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Medical care for children with Down syndrome

A woman holds hands with a girl who has Down syndrome.

Children with Down syndrome need some special checkups.

All children need regular medical care, but children with Down syndrome should be watched especially closely.

Down syndrome can affect organs and systems throughout the body, and problems with any of them are best detected early.

Down syndrome can increase risks for other health problems, such as:

Heart problems.
Thyroid disorders.
Digestive problems.
Feeding problems.
Vision or hearing problems.
Dental problems.
Respiratory, ear, nose and throat infections.

Because of these risks, newborns and children with Down syndrome should be checked for signs of medical problems. This can include hearing and vision tests, eye exams, heart imaging, tests of physical and social development, thyroid tests, and a neck x-ray to check for spinal problems. It's also important that children with Down syndrome get recommended immunizations.

For parents, these visits are an opportunity to ask questions and find out about financial assistance, support groups and other resources for families affected by Down syndrome.

If your child has Down syndrome, look for a doctor you feel comfortable with, who will listen to you and work with you to safeguard your child's health. You may want to ask other parents of children with Down syndrome for recommendations.

Reviewed 6/4/2025