Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
These days, we often hear about autism, and many films also portray characters with this disability. In this article, we’ll try to understand the causes and symptoms of autism. According to statistics from the United States, 1 out of every 36 children is autistic, and the condition is more common in boys.
Autism is called a “spectrum” because it includes a wide range of symptoms and abilities. The fundamental cause is changes in brain development. One known cause is genetics, but there are several other factors as well, such as:
Having an older sibling with autism
Certain chromosomal conditions and tuberculosis
Older parental age
Complications during birth
These are considered risk factors only. Experts are still researching to fully understand the causes of autism.
You cannot identify autistic children by their physical appearance because they look just like other children. The differences appear in their ability to learn, communicate, and interact with others. Their abilities can vary widely—some may speak very well, while others may say only a few words. Some may need help with everyday tasks, while others manage independently.
Since autism is a developmental disability, its signs appear before the age of three. Sometimes symptoms show up in the first year, while in other cases they may not appear until age two or later. A child may learn age-appropriate skills and then later lose those skills once autism symptoms begin to appear.
The most noticeable signs of autism are difficulties in social interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors.
Social Interaction Difficulties
Most babies make eye contact and respond happily to familiar faces by six months. Autistic children, however, may avoid eye contact.
Children naturally show expressions of happiness, sadness, or surprise when they see their parents or siblings. Autistic children often struggle to express such feelings.
Small children usually enjoy simple interactive games like peek-a-boo or waving bye-bye, but autistic children may not participate.
Even at age two, autistic children may not show a response when a close family member is upset or hurt.
Children normally smile at or show interest in other children and like to play with them. Autistic children often show little or no interest in other kids, even by age two.
They may also not show interest in pretend play—like acting as superheroes or playing teacher.
Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors
Autistic children may display certain repetitive behaviors or strong interests, such as:
Lining up toys or objects in a specific order and becoming upset if the order is changed
Repeating words or phrases
Playing with toys the same way each time
Becoming extremely distressed by small changes
Repetitive body movements like hand-flapping or spinning
Focusing on specific parts of toys, like wheels
Following a strict routine
They may also have other issues such as delayed language, cognitive or motor skills, unusual sleep or eating habits, seizures, stomach issues, anxiety, and fears.
Not every autistic child will show all these symptoms, and the severity can vary greatly.
Treatment Options
There are several approaches used to support autistic children, including:
Behavioural therapy
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
Social-skills training
Educational support
Psychological therapies
Medications (when needed)
Helpful Resources
pediatrics.aappublications.org
autismspeaks.org
autism-society.org |