The Guide to Good Health for Teens & Adults With Down Syndrome

About this book

As the founding directors of the Adult Down Syndrome Center at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital outside of Chicago Drs. Chicoine and McGuire have accrued more than 50 years of combined experience treating teens and adults with Down syndrome. They shared their extensive mental health expertise in their previous book the bestselling MENTAL WELLNESS IN ADULTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME and now turn their attention to the physical health of teens and adults with Down syndrome The authors provide invaluable insight into what health problems are more common in their patients and how medical issues can present differently in people with Down syndrome. In a clear empathetic style they discuss how to promote a healthy lifestyle to prevent problems and how to recognize health problems early on to ensure appropriate care and an optimum outcome. THE GUIDE TO GOOD HEALTH is a resource families and caregivers can refer to over and over again whether its to find strategies to get a teen or adult to cooperate with treatment or to consider if a symptom is being misdiagnosed or misunderstood. Key topics include: Characteristics of Down syndrome that can Affect Health Care Promoting Health at Home and at the Doctors Office More Commonly Occurring Medical Issues The Connection between Mental & Physical Health Dealing with Inpatient Care (Hospitalizations) Long Term Health and Well Being throughout the Lifespan Advance Directives and End of Life Issues Specific Medical Conditions (ranging from skin and nail problems eye nose and throat issues and cardiac concerns to thyroid disorder diabetes Alzheimer and sleep problems) For each condition the authors discuss symptoms the diagnostic process and treatment options. Real-life examples from the authors practice help to illustrate how some medical problems can mistakenly be attributed to characteristics of Down syndrome. As the average person with Down syndrome lives considerably longer than in previous generations THE GUIDE TO GOOD HEALTH can also help families know what to expect during the aging process. This outstanding resource makes it possible for families who cant visit the Adult Down Syndrome Center personally to receive some of the same authoritative advice and knowledge. Its also a wonderful companion to MENTAL WELLNESS IN ADULTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME and TEACHING CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME ABOUT THEIR BODIES BOUNDARIES AND SEXUALITY.