April is a time to mark Autism Awareness Month, which brings the world’s attention to autism spectrum disorders & other developmental disabilities. We must spread awareness of this issue to emphasize the importance of early detection, treatment, education & research for autistic children worldwide.
As National Autism Awareness Month 2023 approaches its 51st anniversary, it’s the ideal opportunity to spread critical information about autism with parents, guardians & other curious individuals.
To gain a deeper understanding of ASD & interesting facts about autism in general, take some time out of your day & read this article.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a wide-ranging developmental disability that can cause substantial behavioral, social connection & communication issues. Those with ASD often look just like everyone else but may act, interact & learn in unique ways compared to those without the condition. For some individuals with ASD, daily life requires considerable assistance, while others require little or no support.
Diagnoses of autism spectrum disorders encompass a wide range of conditions that were once recognized separately, such as:
- Asperger Syndrome
- Autistic disorder
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
- Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
Autistic Disorder Characteristics: Signs & Symptoms
Autism is a developmental disorder that may be diagnosed at any age. However, the symptoms of this condition are typically most evident during the first two years of life. This condition occurs along a spectrum- while each individual experiences it differently, specific difficulties are common to all those on the autism spectrum. The signs & symptoms range from mild to severe & will vary depending on whether your child is in early childhood or older stages.
For kids with autism, some of these signs may slowly appear. In addition, there are cases in which children meet average developmental milestones before their condition worsens & they lose the skills they’ve acquired. Furthermore, individuals on the spectrum typically demonstrate increased sensitivity to external factors such as noises or lights that come from outside sources.
Early Signs of Autism
Suppose your child or infant exhibits a variety of the following characteristics. In that case, they may be at risk for an autism spectrum disorder:
- Has poor eye contact
- No cooing or babbling by 12 months
- Not smiling when you smile at them
- Failing to respond to their names by 12 months
- No motions until 12 months;
- Doesn’t utter anything until 16 months
- Any sort of deterioration while talking or babbling
- Doesn’t replicate others’ activities & sounds like clapping
- No interaction of sound until 9 months
- Repetitive behaviors include flapping hands, rocking the body, or lining up objects.
- Do not use two-word phrases independently (rather than repeating what someone says to them) for 24 months.
Characteristics of Autism Among Older Children
- Difficulty communicating with others.
- Repetition of words or phrases (echolalia)
- Inability to comprehend others’ emotions
- Keeps to themselves- doesn’t play with others
- May act without thinking about the consequences
- May become aggressive if things do not go according to plan
- Can be disturbed by slight changes in the atmosphere or routine
- Faces problems staying on topic or do not listen when told to
- Centralizes & repeats one activity
- Difficulties in establishing & maintaining good relationships with others
- Reluctance to share individual interests or hobbies with others
- Faces trouble in conveying or understanding others stuff
Why Does Autism Occur & What Causes It?
Though the exact cause of autism is unknown, scientists agree that it is likely rooted in structural or functional abnormalities within the brain. Advances in research have highlighted potential genetic influences & environmental factors, such as prenatal stressors, that may contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Brain scans can often reveal distinct differences between those with ASD & neurotypical children, providing further evidence for its neurological origins.
Some other research suggests that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with an abnormality in serotonin & other neurotransmitters, which may interfere with the brain’s development during fetal growth. This disruption can be due to genetic & environmental factors, thereby creating a real challenge for individuals living with ASD.
Another pertinent point is that the common belief that vaccines cause autism is entirely inaccurate. There is no proof linking childhood vaccinations & autism, as continuous research on ASD causes progresses toward more effective treatments in the future.
Childhood Autism: How Is It Diagnosed?
Don’t wait any longer – take the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in ToddlersTM) online screening to quickly determine if your child could be at risk of autism. If your answers indicate a heightened likelihood, don’t hesitate to reach their doctor immediately. Likewise, if you have any other developmental concerns about your little one, contact our healthcare professionals at Theracare Pediatric Services immediately & discuss an autism evaluation!
The diagnosis of ASD can be a complex process due to the range of affective conditions it encompasses. Unfortunately, there’s no medical test for this condition; rather, doctors must rely solely on behavioral observations & developmental milestones to assess.
During the evaluation, your child will undergo an extensive screening, including physical & neurological exams, to assess motor skills & social abilities. Through these examinations, the doctor can evaluate whether any abnormalities are present.
Furthermore, the medical professional will evaluate a child’s conduct & discern how well they can look someone in the eye while talking. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of them, it is commonplace for doctors to observe children in their natural settings, such as at home or school.
In addition, several healthcare practitioners administer diagnostic assessments to recognize any language or cognitive disabilities present.
If your child is identified to have signs of autism during this evaluation, further testing will be requested by the doctor. This procedure will eliminate symptoms like ADHD, hearing loss, vision issues, mental retardation, and/or epilepsy.
After a confirmed diagnosis of autism has been established, your doctor shall refer you to a specialized group consisting of leading experts in childhood autism – including:
- Developmental pediatrician
- A child psychiatrist or psychologist
- Speech therapist
- Physical therapist
- Occupational therapist
Different Therapies & Interventions Are Available for Children with Autism
Early intervention is absolutely essential in autism spectrum disorder treatment. Although there isn’t one remedy for ASD, many interventions & therapies are available to help kids reach their full potential. Every child with autism has distinct needs, so a single approach will not be effective across the board.
However, treatments tend to focus on enhancing communication, social interactions & behavior through customizable methods. A few types of interventions include:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Floortime or developmental individual relationship-based model (DIR)
- Diet or Nutritional therapy
- Integrated play groups (IPGs)
- Speech & language therapy
- Medication treatment
- Social Skills Training
- Occupational therapy
- Educational support
Early Intervention Is Key!
Don’t wait – give your child the opportunity to reach their highest potential, even with autism! Early diagnosis & intervention, along with comprehensive treatments & support for people with ASD & their families, can make a world of difference. If you suspect your child may be showing signs of autism, contact Theracare Pediatric Services immediately!
Call us at (602) 875-5616 or book an appointment online so we can help ensure that your little one is getting the assistance they need.
Unlock Your Child’s Potential With Theracare Pediatric Services
At Theracare Pediatric Services, our experienced & compassionate staff will work closely with you, assisting your entire household on their individualized path toward success. Our decades of experience & expertise mean we can provide each child a tailored service that meets their needs.
We go beyond traditional autism therapy services & open up opportunities for growth through unique experiences. With us, you don’t just get inspiration—you get possibilities!
Reach out today to discover how we can help improve the lives of children struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorder!
