children s health issues
Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Treatment of Down Syndrome
Screening for complications and associated diseases Treatment of specific symptoms and problems Genetic counseling There is no cure for Down syndrome. However, some specific symptoms and problems caused by the syndrome can be treated. Doctors can surgically repair some heart and gastrointestinal defects. Other diseases (such as hypothyroidism, celiac disease, diabetes, and leukemia) are treated as needed. Care for people with Down syndrome should also include genetic counseling for the family, social support, and educational programming appropriate for the level of intellectual functioning (see Treatment ). Early intervention with educational and other services improves the functioning of young children with Down syndrome. 