Basics about FASDs

However, treatment to mitigate the effects of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders is available. Given the extensive variation in presentation and damage that prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause, treatment for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders is often tailored and specific to individuals. One of the most common treatment approaches is using the medical home to coordinate developmental and educational resources. This treatment modality takes into account the fact that fetal alcohol spectrum disorders disrupt normal neurobehavioral development and that each person can have different manifestations of those disruptions. This treatment methodology seeks to tailor specific therapies to reinforce and address any delays or deficiencies with additional education, practice, and reminders.

Children with an FASD can have brain abnormalities that lead to problems in day-to-day functioning despite having a normal IQ, so a comprehensive evaluation is indicated. All children with involvement in foster care or adoption processes―especially international adoptions―should always be evaluated for a possible FASD. The exact number of children who have an FASD is difficult to determine. Some experts estimate that approximately 40,000 babies may be born with an FASD in the United States each year. Based on studies of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and others, it is estimated that in the United States, somewhere between 800 and 8,000 babies could be born each year with Fetal alcohol syndrome . Prognosis is guarded; however, recent research with chick embryos may help guide future treatments to reverse the damage caused to the brain by prenatal alcohol exposure.

Alternative treatments

We offer women’s health services, obstetrics and gynecology throughout Northeast Ohio and beyond. Whether patients are referred to us or already have a Cleveland Clinic ob/gyn, we work closely with them to offer treatment recommendations and follow-up care to help you receive the best outcome. Fetal alcohol syndrome isn’t curable, and the symptoms will impact your child throughout life. However, early treatment of some symptoms can lessen the severity and improve your child’s development. Besides early intervention services and support from your child’s school, providing a stable, nurturing, and safe home environment can help reduce the effects of an FASD. Talk to your child’s doctor or other members of the care team.

FASD is the most common cause of brain damage before birth and is related to alcohol intake by the mother during pregnancy. Alcohol intake during pregnancy causes a wide range of damage to an unborn child and results in many different disorders. The degree of damage varies according to the amount of alcohol consumed and the particular time during the pregnancy that the alcohol was consumed. Other factors such https://ecosoberhouse.com/ as maternal nutrition also contribute to the variation in the effects on the baby. A pattern of binge drinking is considered the most damaging . Please refer to Center for Disease Control and Prevention website for signs and symptoms, causes & prevention, and treatment information. Given that the CNS damage from prenatal alcohol exposure is permanent, there is no cure for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Condition Specific Organizations

This means that someone else takes over the care of the child for a short time. This gives the parents a break so they can take care of other family needs. Ask your child’s healthcare provider about services in your area.

“The 4-Digit Diagnostic Code” ranking system distinguishes between levels of prenatal alcohol exposure as high risk and some risk. It operationalizes high risk exposure as a blood alcohol concentration greater than 100 mg/dL delivered at least weekly in early pregnancy.