Neonatal abstinence syndrome
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (pronunciation: nee-oh-NAY-tuhl AB-stuh-nuhns SIN-drohm) is a condition that occurs in newborns who have been exposed to addictive opiate drugs while in the mother's womb.
Etymology
The term "Neonatal" is derived from the Greek words "neos" meaning new, and "natal" meaning birth. "Abstinence" comes from the Latin "abstinere", meaning to withhold, and "syndrome" from the Greek "syndromos", meaning running together, used to describe a group of symptoms that collectively indicate a particular disease.
Definition
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) is a group of problems that occur in a newborn who was exposed to addictive opiate drugs while in the mother's womb. NAS can occur when a pregnant woman takes drugs such as heroin, codeine, oxycodone (Oxycontin), methadone or buprenorphine. These substances pass through the placenta to the baby during pregnancy, causing the baby to become addicted along with the mother.
Symptoms
Symptoms of NAS may include excessive crying, fever, irritability, seizures, slow weight gain, and tremors. In addition, babies with NAS are often born prematurely, which can lead to further complications.
Treatment
Treatment for NAS may include medication to relieve symptoms and promote the baby's normal growth and development. The specific medication will depend on the specific drug the baby was exposed to. In addition, supportive care such as swaddling, and a quiet, low-light environment can help to soothe the baby.
Related Terms
- Opiate: A drug derived from the opium poppy, or a synthetic drug with similar effects.
- Withdrawal: The process of stopping the use of a substance to which one has become addicted.
- Premature birth: A birth that occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy.
- Placenta: The organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy to provide oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neonatal abstinence syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Neonatal abstinence syndrome
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