does Down syndrome mean my child can’t live a normal life? 

Not at all. People with Down syndrome can communicate, work, live on their own, have relationships, and do more of the same things that a “normal” person can do. However, they have challenges that require extra help and support to accomplish these things. It's not impossible, though. With the help of loved ones, the many organizations available for support and assistance, and Dr. DuMais, Dr. Dwyer, Dr. Dahlberg, and our team at DuMais Pediatrics in Orland Park, IL, your child can live a happy and fulfilling life.

Why are women over 35 more likely to have a baby with Down syndrome? 

Women are more likely to produce eggs with an extra copy of chromosome 21 as they age. However, even younger women give birth to babies with Down syndrome. Up to 80 percent of children born with Down syndrome were conceived when their mother was under the age of 35.

What other risk factors are there? 

Unlike many other conditions, Down syndrome doesn’t have a very large list of risk factors. Children from every race, financial status, gender, and other categories can be born with Down syndrome. If a parent has a child with Down syndrome or is a carrier of what is known as the genetic translocation for Down syndrome, their baby is at a higher risk. However, that doesn’t automatically mean a new baby would be born with it. A genetic counselor can help assess risk before pregnancy, but there are no certainties.

Navigating Down syndrome with your child can be challenging, but Dr. DuMais, Dr. Dwyer, and Dr. Dahlberg are here for you and your child. Call (708) 364-1600 to schedule an appointment at DuMais Pediatrics in Orland Park, IL, today.