7.Gastrointestinal problems
Early in their development, Down syndrome babies usually have problems in the process of starting to feed on their mom’s breast. When they begin feeding appropriately, more than 10% of these patients start vomiting and have other gastrointestinal signs due to abnormalities such as duodenal stenosis or atresia. Fistula formation, an imperforate anus, and Hirschsprung disease may also be observed in this group of patients. More recently, studies have shown that Down syndrome patients have an increased risk of celiac disease. Some of them are intolerant to gluten and start displaying loose stools, abdominal pain, and growth failure when this condition is not detected on time. Due to the shape of the mouth and upper gastrointestinal tract, they may also have swallowing problems and suffer from gastroesophageal reflux.