More about the effects of FAS

"Children with Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE) may present with cognitive, behavioral, and psychological dysfunction that can cause lifelong disabilities. Abnormal cognitive functioning manifests in a variety of domains, including mathematical deficiency, difficulty with time and space, cause and effect, comprehension, and memory deficits. Further, children with FAE may demonstrate poor attention and concentration skills, impaired judgment, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Conduct
problems such as lying, stubbornness, stealing, and oppositional behavior are also present in some children with FAE (Streissguth, 1997)."

My child definitely struggles with impulse control, cause and effect and most recently severe mood swings. Often times my child will get very frustrated and upset over a very mild occurrence simply because he/she lacks the ability to comprehend or understand what is happening or has happened. Since my child also struggles with speech, often times out of frustration of not knowing how to express his/her feelings (sadness, being mad or hurt)he/she will act out violently. Recently though, my child has made the connection with that behavior being inappropriate and will apologize profusely. I'm reassured this is a great sign!

As I mentioned before, my child is full of energy. We have tried just about every medicine possible for ADHD; and after documenting the side effects and observing his/her behavior, I have decided against the medication fix. I must say at times the constant energy flow is a bit overwhelming, however my child is much more kinder in spirit.

Mental illness can be a challenge children with FAS can experience. I work diligently with my doctor and her teachers to monitor my child's development, especially mentally, so that we are on top of any new mental or emotional issues as they may arise. I will continue to be pro-active in my child's life long battle with FAS.

Living with a child who has FAS

I rarely touch on such a private and very personal matter-especially to the public. I'm reaching out of my comfort zone to share a little of how this has affected my life and the life of my child.

When I first found out that my child had FAS I was overcome with a sense of sadness, hopelessness and loneliness. Next I was outraged with myself for such thoughtless and reckless behavior while being pregnant. Naturally, I didn't know I was pregnant, so I needed to let go of all the shame and useless anger.

I instantly became an advocate for my child. I was completely (and continue to be) caught off guard by all the obstacles and challenges we were to face. The triumphs and victories have come, but we have definitely fought our battles.

My child has been in speech therapy and behavioral therapy for almost 4 years now. I have worked with wonderful, educated and loving individuals who have guided us both down a wonderful journey. As I look back, we would not be where we are today without them.

My child is very special. A heart of gold, a loving nature, full of beautiful smiles and TONS of energy. My child doesn't realize that he/she is "different" and hasn't felt the hurt that I feel when others (strangers) say things about him/her out of ignorance or intolerance. I pray everyday that this will always be the case; that my child will never feel contempt or hate for others because of how people sometimes treat one another, especially someone they view as "different" or "less-than human".

I will not begin to say this has been a walk in the park and I have often found myself wondering and asking God "why me". I guess the answer is "why not me?"

I'm not a great writer, so bear with me any mistakes you may find here. I also understand that a few may judge me, a fear of mine I deal with on a daily basis. However, only God is my judge and I will do the best I can for my child to accomplish what I know and believe he/she is capable of!

Until next time,

Bye

Fetal Alcohol Effects

The fetal alcohol effects can be of a wide variety. There may be abnormal facial features, the infant may show signs of developmental delay, brain and neurological disorders and have attachment problems with the father.

Children will struggle with learning disabilities, poor impulse control, frustration and acceptable social boundaries. Often reading and speech problems are a constant battle.

Teenagers will suffer from anxiety, depression, continuous learning problems and possible inappropriate sexual behavior.

Prevent Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

It would be wise for any mother who is trying to get pregnant to abstain from drinking. It has been noted that one glass of wine is different then drinking seven drinks, however there is not any guarantee that the fetus would not be overly sensitive to the alcohol consumption. The effects of alcohol during the first trimester can cause physical damage. Drinking during the second trimester can result in the risk of spontaneous abortion. Drinking during the third trimester can cause growth deficiency. In 1981 the U.S. Surgeon General declared that no alcohol consumption was safe for the unborn fetus.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Hi everyone,

I will be blogging about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome here. I will look at and discuss: preventative, early diagnosis, intervention, treatment(s) and decide upon an argument for my research paper. Any input you may have would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Ronda