What is autism?

Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder, is a complex condition that includes communication and behavioral problems. This may include a wide range of symptoms and skills. Autism Spectrum Disorders can be minor conditions or disabilities that require ongoing institutional care.

People with autism have communication problems. They find it difficult to understand what other people think and feel. This makes it difficult for them to express themselves, whether in words or gestures, facial expressions and touch.

People with autism may have learning problems. Their skills may develop unevenly. For example, they may have communication problems but are exceptionally good at art, music, math, or memory. For this reason, they can be especially good in analytical or problem-solving tests.

Today, more children are being diagnosed with autism than ever before. But the latest numbers may be higher due to changes in diagnosis, not because more children have the disorder.

Signs and symptoms of autism

Autism symptoms usually appear before the age of 3 years. Some people show signs from birth.

Common symptoms of autism include:

A lack of eye contact
A narrow range of interests or intense interest in certain topics
Doing something over and over, like repeating words or phrases, rocking back and forth, or flipping a lever
High sensitivity to sounds, touches, smells, or sights that seem ordinary to other people
Not looking at or listening to other people
Not looking at things when another person points at them
Not wanting to be held or cuddled
Problems understanding or using speech, gestures, facial expressions, or tone of voice
Talking in a sing-song, flat, or robotic voice
Trouble adapting to changes in routine

Some children with autism may also have seizures. They may only begin in adolescence.

Autism spectrum disorders

These types were once considered separate states. They now fall under the category of autism spectrum disorders. They understand:

Asperger's syndrome. These children do not have language problems; in fact, they tend to score average or above average on intelligence tests. But they have social problems and a narrow sphere of interests.
Autistic disorder. This is what most people think of when they hear the word autism. This refers to problems with social interactions, communication, and play in children under 3 years of age.
Childhood disintegrative disorder. These children typically develop for at least 2 years and then lose some or most of their communication and social skills.
Pervasive developmental disorder. Your doctor may use this term if your child has autistic behaviors, such as retarded social and communication skills, but does not fit into another category.

Causes of autism

The exact cause of autism is unclear. This may be due to problems in the parts of your brain that interpret sensory information and process language.

Autism is four times more common in boys than girls. It can occur in people of any race, ethnicity, or social background. Family income, lifestyle, or level of education do not affect a child's risk of developing autism.

Autism is inherited, so certain combinations of genes can increase a child's risk.

The child of an older parent has an increased risk of autism.

If a pregnant woman is exposed to certain drugs or chemicals, such as alcohol or anti-epileptic drugs, her child is more likely to develop autism. Other risk factors include maternal metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Research has also linked autism to untreated phenylketonuria and rubella.

There is no evidence that vaccines cause autism.

Screening and diagnosis of autism

Making an accurate diagnosis of autism can be difficult. Your doctor will focus on behavior and development.

In children, the diagnosis is usually made in two stages.

A developmental screening will show your doctor if your child is doing well with basic skills such as learning, speech, behavior and movement. Experts suggest checking babies for these developmental delays during their regular checkups at 9 months, 18 months, and 24 or 30 months. Children are regularly tested specifically for autism during checkups at 18 and 24 months.
If your child shows signs of a problem during these examinations, they will need a more comprehensive assessment. This may include hearing and vision testing or genetic testing. Your doctor may want to involve someone who specializes in autism disorders, such as a pediatrician or child psychologist.

If you were not diagnosed with autism as a child, but notice that you have signs or symptoms, talk to your doctor.

Autism treatment

There is no cure for autism. But early treatment can make a big difference in the development of an autistic child. If you think your child has symptoms of an autism spectrum disorder, tell your doctor as soon as possible.

What works for one person may not work for another. Your doctor should tailor the treatment for you or your child. Two main types of treatment:

Behavioral and communication therapy to help with structure and organization. Applied Behavior Analysis is one such treatment; it promotes positive behavior and discourages negative behavior. Occupational therapy can help develop life skills such as dressing, eating, and interacting with people. Sensory Integration Therapy can help those who have problems with touch, sight, or sound. Speech therapy improves communication skills.

Medications to relieve symptoms of autism spectrum disorders such as attention problems, hyperactivity, or anxiety.

Talk to your doctor before trying something else, like a special diet.