The term “autism” is, often regarded as a disorder, but the neurodiversity model challenges this idea, holding that autism is a part of the human biodiversity, and therefore is not a disorder. Like ethnicity and sexual orientation, which have pathologized in the past, autism as a disorder represents a value judgment rather than a scientific fact.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of autism include difficulty with social interaction and making friends. Children with autism are not able to use imaginative play, make group games, or express their interests in a creative way. They do not understand basic directions and often use third-person pronouns. They may also have a very rigid routine and may not be able to adapt to change.
A physician or psychologist will make a diagnosis of autism by using a checklist to assess the severity of symptoms. The severity of the symptoms will indicate the amount of support the child needs for day-to-day living. Some people with autism may also have sensory issues that lead to over or under-sensitivity to certain types of stimuli. Children with autism are also more likely to develop certain physical and mental conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
Children with autism may experience problems with language and social interaction, and may have difficulty in recognizing words. More severe cases usually begin to show language delays in their preschool years. Higher-functioning children are generally, diagnosed at age four or five. Although autism can affect a child’s entire life, many people with the disorder can learn to control their behavior to a certain extent.
The first sign of autism is not always obvious and the diagnosis process is lengthy. For this reason, it is recommended that parents seek early intervention services. These services are federally funded and designed to help parents identify and address possible disabilities in infants and toddlers. Early intervention can be helpful in a child’s early development and help prevent the child from developing into a more severe condition.
While symptoms of autism often emerge between the ages of two and six, it is crucial that parents recognize early warning signs. Children with autism often lack typical behaviors and engage in repetitive behavior. It is important to note that these behaviors may indicate a problem that needs immediate treatment. Even the most mild symptoms of autism can treat through intensive therapy.
Adults with autism may also have difficulties with communication and understanding others. They may have difficulty understanding other people’s emotions and may engage in repetitive behaviors. Although autistic adults can diagnose with autism at any age, the earlier they identifiy, the sooner they can receive the proper care and treatment.
Causes
Although there is a growing body of evidence linking certain chromosome abnormalities with autism, the causes are largely unknown. One possibility is genetics. The majority of children inherit genetic material from both parents, but in rare cases, some of the genes are altered. This alteration, known as a de novo mutation, affects the way the brain develops. Environmental factors can also contribute to autism. However, no study has been able to examine the genomes of thousands of people.
Preterm birth is another risk factor for autism. The risk of autism is approximately one-third higher in babies born prematurely than in those who were not preterm. Also, mothers who contract viral infections during pregnancy are at increased risk. Women with high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and abnormal bleeding also increase their risk.
Some researchers believe that stress is a possible cause of autism. Stress and psychosocial events may have a greater impact on autistic children than on other children. However, a subgroup of autistic children are less affected by psychosocial stress than other children. Catatonia is also a possible cause of autism. Moreover, stress can lead to seizures and regression.
Research has also shown that genetics are not the sole cause of autism. Environmental factors such as air pollution, diet, and genetics are also believed to play a role in the development of the brain. Although many genetic and environmental factors are associated with autism, there is no solid evidence linking the two factors. This is why many scientists say that autism has multiple causes.
Modern farming practices, food production, and vaccinations may expose children to environmental chemicals that contribute to the development of ASD. Research suggests that these chemicals interfere with the development of the central nervous system and related bodily systems. This is particularly problematic when combined with other risk factors. It is important to understand these variables and take necessary precautions to minimize the exposure of children to them.
Infections during pregnancy can also contribute to the development of autism in children. Whether the infection is minor or severe, infections can affect the availability of serotonin to the baby. Research shows that infections during pregnancy also lead to the release of inflammatory proteins in the mother’s body. This decreases the serotonin level, a key hormone for brain development.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatment options available for children with autism. The most popular forms of treatment include behavioural interventions, which are designed to help children with autism improve their social skills and communication. They use techniques such as applied behavior analysis to teach children new skills, as well as reward systems to help children learn and generalize new behaviors. Early intensive behavioral interventions are, designed to help children with autism develop social skills while decreasing negative behaviors. The effectiveness of these programs depends on the age and developmental needs of the child.
Occupational therapy (OT) for children with autism can be provided privately or through a statewide early childhood intervention program. Some forms of OT are required by public law, and many are covered by private insurance and Medicaid. Occupational therapy for children with autism focuses on augmenting educational goals, such as improving handwriting and taking notes. Private therapy, on the other hand, may focus on more medical interventions.
Nonpharmacological interventions for autism include music therapy, play therapy, applied behavior analysis, and relationship development interventions. Studies need to determine which types of therapies produce the most effective results. Unlike prescription drugs, nonpharmacological treatments do not come with adverse side effects or interactions. Therefore, patients are more likely to accept them.
Once a child begins school, he or she will probably spend a lot less time in formal treatment. Targeted intervention programs typically account for 10 to 25 hours of therapy per week, and they often occur after school or on weekends. Children may be in targeted intervention programs for several years. Once they reach middle or high school, they may continue on to a more advanced behavioral therapy that targets adult skills and advanced social interactions.
Medications are also an option for children with ASD. Some of these medications can help manage symptoms, such as aggression and irritability. However, it is important to consult a health care professional before using any of these drugs.
Comorbidities
Comorbidities of autism are medical conditions that coexist with the primary diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. When these conditions are diagnosed and treated early, they may reduce or even eliminate symptoms. They may also lead to better quality of life for those diagnosed. A recent study in Sweden, found that nearly 50% of 9-year-old children with autism were, also diagnosed with four or more comorbid conditions, compared to only 4% of those with ASD alone. This suggests that early detection and treatment is essential for healthy aging.
A study has found that 42% of adult Americans have multiple chronic conditions. More than 70% of Medicare spending is, devoted to people with multiple chronic disorders. In addition, a recent population-based survey in Sweden found that 50% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (9-year-old twins born between 1992 and 2001) had four or more comorbid medical conditions. In comparison, only 4% of these individuals did not have a concomitant disorder. These data highlight the importance of considering comorbidity patterns in autism diagnosis and treatment.
A common problem in the diagnosis of autism is that it is often mistaken for another mental disorder. Autism is a developmental disorder and can confuse with an intellectual disability. Comorbidities include psychiatric disorders, neurological problems, and gastrointestinal problems. In addition, some autism patients exhibit behaviors that resemble those of individuals with ADHD, OCD, and depression. Proper diagnosis and management of comorbidity can improve an autistic patient’s life.
Epilepsy is another comorbidity, associated with autism spectrum disorder. While the risk of developing epilepsy varies according to age, cognitive level, and type of language disorder, it is, estimated that about one in four autistic children will experience seizures during their lifetime. Seizures cause by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They can result in loss of consciousness, body convulsions, or both. Seizures can also cause by sleep deprivation, or a high fever. Seizures are, diagnosed with an EEG (electrographical graphical examination of the brain). They are more common in females and in children with other comorbidities.
Researchers have found that the use of medications for comorbidities in individuals with ASD varies considerably. The study also suggests that medications for comorbidities are most often prescribed to treat symptoms associated with ASD. However, more research needs to assess the effects of these medications on individuals with autism.
