When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol it enters the blood stream. The alcohol then passes through the umbilical cord and into the baby. Drinking alcohol when pregnant can result in miscarriage, stillbirth and an entire range of developmental and cognitive disabilities.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Specific deformities of the head and face, heart defects, and intellectual disability are seen with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). The full picture of FAS usually occurs in babies born to alcoholic mothers, or to those who drink regularly or binge-drink. Even light or moderate drinking can affect the developing fetus.
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Over time, your child may get help from special education programs and social services. To diagnose someone with FAS, the doctor must determine that they have abnormal facial features, slower than normal growth, and central nervous system problems. These nervous system problems could alcohol baby syndrome be physical or behavioral. They might present as hyperactivity, lack of coordination or focus, or learning disabilities.
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- In Germany, a small 20 year study focussed on some of the most complex cases of FASD.footnote 16 They followed 37 patients who showed very poor outcomes following a psychosocial and career interview.
- Adults with FAS may struggle to maintain employment, experience mood or behavioral disorders, and suffer from isolation or social problems.
- Doctors can help form a treatment plan to reduce symptoms such as behavioral problems and learning difficulties.
The diagnosis is not based on a single symptom, and mild cases may be difficult to diagnose. Some FAS cases may be similar to other conditions that have some of the same characteristics, which can make diagnosis very difficult. Discuss all your questions and concerns with alcoholism your child’s medical home provider and other specialists caring for your child. You may need reassurance as a parent and benefit from greater personal and emotional support. There may be a support group to which your child’s doctor can refer you, or you can find one through your community, church, or school system.
