Autism is a serious disorder of childhood that begins early in life and results in major disturbances in learning, communication and behavior.

The word “autism” was originally defined as an “introspective life”, but now describes children who are aloof, fail to communicate, learn poorly and have anxious and fearful temperaments.  Autism is currently understood to be a collection of symptoms with varying severity so that it is described as a spectrum of diagnoses or disorders.

What are the causes?

The cause of autism is unknown. Some claim immunizations to be the culprit while others point to environmental toxins such as mercury. Mounting evidence, based on worldwide research, suggests a strong connection to some difficulty in the genetic code. Whatever the cause, autism is apparently increasing in incidence. In many areas of the world it may be as prevalent at one case in every 1500 or so births. Boys seem to be affected more than girls.

The following points will prove helpful for parents everywhere who are seeking more information about this troubling condition affecting so many of our children.

Behaviors to look out for:

• Infants who fail to smile or cuddle.
• Failure to develop language. Inability to say words or speak in sentences.
• Inability to relate in a warm or reciprocal manner with parents.
• Self-stimulating behavior such as head banging or rhythmic rocking.
• Unprovoked outbursts of anger
• Poor or no eye contact.
• Apparent lack of enjoyment in play or with toys.
• May at times have repetitive forms of language – repeating same words or phrases.
• Obsessive attention to an object or idea.
• In some instances, uncanny memory for irrelevant events or data, such as being able to recall the numbers on the cars of a passing train.
• Development of combative behavior with increasing age.

Treatment:

Intervention should be started as early as any of the above symptoms are noted. There are three areas on which treatment or management should be focused:

• Language
• Learning
• Behavior

Call the Doctor if:

• An infant does not respond to stimulation, cuddling or spoken words.
• Language milestones are not being met.
• Temperamental outbursts occur with no known reason.
• Developmental milestones of all sorts are delayed

Autism is a severe disorder. Evidence now suggests that if early intervention for management of behavior and stimulation of language is provided, improved outcomes may be achieved. The onset of autism may be noted as early as 3 to 6 months of age so, if you are concerned at any time about your child’s development, seek the help of those who are skilled in the field of child development. There are many ways to assess development and thus determine the difference between what is a range of normal happenings or a true delay.  So, if you are worried, ask for help. The sooner intervention begins, the more likely positive steps can be taken.

Related Tips

• Asperger Syndrome
• Asperger Syndrome refers to a condition that is part of the spectrum of autism disorders.
• more