ASD, often known as autism spectrum disorder, is a general term used to describe a group of disorders marked by difficulties with speech, nonverbal communication, repetitive activities, and social skills. Every person with autism has a unique blend of strengths and limitations, and autism manifests differently in each individual. While some autistic individuals are silent or very outspoken and communicate in other ways, others can speak. While some people may not have intellectual impairments, others do. Some children with autism live completely independently, while others require a great deal of support in their everyday lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ASD affects around one out of every 44 eight-year-old children.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty in social interaction and communication.
- Difficulty using and comprehending nonverbal communication such as eye contact, gestures, and facial expressions.
- Delayed milestones or language development.
- Difficulty making connections or interacting with peers.
- Repetitive motor actions include flapping arms, body swaying, and repeated talking or play.
- Routines and sameness.
- Passionate or uncommon hobbies.
- Sensitive to environmental stimuli like intolerance of loud noises, light, temperature etc.
Causes:
There’s no known cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder, however, research suggests that genetic and environmental factors play an important role in a person’s susceptibility to ASD. children who have a family history of autism are more at risk. Evidence indicates that 10% - 20% of cases include genetic causes and hereditary. People often believe that vaccines cause autism but there is no scientific evidence that supports the idea of vaccines as a cause of autism.
Treatment:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically a lifelong condition with no cure; however, your child's symptoms may become milder as they age. Autism treatment includes behavioral interventions or therapies that teach new skills to address the core deficits of autism and reduce the core symptoms. Because each child with autism is unique, your child will receive an individualized treatment plan to meet their specific needs. Early intervention is crucial to provide the right kind of treatment and manage the condition better.
