Certain signs of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) may be difficult to determine at birth. Some FAS facial abnormalities (e.g., a small, upturned nose) may be difficult to distinguish from normal facial features. Also, some signs are not noticeable until a child gets older (e.g., impaired motor skills, learning difficulties).

Parents who believe their infant may have been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy should consult their pediatrician. Signs that an infant may have FAS or another type of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder include:

• Small head circumference
• Low birthweight
• Slow development
• Poor sucking
• Poor sleep-wake cycles
• Sensitivity to light, noises and touch
• Extreme irritability or fussiness
• Dysfunction of the eustachian tubes in the ear