ASD or Autism Spectrum Disorder stands for a group of neurodevelopmental disorders distinguished by communication disturbances and impaired social functioning. As of now, the exact causes of autism aren’t known to us, but we assume that it’s caused by genetic and environmental factors.

Signs of Autism

The symptoms of autism become noticeable between one and two years of age. Nevertheless, they may also become noticeable later or earlier in a child’s life. A delay in social or language development is one of the early symptoms. Autism symptoms are generally divided into two categories: repetitive or restricted patterns of experiences or behavior and problems with communication and social interaction.

Repetitive or restricted patterns of behavior:

•         Strict adherence to particular behaviors or routines
•         Repetitive movements
•         Interests that are obsessively focused on particular activities
•         Responsiveness to sensory information originating from their surroundings

Issues with social interaction and communication:

•         Problems with nonverbal communication
•         Problems with communication
•         Difficulties building and maintaining relationships

Roots of Autism

As I mentioned earlier, we don’t know the exact causes of autism. Its suspected risk factors include:

•         Genetic mutations
•         Having a family member with autism
•         Having elderly parents
•         Fragile X syndrome or other genetic disorders
•         Chemical and metabolic imbalances
•         Having low birth weight
•         Exposure to Thalomid (thalidomide) or Depakene (valproic acid) as a fetus
•         Past cases of viral infections
•         Getting exposed to environmental toxins

Diagnosis of Autism

ASD’s diagnosis includes several evaluations, genetic tests, and screenings. In our opinion, all children should go through ASD screening between eighteen and twenty-four months of age.

Most pediatricians use the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) screening tool. It comprises a 23-question survey that parents must fill out. Then pediatricians use the information to spot children that might be at the risk of having Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Screening and diagnosis are two different things. To determine whether or not a child has autism, we suggest a blend of tests, including:

•         Behavioral evaluations
•         DNA testing
•         Questionnaires, such as the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule)
•         Occupational therapy screening
•         Audio and visual tests

A team of specialists like speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, child psychologists, or psychometrists generally administer these exams.

Treatment of Autism

Sadly, autism doesn’t have a cure at this time. However, people can use many therapies to deal with the disorder. Usual therapies include:

•         Play therapy
•         Behavioral therapy
•         Speech therapy
•         Physical therapy
•         Occupational therapy

Summing Up

ASD or Autism Spectrum Disorder cannot be cured. However, thorough and early behavioral interventions can help children and parents learn how to manage the disorder in a better manner. The earlier Autism Spectrum Disorder is identified, the better the results. Autism comes with complexities, and nobody knows everything about it. Researchers are working nonstop to identify a way to treat and stop this disorder.