How to prevent Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS)
How to prevent Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS) is a condition that affects the baby’s brain development caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Drinking Alcohol at any stage of pregnancy can cause a lot of harm to the unborn baby in the womb. If a woman drinks alcohol during pregnancy, she will have serious consequences on her baby’s growth and development.
The chances of this condition increases depending on the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption by the pregnant mother, this is because the developing fetus does not process alcohol the same, as an adult does and alcohol is more concentrated in the fetus and can prevent enough nutrition and oxygen from getting to the fetus and vital organs.
Effects of alcohol on the fetus are neurological, which is a result of damage to the central nervous system (CNS) which is the brain and the spinal cord, also it could physical or behavioral.
Sign and Symptoms of Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome
There are several symptoms that are related to Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS) which could be mild or severe depending on the individual, they include;
- Small head
- A smooth ridge between the upper lip and nose, small and wise set of eyes.
- Below average height and weight
- Hyperactivity
- Lack of coordination
- Poor judgment
- Learning disabilities
- Heart problems/heart murmurs
- Kidney defects and abnormalities.
- Deformed limbs of fingers
- Mood swings
- Delayed development and problems in thinking, speech, movement and social skills
- Lack of focus.
How to Prevent of Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS)
It can be prevented when there is no alcohol intake in pregnancy, (total abstinence from alcohol). This leads to the delivery of a healthy baby for a happy home.
How it can be Managed
Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS) is incurable and this means that it can only the symptoms can be managed, and it is commenced as early as it is diagnosed. Depending on the symptoms the child presents there is a need for a specialist to visit.
At Home
Children Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS), will need a stable and loving home. They are most sensitive to disruptions than an average child. They are likely to develop problems with violence and substance abuse at home. The home should have regular routines for such children, simple rules and give rewards to encourage them.
Medications
There are no medications specifically for the treatment of Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS). However, some medications can address the symptoms.
Ant-depressants: can be given to treat problems with sadness and negativity.
Stimulants: To treat a lack of focus, hyperactivity, and other behavioral problems
Neuroleptics: To treat anxiety and aggression
Anti-anxiety drugs: to treat anxiety
Counseling
Special training on behavior like Friendship training, special skills for interaction are given to such children to help them fit in with peers, Academically, special home tutors are employed to give them special guide in their subject of study.
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