Neurodevelopmental Disorder Characterized by Social and Communication Challenges, Repetitive Behaviors, and Sensory Sensitivities. Effects Vary Widely Among Individuals.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals in various ways, with symptoms often appearing before the age of 3. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States have autism, which equates to around 1.7% of the child population.
ASD exists on a spectrum, with sensory, social, and communication needs varying from high to low. Some common signs and behaviors of ASD may include trouble relating to others, sensitivity to sensory input, avoiding eye contact, trouble expressing needs, repeating actions, and differences in speech tone or prosody.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for autism at all well-child visits, in addition to the standard autism-specific screens at 18 and 24 months of age. Parents are usually the first to notice developmental differences in their child and should get them evaluated by their pediatrician or an autism professional if they notice any signs. Diagnosing autism may involve discussing the individual's developmental history with parents, family members, and friends.
Diagnosing autism in older children, adolescents, and adults may require additional testing by a pediatrician or primary care doctor. Supportive services for autistic individuals may focus on specific issues such as learning, language, imitation, attention, motivation, compliance, and initiation of social interaction. These services can include therapy to help develop language and communication skills, tools to manage behavior, and social skills training.
Supportive services are frequently offered after a child receives an autism diagnosis and can continue as long as wanted and autistic individuals may decide to change or stop these services altogether. It's important to note that there's no single best way to manage autism as it is tailored to address the individual's wants and needs.
Autism healthcare professionals may use behavioral methods, communication therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and social play to help manage these issues. Some possible specialists for ASD assessment and management include developmental pediatricians, child psychologists or psychiatrists, child neurologists, physical therapists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists.
Organizations such as the Autism Society of America, Autism Self Advocacy Network, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Autism Research Institute, Sesame Street and Autism, and Wrong Planet can provide additional support and resources for individuals with autism and their families.
It's important to remember that while there's no single known cause of autism, factors that may increase a person's chance of developing the condition include having older parents, having certain genetic conditions, and having an autistic sibling. Some autistic children and adults may need support to help manage their day-to-day lives, while many autistic people don't need much, if any, support to live their daily lives.
In conclusion, understanding and supporting individuals with autism is crucial. With early detection, appropriate diagnosis, and tailored supportive services, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and productive lives.
Read also:
- Peptide YY (PYY): Exploring its Role in Appetite Suppression, Intestinal Health, and Cognitive Links
- Toddler Health: Rotavirus Signs, Origins, and Potential Complications
- Digestive issues and heart discomfort: Root causes and associated health conditions
- House Infernos: Deadly Hazards Surpassing the Flames
