Treatment

Early intervention for infants and children with Down syndrome can make a major difference in improving their quality of life. Because each child with Down syndrome is unique, treatment will depend on individual needs. Also, different stages of life may require different services.

Team care

If your child has Down syndrome, you'll likely rely on a team of specialists that can provide medical care and help him or her develop skills as fully as possible. Depending on your child's particular needs, your team may include some of these experts:

• Primary care pediatrician to coordinate and provide routine childhood care
• Pediatric cardiologist
• Pediatric gastroenterologist
• Pediatric endocrinologist
• Developmental pediatrician
• Pediatric neurologist
• Pediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist
• Pediatric eye doctor (ophthalmologist)
• Audiologist
• Speech pathologist
• Physical therapist
• Occupational therapist

You'll need to make important decisions about your child's treatment and education. Build a team of health care providers, teachers and therapists you trust. These professionals can help evaluate the resources in your area and explain state and federal programs for children and adults with disabilities.