Aspenger's Syndrome
Asperger's syndrome is a mental disorder that governs human behaviour. The milder version of autism, Asperger's is a developmental disorder. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction and non-verbal communication. Injury, whether deliberately or not, isolating yourself or becoming obsessively interested in a particular field of study, are some characteristics associated with Asperger's syndrome.
According to the National Autistic Society, Asperger's syndrome could also lead to a state of confusion and anxiety. Unlike autistic disorder, there are no significant delays in language and speech in Asperger's. There are no major delays in cognitive development or in the development of self-help / adaptive behavior skills (other than in social interactions) and curiosity about the environment in childhood. Asperger's syndrome is a pervasive developmental disorder. As noted, a person with Asperger's syndrome has difficulty communicating and socializing. He may also engage in restricted and repetitive activities and interests. Asperger's syndrome has been found to be more common in boys than in girls. Development is normal during the initial stages, but people with Asperger's syndrome lack warmth in relationships. They spend a lot of time pursuing narrow interests and are sometimes clumsy. Although this condition is called autistic psychopathology, there is no delay or general delay in language and cognitive development (like reading or math). They often come across as eccentric and lonely.
Aspengers Syndrome Causes & Symptoms
The exact causes of Asperger's syndrome are not yet known. Many studies indicate that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect brain development. Some research suggests that environmental factors such as viral or bacterial infection during maternal pregnancy or active or passive smoking may affect the fetus in the womb to cause Asperger's syndrome.
Social and behavioral difficulties have been linked to abnormalities in neural systems, which can be avoided. The condition is linked to heritability in families, thus suggesting genetic influence. It has been linked to structural abnormalities in the brain. There is little evidence to suggest an environmental influence.It has also been suggested that the older age of parents may contribute to the development of the disease, as well as infections during pregnancy.
Asperger's symptoms can appear at age three and can last a person's life. Some of the common signs and symptoms of Asperger's syndrome are:
Obsessive interests:
A child with Asperger's syndrome is usually an expert in a particular field. This can include an obsessive interest in models of different cars or bikes, trains and computers. Sometimes their obsession may seem strange to others. These interests may include obsessions with kitchen equipment and lawn mowers.People with Asperger's syndrome have exceptional knowledge of their area of interest. This is the reason why they mainly engage in interest-driven conversations.
Sensory difficulties:
People with Asperger's syndrome may also suffer from sensory problems. This means that they may have problems with any of their senses like smell, sound, taste, or touch. It would either be underdeveloped or stronger than usual. They may have different perceptions of loud noises, strong scents or smells, food textures, and bright lights.
A distinct form of speech:
Asperger's syndrome can also cause speech problems. There is no modulation of vocals, no rhythm and their tone is generally flat. Either they will speak too fast or too slowly. People with Asperger's may appear older than they really are.
They prefer social isolation:
A person with Asperger's syndrome wants to have friends and wants to engage in social conversations. But since they lack communication skills and have challenges in social interactions, they prefer to be isolated. They don't seem interested in social gatherings and keep their distance from others. Engaging in conversation with others is quite difficult for them due to their singular interest. Therefore, making friends is often a problem with people with Asperger's disease.
Social and Communication Skills:
Speaking in front of others is often difficult for people with Asperger's syndrome. Understanding gestures and facial expressions is also quite difficult. They are not good at starting a conversation or ending a discussions. Understanding funnyjokes or humorous conversations is beyond their ability.According to the Asperger Association of New England, “People with Asperger's syndrome do not perceive many of the nonverbal social cues that are transmitted to them. They may simply not be aware of this information, when the clues they notice are usually misinterpreted. This can lead to frustrating social interactions and ineffective behavioral responses."
Their set of rules and routines:
People with Asperger's syndrome often make their own rules and routines. They believe it creates less confusion and anxiety. They don't like any change or alteration in their set of models. Any change in their routine can make them restless.
According to one study, These non-functioning routines are especially important for children with Asperger's disease. Given a choice of clothing, the child could create what looks like a uniform that is worn day in and day out.
Delay in learning motor skills:
Learning motor skills such as pedaling, climbing, playing games, catching a ball or running are major challenges for people with Asperger's syndrome. The way they walk is very different and noticeable by others.
A few other conditions:
People with Asperger's syndrome are extremely active during the early stages of childhood. But when they reach adulthood, they can develop depression.
Preventions
Asperger's syndrome can be prevented with prompt diagnosis and early intervention by health experts. This is the best way to prevent the behavioral and emotional complications associated with this problem.
Behavior modification and parenting advice can also help. There are standard guidelines for medical management through psychiatric medication to control emotional / behavioral problems.In addition, mild stimulant drugs which are provided to treat restlessness, aggressiveness and attention deficit disorder are provided by people with sperger syndrome. Medicines are often combined with family and group therapy and occupational therapy interventions to improve daily life in society. Behavioral treatment aims to modify the responses of parents and teachers to the child's difficulties. The treatment aims to provide a structured environment for the children with the possibility of contingency management.
Myths About Aspengers Syndrome
MYTH: Asperger's syndrome doesn't exist.
FACT: It is a legitimate mental state and people with Asperger's syndrome exist.
MYTH: Asperger's syndrome is a disease
FACT: Asperger's syndrome is not a disease. It is a neurological condition that affects the processing of information in children. It also has an impact on their reaction to the environment and to others.
MYTH: Asperger's syndrome is the result of exposure to vaccines
FACT: Numerous studies have been conducted to analyze the link between vaccination and Asperger's syndrome. But no study has ever found a link between the two. According to the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control, the vaccination is safe and has no connection with Asperger's disease.
MYTH: People with Asperger's want to be cured ASAP
FACT: It has been observed that children do not consider themselves "sick" if they suffer from this syndrome. They see this syndrome as an important part of their identity.
MYTH: People with Asperger's Syndrome have high IQs
FACT: There are a few cases where people with Asperger's syndrome have above average intelligence. But many can have normal IQ levels.
MYTH: Asperger's Syndrome Makes People Mentally Retarded
FACT: Asperger's syndrome doesn't make people mentally retarded. They have normal intelligence and may lack cognitive skill.
MYTH: People with Asperger's syndrome are violent.
FACT: People with Asperger's syndrome are not prone to violence. Asperger's is a mental disorder that affects the victim's social interaction and communication skills, but does not make it violent.
Aspengers Syndrome Treatment
There is no drug approved by the FDA that can help cure autism spectrum disorders, however, some medications can help treat symptoms such as anxiety and depression. The doctor may try to suggest therapies to reduce the child's ability to function and learn. Starting treatment at an early age can help the child learn to communicate and deliver functional and behavioral skills in a better way.
Treatments can include:
Behavioral and Communication Therapies: Behavioral and Communication Therapy is a must for children associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Educational Therapies:
A structured program is needed for children with this disorder to develop learning skills.
Medication:
So far, there is no medication that can help treat autism spectrum disorders, but some medications can help control symptoms. Antipsychotics are used to treat behavioral problems and antidepressants may be prescribed to treat anxiety.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article should not be taken as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your treating physician for further details.
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