Definition
The term, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, is used to describe a characteristic group of physical and developmental abnormalities that result from maternal consumption of alcoholic drinks during pregnancy. The most notable features of the syndrome are more likely the result of moderate to heavy drinking during the very earliest weeks of pregnancy, especially about the end of the first month. Leaning and behavior problems associated with the disorder may occur as a result of drinking later in pregnancy and are often referred to as the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, or FASD.
Findings
Physical:
- Abnormal facial features including flat or smooth area between the nose and upper lip, small head size, ears set lower on the side of the head, eyes farther apart than usual.
- Partially missing or poorly developed fingers and thumbs.
- Decreased length at birth.
Mental/behavioral
- Impulsive and hyperactive actions
- Learning difficulties
- Possible mental retardation
Treatment: - Damage caused to the developing brain and body is permanent. There is no cure. However there are intervention strategies that may prove helpful. These strategies should be used as a result of a careful physical assessment, determination of a history of alcohol exposure, and developmental evaluation.
- Medication. Some medicines, such as stimulants used to treat the attention deficit disorder, may be useful at times. Others, e.g., anti-depressants and mood altering medicines may have some value.
- Behavior management. There are many forms of behavioral treatments that may be of help. All should be based on a careful understanding of the affected child’s developmental status.
Prevention
The exact amount of alcohol ingestion during pregnancy that is safe is unknown. Some research points to an actual benefit to development, especially in boys, if a small amount of alcohol is consumed. However, there is no conclusive proof as to the amount that is helpful or detrimental. Therefore, the Sixty Second Parent recommends no use of alcohol during the entire pregnancy and, as far as possible, the weeks preceding conception.
Avoid all use of alcohol during pregnancy. One drink too many is the cause and that may very well be just the one drink easily avoided!
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