Down syndrome (trisomy 21)

Description

Down syndrome is caused by an “extra” 21st chromosome. Children with Down syndrome often have mental retardation, cardiac defects, and hypotonia (decreased muscle tone). Duodenal atresia (blockage of the intestine) may be present. Oral problems can include oral hypotonia, small oral cavity causing tongue protrusion, and delayed and/or abnormal tooth eruption.

Potential feeding problems can include:

• Tongue control, problems with tongue protrusion, tongue thrust
• Endurance during feeding because of cardiac problems (primarily for infants)
• Oral-motor problems

Children who have had numerous medical procedures, especially around the mouth and head may develop aversions to oral stimuli. For these children, a feeding team with a behavioral component is almost always necessary to a successful oral intake. This may also be the case for children who have had problems with reflux.