Infections

It is commonly accepted that most children with Down Syndrome have more severe respiratory infetcions, especially of the ears and sinuses. There are two reasons for this. One is the genetics of Down Syndrome causes abnormalities in the immune system which make it more difficult to resist an illness once exposed and harder to heal from it once ill. The second reason lies in the structure of the facial features which makes drainage of these area more difficult.

The midportion of the face (that area between the eyes and mouth is small and typically set further back in the child with Down Syndrome. This means that the sinus cavities are smaller than normal and sometimes absent entirely. The wide, flat bridge of the nose blocks the openings through which the sinuses drain. The problem is compounded by the low-set position of the ears and the smaller than normal diameter of the eustachian tube which drains the middle ear to the back of the throat. When fluids fill the ears and sinuss--spaces that should be occupied by air-infections are likely to occur.

Drainage is further compromised by the differential growth of the upper and lower jaw bones. The upper (maxilla), being part of the midface, is small in comparison to the lower (mandible). this also promotes the mouth breathing, protruding tongue and difficulty enunciating language often see in trisomic children.

Through a very gentle touch, an osteopathic physician trained in the cranial concept, can help to normalize the relationships of the bones and membranes of the of the facial area. By assisting the midface structures to come forward, one can see a cosmetic change in eye shape, cheekbones, tongue/mouth relationship and bridge of nose. Usually the frequency of upper respiratory infections are reduced as well.