Your Health, Your Voice: A Guide for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Down Syndrome

It's important to know when to see a doctor if you have intellectual disabilities or Down syndrome. Sometimes it's hard to tell people how you feel, so it's good to know what signs to look for.

Watch for These Signs

• Changes in how you act: If you suddenly feel more grumpy, restless, or angry when you're usually happy, it could mean you're in pain or feeling stressed.

• Feeling sick in your body: Look out for a fever, throwing up a lot, or trouble breathing. If you have a fever over 101°F, it's good to see a doctor, especially if you have Down syndrome, because you might get sick with breathing problems more easily.

• Changes in eating or sleeping: If you're not eating as much as usual for a few days, or if you're sleeping very differently, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor.

• New rashes or skin changes: If you see any new rashes or changes on your skin that you don't understand, especially if there's swelling, you should get it checked out.

• Feeling worried or sad: If you start feeling really worried or sad, or if you want to be by yourself more, it's important to talk to someone. Feeling good in your mind is just as important as feeling good in your body.

Finding a Doctor

It's a good idea to have a main doctor, called a Primary Care Provider (PCP). Here are some places that can help you find one:

• Community Health Clinics: Places like Philly Fight and North Philadelphia Health System are good options. They know how to help people with intellectual disabilities.

• Local Health Departments: The Philadelphia Department of Public Health can help you find doctors who understand your needs.

• Groups that help people with disabilities: Organizations like the Arc of Pennsylvania can help you find doctors who are good at treating people with disabilities.

• Your insurance company: If you have health insurance, their website can show you doctors who work with your plan.

Talking to Your Doctor

When you go to the doctor, here are some tips:

• Be ready: Think about how you've been feeling, what's different, and what worries you.

• Speak clearly: Try to explain what's wrong simply. Instead of saying "I feel weird," you could say "My head has been hurting every day this week."

• Ask questions and speak up: Don't be afraid to ask questions if you don't understand something. It's important to make sure your doctor listens to you and helps you get the best care.

  
  

Taking care of your health by knowing when to get medical help is very important for people with intellectual disabilities or Down syndrome. By paying attention to how you feel and using the resources in #Philadelphia, you can get the care you need to stay healthy and happy.