Introduction:

Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome

Women who drink alcohol during pregnancy can give birth to babies with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, sometimes known as FASDs. FASD is the umbrella term for a range of disorders. These disorders can be mild or severe and can cause physical and mental birth defects.

SYMPTOMS

• A small head
• A smooth ridge between the upper lip and nose, small and wide-set eyes, a very thin upper lip, or other abnormal facial features
• Below average height and weight
• Hyperactivity
• Lack of focus
• Poor coordination
• Delayed development and problems in thinking, speech, movement, and social skills
• Poor judgment
• Problems seeing or hearing
• Learning disabilities
• Intellectual disability
• Heart problems
• Kidney defects and abnormalities
• Deformed limbs or fingers
• Mood swings

TREATMENT

• Medical Care
• Medication
• Parent Training
• Alternative Approaches
• Physical defects

Physical defects may include:

Distinctive facial features, including small eyes, an exceptionally thin upper lip, a short, upturned nose, and a smooth skin surface between the nose and upper lip

• Deformities of joints, limbs and fingers

• Slow physical growth before and after birth

• Vision difficulties or hearing problems

• Small head circumference and brain size

• Heart defects and problems with kidneys and bones