Down Syndrome Awareness Month – October 29, 2025

Did you know? Swallowing problems are common in people with Down syndrome.

Difficulty with swallowing can be a significant health problem causing a variety of symptoms and complications. A type of pneumonia called aspiration pneumonia is one of the more serious complications of swallowing problems. 

Several factors can contribute to swallowing problems. Swallowing can be affected by anatomical or physical issues. Swallowing problems can also be caused by behaviors such as not chewing adequately or eating too quickly. 

Attention to healthy eating, chewing, and swallowing in daily life as well as evaluation and treatment by medical professionals may be recommended to diagnose and treat swallowing problems. 

Brian Chicoine, MD provides more information in this Swallowing Problems article.