Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

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Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition that develops in a developing baby when a pregnant woman consumes alcohol during her pregnancy.

A syndrome is a collection of symptoms that occur together as a result of a specific disease or abnormal condition. When one has fetal alcohol syndrome, they are at the most severe end of the fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASDs).

FAS and other spectrum disorders have different effects on children. The severity of the symptoms can range from mild to severe. They can include:

  • Heart, kidney, and bone problems
  • Learning difficulties and a low IQ
  • Memory, coordination, and attention issues
  • Hyperactivity
  • Sleep and suckling issues as an infant
  • As a person grows older, the symptoms of fetal alcohol syndrome worsen

Complications

A baby does not have a fully developed liver in the womb that can process or break down alcohol, so it can easily enter and damage the baby's organs. This can result in:

  • Miscarriage:During the first few months of pregnancy, you may lose your baby.
  • Stillbirth:During the second half of your pregnancy, you may lose your baby in the womb.
  • Preterm labor:Drinking can cause your baby to arrive prematurely. Many health issues can arise in premature babies. These frequently include breathing problems and other issues related to immature lungs, as well as developmental issues caused by an underdeveloped brain or brain abnormalities.
  • Birth defectsSome babies are born with heart or kidney defects. Others may have vision or hearing problems, as well as other health issues.

Some of the most serious complications occur when a pregnant woman drinks during the first trimester, when the baby's brain begins to develop. However, the second and third trimesters are not immune. The brain is still developing at that time, and even moderate amounts of alcohol can disrupt this process.

Symptoms

Fetal alcohol syndrome is the most severe of the fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. When a pregnant woman consumes alcohol, a group of birth defects can occur.

Many symptoms of fetal alcohol syndrome can occur, including;

  • Physical defects:
    Small head and brain size
    Problems with vision or hearing
    Deformities of the joints, limbs, and fingers
    Small eyes, a thin upper lip, and a ridge between the nose and upper lip are distinguishing features

  • Neurological problems:
    Learning difficulties
    Problems with coordination and balance
    Troubles with reasoning
    Hyperactivity
    Moodiness

  • Behavioral issues:
    Inadequate social skills
    School difficulties
    Poor impulse control

    Although fetal alcohol syndrome symptoms cannot be cured, early detection and treatment can improve a child's development and outlook. According to research, children perform better when they:

    • Are diagnosed before the age of six
    • Spend their school years in a loving, nurturing, and stable home
    • Are not subjected to violence
    • Get help with special education and social services


      • vectors by Freepick; graphic design by Vadot

      Alcohol use during pregnancy causes long-term problems that can be fatal. Consult your healthcare provider if you drank alcohol while pregnant. It is critical to diagnose fetal alcohol syndrome as soon as possible. If you are currently pregnant and drinking alcohol, you should stop immediately to reduce your risk of FAS. Speak with your healthcare provider for assistance.

      Reference:

      Fetal alcohol syndrome - Symptoms and causes. (2018). Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fetal-alcohol-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20352901

      ‌Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. (2013, September 30). WebMD; WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/baby/fetal-alcohol-syndrome

      ‌Clinic, C. (2019). Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15677-fetal-alcohol-syndrome

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