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Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a complex condition characterized by communication and behavioral issues. It can include a wide variety of symptoms and abilities. ASD can be a minor issue or a disability requiring full-time care in a specialized facility.
Autistic people have difficulty communicating. They have difficulty understanding what other people are thinking and feeling. This makes it difficult for them to express themselves verbally or through gestures, facial expressions, and touch.
Autistic people may struggle with learning. Their abilities may develop in a haphazard manner. For example, they may struggle to communicate but excel at art, music, math, or memory. As a result, they may perform particularly well on analytical or problem-solving tests.
Autism is now being diagnosed in more children than ever before. However, the most recent figures could be higher due to changes in how the disorder is diagnosed, not because more children have it.
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF AUTISM?
What Are the Different Kinds of Autism Spectrum Disorders?
These were once thought to be distinct conditions. They now fall into the category of autism spectrum disorders, which includes:
- Asperger's syndrome: These children do not struggle with language; in fact, on intelligence tests, they tend to score in the average or above-average range. They do, however, have social issues and a limited range of interests.
- Autistic disorder: When most people hear the word "autism," they immediately think of this. It refers to difficulties with social interactions, communication, and play in children under the age of three.
- Disintegrative disorder in childhood: These children develop normally for at least two years before losing some or all of their communication and social skills.
- Atypical autism or pervasive developmental disorder (PDD): If your child exhibits some autistic behavior, such as delays in social and communication skills, but does not fit into another category, your doctor may use this term.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF AUTISM?
Autism symptoms usually appear before a child reaches the age of three. Some people exhibit symptoms from birth.
- Not paying attention to or listening to others
- Not looking at things when they are pointed out to you.
- Refusing to be held or cuddled
- Speech, gestures, facial expressions, or tone of voice comprehension or use issues
- Speaking in a sing-song, flat, or robotic tone of voice
- Having difficulty adapting to changes in routine
- a lack of eye contact
- A narrow range of interests or a strong interest in a few topics
- Repeating something, such as repeating words or phrases, rocking back and forth, or flipping a lever
- High sensitivity to sounds, touches, smells, or sights that appear ordinary to others
- Seizures can occur in some autistic children. These may not appear until adolescence.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF AUTISM?
It is unclear why autism occurs. It could be caused by issues in the areas of your brain that interpret sensory input and process language.
- Autism affects boys four times more than girls. It can happen to people of any race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. A child's risk of autism is unaffected by family income, lifestyle, or educational level. However, there are some dangers:
- Because autism runs in families, certain gene combinations may increase a child's risk.
- A child with an older parent is more likely to develop autism.
- Pregnant women who are exposed to certain drugs or chemicals, such as alcohol or anti-seizure medications, have a higher risk of having autistic children. Maternal metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity are also risk factors. Autism has also been linked to untreated phenylketonuria (also known as PKU, a metabolic disorder caused by an enzyme deficiency) and rubella (German measles).
Vaccinations do not cause autism, according to research.
HOW IS AUTISM DIAGNOSED?
It can be difficult to obtain a definitive diagnosis of autism. Your doctor's attention will be drawn to behavior and development.
Diagnosis for children usually consists of two steps.
- A developmental screening will tell your doctor if your child is on track with fundamental skills such as learning, speaking, behavior, and movement. Experts recommend that children be screened for these developmental delays at 9 months, 18 months, and 24 or 30 months of age. At their 18-month and 24-month checkups, children are routinely tested for autism.
- If your child shows signs of a problem during these screenings, they will require a more thorough evaluation. Hearing and vision tests, as well as genetic tests, may be included. Your doctor may refer you to a developmental pediatrician or a child psychologist who specializes in autism disorders. Some psychologists can also administer the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule test (ADOS).
If you were not diagnosed with autism as a child but are noticing signs or symptoms, consult your doctor.
HOW IS AUTISM TREATED?
Autism has no known cure. However, early intervention can make a significant difference in the development of an autistic child. If you suspect your child has ASD, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
What works for one person may not work for the next. Your doctor should personalize your or your child's treatment. There are two main types of treatments
- Structure and organization can be improved with behavioral and communication therapy. One of these treatments is applied behavior analysis (ABA), which encourages positive behavior while discouraging negative behavior. Occupational therapy can assist with life skills such as dressing, eating, and interacting with others. Sensory integration therapy may benefit someone who is sensitive to touch, sights, or sounds. Speech therapy helps people improve their communication skills.
- Medications to treat ASD symptoms such as attention deficits, hyperactivity, and anxiety.
Complementary therapies may help some people with autism improve their learning and communication skills. Music, art, or animal therapy, such as horseback riding or swimming with dolphins, are examples of complementary therapies.
WHAT IS THE IMPACT OF AUTISM IN CHILDREN?
Autistic children may not achieve the same developmental milestones as their peers, or they may lose previously developed social or language skills.
A 2-year-old without autism, for example, may be interested in simple make-believe games. A 4-year-old who does not have autism may enjoy participating in activities with other children. An autistic child may have difficulty interacting with others or may dislike it entirely.
Autistic children may also engage in repetitive behaviors, have difficulty sleeping, or eat nonfood items compulsively. They may struggle to thrive in the absence of a structured environment or a consistent routine.
If your child is autistic, you may need to collaborate closely with their teachers to ensure their success in school.
There are numerous resources available to assist autistic children and their loved ones. The Autism Society of America, a national nonprofit, can help you find local support groups.
WHAT IS THE IMPACT OF AUTISM ON ADULTS?
Families with autistic loved ones may be concerned about what life is like for an adult with ASD.
Some autistic adults go on to live and work on their own. Others may require ongoing assistance or support for the rest of their lives. Each autistic person is unique.
Autistic people are sometimes not diagnosed until they are much older. This is due, in part, to a previous lack of awareness among physicians.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ADHD AND AUTISM?
Autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are frequently confused.
Children with ADHD frequently struggle with fidgeting, concentrating, and maintaining eye contact with others. Some autistic people exhibit these symptoms as well.
Despite some resemblances, ADHD is not classified as a spectrum disorder. One significant distinction between the two is that people with ADHD do not typically lack socio-communicative skills.
If you suspect your child is hyperactive, consult with their doctor about ADHD testing. Obtaining a clear diagnosis is critical to ensuring that your child receives the appropriate care.
It is also possible for a person to have autism as well as ADHD. Investigate the connection between autism and ADHD.
CONCLUSION
Early and intensive behavioral support is required in the most effective therapies. The earlier a child enrolls in these programs, the better his or her chances.
Remember, ASD is a complex disorder. It takes time for an autistic person, whether a child or an adult, to find the best support program for them.