Benefits of regular monitoring of health in individuals with Down Syndrome

Children with Down Syndrome (DS) bring with them a unique blend of abilities, personalities, and strengths. Along with these, they may also experience certain health concerns more frequently than other children. Many of these medical concerns are well-documented, and the good news is: when identified early and managed consistently, they can be effectively supported.

This guide is for parents, caregivers, and families to better understand why health monitoring matters and what to watch out for, so your child can continue to grow, learn, and thrive.

Why is regular health monitoring important in Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is a genetic condition that may impact different systems in the body. This means that a child with DS might need a little more support in areas like hearing, vision, growth, immunity, digestion, or thyroid function. Monitoring these areas regularly helps reduce the risk of complications and ensures your child receives timely support.

While not every child with DS will face all these health concerns, having a plan to check in regularly with health professionals helps you stay one step ahead.

Common health concerns to watch out for in Children with Down Syndrome

Here are some of the common health concerns that may occur in individuals with Down Syndrome. Many of these can be managed well when detected early:

1. Recurrent infections

Frequent skin, bladder, or respiratory infections may happen due to immune system differences.
Who to consult: Paediatrician or Immunologist
When to check: If infections occur more than 2–3 times in a season or seem unusually severe

2. Thyroid hormone concerns

Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone) is common and can affect energy, growth, and mood.
Who to consult: Paediatrician or Endocrinologist
When to check: At birth, then regularly every 6–12 months

3. Heart conditions

Some children with DS are born with congenital heart defects.
Who to consult: Pediatric Cardiologist
When to check: Shortly after birth or if the child shows poor feeding, fatigue, or breathlessness

4. Hearing Difficulties

Hearing may be affected due to frequent ear infections or fluid in the ear.
Who to consult: ENT specialist + Audiologist
When to check: In the first few months, and again every 6–12 months

5. Vision concerns

Children may experience issues like nearsightedness, cataracts, or strabismus (crossed eyes).
Who to consult: Paediatric Ophthalmologist
When to check: First eye check-up by 6 months of age

6. Oro-motor challenges

Feeding, chewing, or speech difficulties may stem from muscle tone differences in the mouth.
Who to consult: Speech-Language Therapist or Feeding Therapist
When to check: If child has trouble breastfeeding, delayed chewing, or unclear speech

7. Low muscle tone (Hypotonia)

This can affect sitting, walking, balance, and posture.
Who to consult: Paediatric Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist
When to check: If motor milestones like sitting or walking are delayed

8. Sleep disturbances

Some children may experience disrupted sleep due to breathing issues like sleep apnea.
Who to consult: Paediatrician or Sleep Specialist
When to check: If snoring, restlessness, or daytime fatigue is observed

9. Digestive system concerns

Some children may have constipation, reflux, or digestive sensitivities.
Who to consult: Paediatrician Gastroenterologist or Paediatrician
When to check: If feeding issues, frequent stomach aches, or poor weight gain occur

10. Foot arch and walking challenges

Flat feet or unusual walking patterns may be observed.
Who to consult: Physiotherapist or Orthopedic Specialist
When to check: As the child begins to stand or walk

How can you stay on track?

• Create a health checklist based on your child’s age
• Schedule annual health reviews with your pediatrician
• Track growth, feeding, and sleep patterns at home
• Keep copies of all reports and referrals in a health folder
• Reach out for early intervention services if there are delays in movement, speech, or learning

Important note on health monitoring

Some of the signs mentioned above may also be seen in children who do not have Down Syndrome. Similarly, not all children with DS will show these challenges. What matters most is being aware, observant, and proactive.

As a caregiver, if you notice any persistent change or feel unsure about your child’s development or health, it’s always okay to reach out to a medical professional.

Down Syndrome is not an illness, and it cannot be cured. But with the right support, every child with DS can experience a full, meaningful, and joyful life. Medical monitoring is not about searching for problems,  it’s about creating the best possible conditions for your child to grow.

If you’d like a visual summary of the points discussed, you can download the infographic on health monitoring in children with Down Syndrome. It also includes a quick reference to the specialists mentioned above. Additionally, we invite you to explore a helpful presentation and a video on sensory support in children with DS, both available for free.

For more support

If you have questions about Down Syndrome, Autism, ADHD, or other developmental conditions, the Nayi Disha team is here for you.

Call/WhatsApp: 844-844-8996
Languages: English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali Our support is free and confidential.

Acknowledgements

Grateful thanks to Dr. Nina Piyush Vaidya (M.B D.Ped, PGDGC), Paediatrician, for her expert inputs in developing this resource.

We thank our volunteers Mrs. Radhika Guduguntla and Mrs. Nivedita Agrawal for translating this content into Telugu and Hindi.

Disclaimer

This guide is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for proper guidance.