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Physical Symptoms and Characteristics



There are many characteristics and physical symptoms of Down Syndrome typical of people with Down Syndrome. Several of these characteristics observed together in a baby alerts healthcare professionals to the possibility of the baby having Down Syndrome.The most common ones are (not in any particular order):

  • Hypotonia (low muscle tone)

  • Increased flexibility

  • Head is small for age
    • flat facial profile
    slightly flattened bridge of nose
    Small nose

  • Ears

    • small
    lowset on the head
    may fold over a bit at the top
    small ear canals

  • Eyes (upward slant of eyes)

    • small skinfolds on corners of eyes (epicanthal folds)
    light spots on irises of eyes (Brushfield's Spots)



Can you tell which one of these children has Down Syndrome? Scroll down for the answer.

eyes, almond eyes, down syndrome eyes

  • Mouth

    • dental abnormalities
    small mouth
    low roof of mouth (palate)
    tongue may appear large in relationship to the mouth
    cleft lip and/or palate may also occur

  • Hands

    • small, wide hands

    a single crease across the palms (Simian crease) *see photo*
    little (pinky) fingers curve inward

  • Feet

    • wide, flat feet
    short toes
    larger than usual space between the first and second toes

  • Short stature



    • That's a lot to take in, I know. Be assured that most children with Down Syndrome will not have all of these characteristics. Some you may not even notice until you read about them.

    Some of these characteristics and physical symptoms of Down Syndrome can even be found in children who do not have Down Syndrome.

    *Answer - the baby in the middle has Down Syndrome. Notice how his eyes have an almond shape and an upward slant.





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