For this series, I only intend to do one condition per alphabet letter but since April is Autism Awareness month, I thought it was important to spread the awareness and shed some light on a sometimes mysterious condition.
What is it?
Autism is a set of complex disorders related to brain development. There is a spectrum of disorders and symptoms can vary between each person. Those who fall within the spectrum often have social and communication difficulties and exhibit repetitive behaviors and difficulties with motor coordination. Signs and symptoms are typically first noticed within the toddler years.
How common is it?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 88 children in America fall within the autism spectrum. This is a ten-fold increase within the past 40 years. Autism is significantly more common in boys than girls (1 out of every 54 American boys vs. 1 out of every 252 girls).
Signs and Symptoms
Those with autism typically have difficulty in both verbal and nonverbal communications. This can include not making eye contact when talking, not responding to his/her name, resisting cuddling/touch, appearing to not hear you at times, lack of awareness of others' feelings, lack of understanding of simple sentences, and speaking in unusual tones.
Motor coordination can also be a sign of autism. This can include difficulty in dressing oneself, learning to ride a tricycle, and awkwardness in walking or running.
Repetition is another sign of many children on the spectrum. Activities such as rocking, spinning, and headbanging are potential signs. Repetition by means of routine is also common and deviation from the routine can be overwhelming for some children. Some children become fixated on a specific part of a toy (like the wheels of a truck) and will only play with that portion of the toy.
Unusual food preferences, outside of the typical toddler food aversions, can sometimes be seen. This may be a preference or aversion to certain textures or food colors or preference for eating non-food items (also called "pica").
Autism research is developing every day but our knowledge of the disorder and how it affects people is still somewhat limited. Many children diagnosed with autism have a genetic mutation that combines with effects in the environment to produce changes in the brain chemistry. Some of the possible things that may increase the risk of having a child with autism are advanced parental age, lack of oxygen to baby's brain, and maternal illness during pregnancy. There is also potentially a link to the immune system which is being studied in more depth. Women are advised to take the recommended 600 micrograms of folic acid daily both before and after conception.
Treatment
Treatment plans will vary for each individual but plans will involve the entire family and likely include intensive therapy in the beginning that will often taper a little over time. Depending on the individual, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and/or medications may be prescribed. Since many of those on the autism spectrum often suffer from other medical conditions such as gastrointestinal problems or sleep disturbances, the comprehensive treatment plan will take all of these factors into account when determining the best course of action.
When should I see a doctor?
If you suspect your child may have some form of autism, you should schedule an appointment with your pediatrician. Your pediatrician may refer you to an occupational therapist for a screening or evaluation. Early intervention is critical in helping children and their families adapt so seek professional help sooner rather than later.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
Ask your doctor her opinion to the behaviors you have noticed. Make a note of the behaviors and document the frequency and what triggers may set off the unusual behavior. Take photos or videos if appropriate. Discuss your concerns and if you are not comfortable with her answers, seek a second opinion. Children are our future and as children, they do not have a voice to speak for themselves and seek the help they may need so be a good advocate for your child.
Where can I learn more?
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