Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD ) is a complex neurobehavioral disorder characterized by impairment in reciprocal social interaction, impairment in communication, the presence of repetitive and stereotypic patterns of behaviors, interests, and activities. The onset of these symptoms is typically before the age of 3 years.
About 1 in 36 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to estimates from CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. ASD is reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. ASD is nearly 4 times more common among boys than among girls.
People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction. For instance, they will avoid or not keep eye contact, they may not respond to their name by 9 months of age, they will not play simple interactive games, like pat-a-cake, by 12 months of age and they may not point out to you something interesting by 18 months of age.
The signs and symptoms of people with ASD often have restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. For example, they will become upset by minor changes, they must follow certain routines. They will flap their hands, rock their body, spin in circles, and repeat words or phrases over and over. Some people with ASD may also have other characteristics like delayed language and movement skills. They could experience anxiety, stress, or excessive worry. They can tend to have a lack of fear or possibly even more fear than expected. However, it is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms.
There is not just one cause of ASD. There are many different factors that have been identified including environmental, biological, and genetic factors. The available evidence suggests that the following may put children at greater risk for developing ASD. If they have a sibling with ASD, or have certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis. The mother experiencing complications at their birth or being born to older parents.
Diagnosing ASD can be difficult since there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorder. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis. ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months of age or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until they are much older. Some people are not diagnosed until they are adolescents or adults. This delay means that people with ASD might not get the early help they need.
- Current treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) seek to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. There are many types of treatments available. These treatments generally can be broken down into the following categories, although some treatments involve more than one approach.
- Behavioral
- Developmental
- Educational
- Social-Relational
- Pharmacological
- Psychological
- Complementary and Alternative
As a parent, you already have what it takes to help your young child learn and grow. If you are concerned by the development of your child, the CDC has developed materials to help you track your child’s developmental milestones and share that progress, or any concerns, with your child’s doctor at every check-up.
If you believe we can help you, please give us a call at 772-932-9310, or go to our website at www.hobesoundprimarycare.com to schedule your appointment. We look forward to being of service to you.
