15677 Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Overview

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol can harm the baby's brain, growth, and facial features. FAS is the most serious form of a group of conditions known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).

FAS affects about 1 in every 1,000 babies worldwide. Many more children have milder forms of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

FAS affects babies whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy. Any baby can be affected, but the risk is higher with heavy drinking or binge drinking while pregnant.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Small head size
• Smooth area between the nose and upper lip
• Thin upper lip
• Small eye openings
• Being shorter or lighter than typical
• Problems with attention, memory, or learning
• Delays in speech or motor skills

Symptoms in children

• Trouble in school with reading, math, or problem-solving
• Difficulty making friends or understanding social rules
• Poor coordination or balance
• Hyperactivity or trouble sitting still
• Trouble swallowing or feeding as a baby
• Problems with sleep or startling easily

Symptoms in older adults

• Memory problems
• Trouble managing money or daily tasks
• Difficulty keeping a job
• Mental health issues like anxiety or depression
• Alcohol or drug misuse
• Problems with the law or impulsive decisions

Causes

Main causes

• Drinking alcohol during pregnancy
• Binge drinking during pregnancy (four or more drinks on one occasion)
• Drinking alcohol in the first trimester, which is when many key brain and face changes occur

Risk factors

• Heavy alcohol use while pregnant
• Binge drinking during pregnancy
• Not realizing you are pregnant early and drinking before you know
• Having alcohol dependence or trouble stopping drinking
• Lack of clear prenatal education about alcohol risks

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If a child or adult with FAS has a seizure, sudden weakness, or severe confusion, get urgent help.
• If someone with FAS talks about self-harm or suicide, call your local emergency number immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you drank alcohol during a pregnancy, tell your doctor or midwife. Ask about a developmental check for your child.
• If your child has unusual facial features, slow growth, or learning delays, see a doctor for an assessment.
• If you are pregnant and drinking alcohol, talk to a healthcare provider now about support to stop.

Diagnosis

A doctor diagnoses FAS by looking at the child's facial features, growth, brain development, and whether the mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. There is no single laboratory test for FAS.

Tests that may be done

• A physical exam to check growth and facial features
• Developmental tests to check thinking, learning, and behavior
• Hearing and vision tests
• Heart and kidney checks, since FAS can cause other organ problems
• Genetic testing to rule out conditions with similar features

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may ask about the mother's alcohol use during pregnancy. You may be asked questions about school, home life, and behavior. Sometimes FAS is not diagnosed until a child starts school and learning or social issues become clear.

Treatment

There is no cure for FAS. Treatment focuses on helping the child grow, learn, and thrive. It usually involves a team of doctors, teachers, therapists, and family members working together.

Self-care at home

• Create a steady daily routine at home
• Use pictures, charts, or lists to help with memory
• Give short, simple instructions one at a time
• Praise good behavior and stay calm during upsets
• Protect sleep time and create a calm space
• Work closely with teachers and school staff

Medical treatments

There is no medicine that treats FAS itself. However, a doctor may prescribe medicine help for certain symptoms, such as trouble with attention, anxiety, depression, or seizures. Any medicine is chosen carefully for each child and reviewed often by a qualified healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually needed for FAS itself. But some babies and children with FAS may have heart, kidney, or other birth defects that need surgical repair.

Living with this condition

People with FAS often need support with daily tasks. A safe, predictable home and school environment helps them feel confident. Break tasks into small steps, and use simple, clear language.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep mornings, meals, homework, and bedtime on a fixed schedule
• Provide very close supervision, especially for young children with FAS
• Use reminders, alarms, or checklists for everyday tasks
• Create a quiet place to calm down when emotions become strong
• Involve family, school, and local support services

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet and regular physical activity benefit anyone with FAS. Some children may need extra help with feeding or meals because of growth problems. A dietitian can help create a suitable meal plan. Swimming, walking, and bike riding are fun ways to stay active.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Many people with FAS feel frustrated, anxious, or depressed, especially when they struggle socially or at school. Talk therapy, family counseling, and social skills training can help. If you or someone you care about is in crisis, contact your local emergency number or crisis support line right away.

Prevention

Yes. FAS is completely preventable if a woman does not drink alcohol while pregnant or while trying to become pregnant. Because no amount is known to be safe, the National Health Service recommends stopping alcohol completely during pregnancy.

Vaccines

No vaccine prevents fetal alcohol syndrome.

Screening programmes

Doctors and midwives often ask about alcohol use during prenatal visits. Ask your healthcare provider about alcohol screening if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Being honest helps them offer you the right support.

Complications

If left untreated

• Learning problems and school failure
• Memory and attention difficulties that continue into adulthood
• Poor social skills and trouble keeping a job running
• Mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, or substance misuse
• Trouble with money management and daily living skills
• Higher chance of having legal or behavioral issues

Long-term outlook

With early diagnosis, a stable and loving home, and the right medical and educational support, many people with FAS grow up to lead meaningful lives. The condition is lifelong, but the right help can make a real difference. There is always hope.

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