Question

Write a one page article on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Answer 1

Fetal alcohol syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome is a condition that results from the exposure of alcohol by the mother during pregnancy. This syndrome causes brain damage, physical problems and problem with behaviour and learning.

Main cause of fetal alcohol syndrome is the exposure to alcohol during pregancy. Alcohol from the mothet blood passes into fetus through placenta. All type of alcohol are equaly harmful. Alcohol causes high amount of blood alcohol concentration than mother due to slow metabolism. Alcohol also ineterept the oxygen supply to developing fetus.

The severity of fetal alcohol syndrom varies in each children. A child wity FAS have following symptoms

▪ low body weight

▪Poor coordination

▪Learning disabilities

▪Poor attention and memory

▪Vision or hearing problem

▪Growth problems like small head , short height, abnormal facial features.

▪Poor social skill

▪Rapidly changing moods

▪Poor judgement skills

Fetal alcohol syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of charecteristic features like growth retardation, facial feature ( palpebral fissure,thin vermillion border, smooth philtrum) and mental illness.

CNS damage due to alcohol exposure is permanent. There is no cure for fetal alcohol syndrome. Early diagnosis can reduce some of the fetal alcohol syndrome effect. Early intervention can help in walking, talking and improve social skills , life skills ,learning skills.

There are no medication to treat fetal alcohol syndrome. Certain medications like anti depressant, anti anxiety,neuroleptics can be given ro reduce symptoms.

Caring of children with this syndrome is challenging. Many children have life long problems.Prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome is possible by not drinking alcohol during pregnant days. Besides proper intervention, provide a stable,happy and safe environment to the child.