Causes and risk factors
Intake of high amount of alcohol during pregnancy is the only cause of this syndrome. The alcohol crosses the placental barrier and reaches the fetus thus hampering the growth and development. The more is the alcohol intake the greater is the risk of abnormal development.
Clinical presentation:
The symptoms vary from child to child. The deformities in the child can either be identified after birth or some may start showing such features as the development occurs. Small head, narrow eyes, thin upper lips and smooth area between the lips and the nose is the characteristics features of fetal alcohol syndrome. Deformities of joint, slow growth, hearing and vision difficulties occur. The intellectual faculty of the child is also affected leading to poor memory, lack of grasping power and learning difficulties. FAS can further lead to complaints like hyperactive disorder, attention deficit, abnormal sexual behaviors or other mental health disorders.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the gynacelologist and pediatrician. Periodic check up during pregnancy and ultrasonography helps in confirming the diagnosis.MRI or CT scan of the brain can be advised which can be helpful in diagnosing the abnormalities. Routine blood test, Renal and liver function test can also be suggested.
Treatment:
There is no definite treatment plan and cure for fetal alcohol syndrome. Medication for symptomatic relief is administered. Counseling, speech, behavioral and cognitive therapy are found to be beneficial. Avoiding consumption of alcohol during pregnancy is the most important step which needs to be implemented.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
Recent update:
A recent study carried out by researchers has revealed that even consumption of high amount of alcohol by fathers is one of the causative factors for FAS in children.
