The need for consistent advocacy and support can be overwhelming and require considerable time and effort. Pregnant people who consume large amounts of alcohol regularly or engage in binge drinking (consuming drunken fetal syndrome several drinks in a short period) are at the highest risk of having a child with FASD. The level of risk correlates with the amount and frequency of alcohol intake. Additionally, factors such as poor prenatal care, malnutrition and genetics (e.g. how the mother and foetus metabolise alcohol) can also increase the risk of FASD. Unborn babies do not have a fully developed liver and are unable to process alcohol.
When to see a doctor
He was about five when his parents explained he had fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, or FASD. People with fetal alcohol syndrome have a life expectancy of about 34 years. Many adults with FAS die from accidents, suicide, or drugs and alcohol misuse.
- State and local social services can help families with special education and social services.
- After delivery, you should continue to pay attention to when you drink alcohol if you’re breastfeeding your baby.
- Tailoring the educational approach to meet the child’s unique needs helps them succeed in school and reduces the frustration that often accompanies traditional learning environments.
- You do not need to wait for a healthcare provider’s referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call.
Alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder
There isn’t a direct test for FAS, and pregnant women may not give a complete history of all alcohol intake during pregnancy. There are a multitude of reasons why it can be difficult to receive a diagnosis for an FASD. There is a lack of sufficient diagnostic capacity in most areas. Stigma is another barrier to diagnosis, as well as healthcare access. FASDs may have similar symptoms to other disorders and are often misdiagnosed.
Treatment for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
This Substance abuse could be from a doctor, an addiction support service, or a mental health professional. Talk to a health care provider if you think you or a loved one may have fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. The symptoms of this condition will be with the person throughout their entire life.
What’s the outlook for children with FASDs?
When a person drinks alcohol during pregnancy, it acts as a toxin and interferes with the normal growth and development of the brain and body of the developing infant. People who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant in the near future should not drink alcohol. If stopping alcohol consumption is difficult, it is essential to seek help as soon as possible.
- Women who are planning to become pregnant or suspect they might be pregnant should stop drinking alcohol immediately.
- You may also find it helpful to contact a support group for people with FASD.
- They can be even more sensitive to disruptions in routine than an average child.
- Parental training teaches you how to best interact with and care for your child.
