There is no cure for the symptoms of FAS.
The physical defects and mental deficiencies typically persist for a lifetime. However, early diagnosis and treatment can improve a child’s development and outlook.
Early intervention services can act as protective factors to help reduce some of the effects of FAS, and they may also prevent some secondary disabilities. Research shows that children with FAS do better when they:
- Are diagnosed before the age of 6
- Are in a loving, nurturing, and stable home during their school years
- Are not exposed to violence
- Get special education and social services
In addition, there are a variety of available treatments that can help manage some symptoms of FAS.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS CAN FIT INTO THE FOLLOWING 4 CATEGORIES
- Medical Care
- Medication
- Behaviour and Education Therapy
- Parent Training
Medical Care
People with FAS have the same medical and health needs as people without FAS.
People with FAS require vaccinations, proper nutrition, exercise, hygiene, and basic medical care. However, those with FAS must have the symptoms that are specific to the disorder monitored and addressed by either a current doctor or a medical specialist.
Types of Medical Specialists Include:
- Dysmorphologist
- Otolaryngologist
- Neurologist
- Endocrinologist
- Geneticist
- Speech-Language Pathologist
- Immunologist
Medication
No medications have been approved specifically to treat FAS.
However, several medications can help to improve some of the symptoms of FAS, such as high energy levels, depression, and an inability to focus. Medications affect each child differently, so it is extremely important to work with their doctor to find the medication and dosage regimen that works best for them.
Stimulants
Stimulants are used to treat symptoms such as hyperactivity, problems paying attention, and poor impulse control. They can also be used for other behavioral issues.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are used to treat symptoms such as sad mood, sleep problems, loss of interest, school disruption, negativity, irritability, aggression, and anti-social behaviours.
Neuroleptics
Neuroleptics are used to treat symptoms such as aggression, anxiety, and other behavioural issues.
Anti-Anxiety Drugs
Anti-Anxiety Drugs are used to treat the symptoms of anxiety
Behaviour and Education Therapy
Children with FAS often have learning and behavioural issues.
Children with FAS typically have difficulty learning subtle social skills from their own experiences. Programs exist that use a group format to teach children with FAS age-appropriate skills, such as how to slip into a group, appropriate sharing, and dealing with teasing. Children with FAS often also have impairments in behaviour regulation and executive functioning. This can been addressed using neurocognitive habilitation programs which are designed to teach children awareness of their current behavioural state, as well as specific techniques to optimize that state for the current situation.
In addition, it has been consistently reported that children with FAS have deficits in mathematical functioning. There are educational therapy programs that are specifically designed for children with FAS to help improve their mathematical knowledge and skill.
Parent Training
Children with FAS do not typically respond to the usual parenting practices.
As a result, parental training exists to educate parents how to best interact with and care for their child with FAS. Training teaches parents about the disability, ways to teach their child many skills, and how to deal with the challenges that come with having an FAS child. This training is offered by therapists or in special classes, and it can be done in groups or with individual families.
Although the challenges associated with each child is unique, the following parenting tips can be helpful:
- Focus on your child’s strengths and talents
- Accept your child’s limitations
- Consistency in everything is key (discipline, school, routines, behaviours, etc.)
- Say exactly what you mean, and use concrete language and examples
- Use positive reinforcement often
- Use visual aids, music, and hands-on activities to enhance your child’s learning
Due to the difficulties that arise with FAS, support groups exist where parents of children with FAS can meet to express concerns, ask questions, and find encouragement. Support can also be found from a therapist or family counselor.