Alcohol is a potentially addictive substance that, if consumed in excess, can pose a serious threat to the human body. Even more concerning is the fact that a large number of unborn children suffer when their mothers consume minimal to massive amounts of alcoholic drinks on a daily or weekly basis. As a result of this outcome, newborns can suffer from physical deformities and long-term behavioral issues or, in the worst case scenario, die from damages sustained in the womb. These afflictions fall under the category of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), a group of illnesses and disorders that can easily be prevented.
In the category of FASDs, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) occurs when a mother drinks alcohol while she is pregnant, ultimately triggering birth defects in her unborn baby during critical growth phases. Doctors stress the importance of avoiding alcohol altogether during pregnancy, as some of the most dangerous deformities can occur during the first trimester of development. During this time, children have not yet developed a fully functioning liver (a natural safeguard against alcohol in mature humans) and cannot filter the toxins they absorb from their mothers. Additional FASDs include Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND) and alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD).
Children who suffer from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome will typically experience:
- Insomnia and improper suckling during infancy
- Stunted growth and small head
- Erratic behavior and lack of concentration
- Low IQ and learning disorders
- Uncoordinated walking
Disturbingly, health experts believe these disorders may be more common than originally perceived. Recent studies have shown that 1 to 5% of first-grade students in four communities in the United States suffered from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. What makes the situation even more complex is the fact that doctors have a hard time distinguishing FASD symptoms from behavioral issues caused by ADHD or ADD.
There is only one obvious way to prevent this terrible illness: never drink alcohol if you are pregnant or are attempting to become pregnant. Reports indicate 50% of pregnancies in the United States are not planned, possibly increasing the risks of babies contracting FASDs. Alcohol can be consumed in moderation, but not at the risk of an unborn child.
Remember that there is always hope for you. Drugs do not have control over your life. You do. If you are suffering from alcoholism or alcohol abuse, get in touch with Asana Recovery. Counselors and healthcare experts can walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and help guide you to a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While it might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to keep you and your unborn child safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol addiction troubles today.
