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Signs & Symptoms of Mild FAE

Fetal alcohol effects (FAE) are a group of related signs and symptoms that result from a mother's alcohol use during pregnancy. The condition has no distinct levels of effects; rather, cases present a range of problems that increase in severity from mild to severe. The signs and symptoms may be visible at birth, although this is not always the case. In less severe cases, symptoms such as behavioral and learning problems may not become evident until later in the child's life.

  1. What Are Fetal Alcohol Effects?

    • Fetal alcohol effects (FAEs) are part of a larger group of problems referred to as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FSAD). On the severe end of the spectrum is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), while the more mild effects are referred to as fetal alcohol effects (FAE). The signs and symptoms relating to mental and behavioral impairments are sometimes referred to as alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorders (ARNDs), while those relating to physical defects are termed alcohol-related birth defects (ARBDs).

    Physical Signs And Symptoms

    • Signs and symptoms associated with the physical effects of FSAD include a smaller head; short, upturned nose; flattened groove between nose and upper lip; and a thin upper lip. These signs will likely become more pronounced by ages two to three. During the teenage years, these features may become less apparent; however, an enlarged nose may develop. Babies suffering from alcohol-related exposure will have a low birth weight. Those with FAS will generally weigh less than 2,500 grams, while babies born with less severe FAE will also be underweight but not as dramatically. In the most severe cases of FAS, signs and symptoms can include heart defects and deformities of the joints, limbs and hands.

    Other Signs And Symptoms

    • The effects of alcohol are most likely to damage brain and spinal cord cells. FASD can seriously affect the central nervous system, including reduced muscle strength, poor coordination and tremors. FASD also impacts behavioral and cognitive development. Signs and symptoms in infants include irritability, difficulty sucking and resistance to bonding with caregivers. During school-age years, these signs and symptoms may present themselves as attention, behavioral and learning problems. FASD also has a negative impact on mental health, with many children with the condition exhibiting signs of depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

    Causes Of FASD

    • The primary cause of alcohol-related effects is the consumption of alcohol by the mother during pregnancy. The alcohol passes directly from her blood to the fetus. Studies have been unable to determine whether any level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy is safe; however, the heavier the alcohol use, the more severe the effects. "Heavy alcohol use" refers to consumption of five or more drinks, even on only one occasion. Other factors that lead to an increased risk of FASD include drug use, smoking and poor general health of the mother. The condition is more likely to affect some fetuses than others, although the reason remains unclear --- possibly related to a genetic link.

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