Although knowledge about the harmful effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy is widespread, FAS syndrome (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome) is not a condition that most people are familiar with. Promoting knowledge about this disorder is extremely important, as it may encourage rational choices during pregnancy and consequently reduce the risk of fetal alcohol syndrome.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) – what is it?
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a set of developmental abnormalities occurring in children who were exposed to alcohol during fetal development as a result of the mother consuming alcohol while pregnant. Due to the toxic effects of alcohol on the fetus, growth restriction, impairment of nervous system development, and changes in the child’s facial appearance may occur. The condition also results in impairments in learning abilities, concentration, and problem-solving skills. Individuals with FAS may also exhibit hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Because alcohol affects each fetus differently, some children develop a disorder known as full FAS, characterized by significant developmental deficits. In cases where the damage is less severe, only subtle cognitive and behavioral difficulties may be present.
It is important to note that the amount of alcohol that can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders varies for each woman. Therefore, there is no safe or acceptable amount of alcohol during pregnancy.
Symptoms of FAS
Symptoms of FAS may vary depending on the individual and the severity of developmental deficits. The main symptoms include:
- abnormal child development,
- impaired development of the nervous system,
- delayed growth and low body weight both before and after birth,
- facial features such as small eye openings, a flat midface, a poorly developed philtrum, and a thin upper lip,
- difficulty choosing appropriate words,
- deficits in abstract thinking,
- problems with motor coordination,
- difficulty acquiring new knowledge,
- excessive excitability and reactivity,
- hypersensitivity to stimuli (e.g., noise),
- emotional immaturity,
- difficulties with cause-and-effect reasoning and short-term memory.
FAS in children
Exposure of the fetus to a toxic substance such as alcohol during the prenatal period often leads to various functional difficulties later in the child’s life. Children with FAS often have difficulty interpreting the surrounding world and understanding the rules that govern it. They may struggle with adapting to new conditions and tend to be more sensitive than their peers. Children with fetal alcohol syndrome also show numerous memory difficulties, especially with short-term memory, as well as problems with abstract thinking. Very often they are unable to predict the consequences of their own actions.
Due to difficulties in acquiring new knowledge, maintaining attention, and excessive hyperactivity, children with FAS should have an individualized educational program at school to help them develop new skills as effectively as possible. Failure to address the deficits associated with FAS may lead to the development of secondary disorders, which are not directly related to fetal alcohol syndrome but rather to inadequate care. These may include frustration, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, social isolation, and aggressive behavior.
FAS in adults
Fetal alcohol syndrome also significantly affects functioning later in life. Adults diagnosed with FAS often experience difficulties in forming stable interpersonal relationships. They usually have problems adapting to new conditions and therefore cope poorly with various changes.
People with FAS often struggle to adapt to social norms and solve everyday problems. When faced with failure, they tend to become discouraged quickly and may stop trying to overcome difficulties. They often have low motivation to act, which leads them to perform tasks far below their actual potential. They may also have difficulties understanding abstract concepts, which significantly complicates everyday functioning.
Individuals with FAS may also be vulnerable to emotional and physical abuse, which is why support from close family members and friends is extremely important.
Depending on the severity of developmental deficits, adults with FAS may require substantial support and care from others.
FAS – diagnosis, treatment, and therapy
In order to effectively counteract the negative consequences of fetal alcohol syndrome, early diagnosis and the implementation of therapy and appropriate treatment are extremely important.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of FAS is based on the following diagnostic criteria:
- growth delay before and after birth,
- damage to the nervous system (intellectual disability, behavioral disorders, learning difficulties),
- characteristic facial features (small eye openings, short nose, thin upper lip, small jaw),
- confirmed alcohol consumption by the mother during pregnancy.
Treatment and therapy
Treatment for FAS-related disorders is more effective when the diagnosis is made early. Although the damage caused by alcohol cannot be reversed, appropriate treatment and therapy can improve impaired functions. FAS therapy typically involves a combination of physiotherapy, speech therapy, and sensory integration therapy. These interventions help improve motor coordination, strengthen muscles, support proper speech development, and enhance perception.
Due to the difficulties faced by children with FAS, psychological and educational support is essential to reduce the risk of secondary disorders. In some cases, to alleviate symptoms of fetal alcohol syndrome, psychiatric medication may be introduced on the recommendation of a psychiatrist.