The one factor that is present in all cases of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is prenatal exposure to alcohol. If the birth mother drank during pregnancy, regardless of the amount, there is the chance of an alcohol-related birth defect. No amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy has been found to be safe for the developing fetus- none.
A diagnosis of FAS is based on a specific set of criteria: distinct facial pattern, growth deficiencies, central nervous system dysfunction, and a history of prenatal alcohol exposure. To receive a diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a child must exhibit all of these characteristics. Children who exhibit many but not all may be given a diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which is used to describe individuals who were exposed to alcohol before birth, and have some type of alcohol-related birth defect.
Children who are affected by prenatal alcohol exposure typically have a wide-range of physical, behavioral, mental, and learning challenges. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is the number one cause of mental retardation- though not all children with FAS will suffer mental retardation. Alcohol does more damage to the developing fetus than illegal or legal drugs.
Physical Characteristics of FAS
- Low birth weight
- Small head circumference
- Small eye openings
- Smooth, wide philtrum
- Thin upper lip
The facial characteristics may not be noticeable immediately after birth, or once adolescence is reached. Typically, these characteristics are most noticeable between the ages of two and ten.
Mental & Behavioral Characteristics of FASD
Prenatal alcohol exposure does most of its damage to the developing brain. FAS and other Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are brain damage, and is permanent and irreversible. Behaviors and mental disabilities that stem from these birth defects are often the hardest to deal with, for both parent and child.
A child with FASD, may also be given other diagnoses, such as:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)
- Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD)
- Anxiety Disorder
- Mental Retardation
Other behaviors often associated with FASD include:
- Hyperactive
- Passive or “lazy”
- Impulsive
- Stubborn
- Fearless
- Irritable, mood swings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty adapting to change
- Easily over stimulated
- Difficulties in school and truancy
- Teasing or bullying
- Sexual promiscuity, appropriate sexual behavior
A child does not have to exhibit all of these symptoms to have FASD.
Diagnosing a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
If it is suspected that a child may have an alcohol-related birth defect, it is important to seek out a professional diagnosis. Look for a medical professional who is qualified and experienced in diagnosing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
Early diagnosis and intervention is imperative in order for the child to receive the proper care, and services, which will help him reach his full potential.
References:
What are the Characteristics of FASD? (pdf), Teresa Kellerman, Fasstar Enterprises.
A Closer Look at Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Texas Adoption Resource Exchange (TARE).
Related Articles:
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome & Adoption
Managing FAS Behaviors in Children
The Emotional Aspect of Adopting
Crystal Killion - Crystal Killion is a freelance writer and mother of five. She has worked with children in various capacities for over 20 years as a ...
