Autism spectrum disorder symptoms & treatment | HealthStub

 

Autism Spectrum Disorder 

Of the many developmental disorders in children, autism is the most common brain disorder. According to the Indian Scale Assessment of Autism, about 2 million children in India have autism. The Autism Society of America (ASA) defines it as a complex developmental disorder that begins to show signs in the first three years of life. Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that interferes with the normal functioning of the brain. It negatively impacts a child's communication skills as well as their ability to interact with people.Autism cannot be diagnosed for 18 months and the ideal time to start treatment is one to two years. This is the best time because almost 80% of the brain develops in the first 36 months (three years). Unfortunately, due to limited knowledge, parents start treatment late and it becomes difficult for the child to overcome the complexities. Early intervention can prevent disabilities in infants and toddlers. It's also important to note that autism has multiple spectra. No child with autism will be the same. Every child with autism is on a different spectrums. The social stigma associated with autism makes it difficult for children and adults. There is a mindset towards people with disabilities. People often watch and are callous to children with autism. And for the same reason, parents do not allow their children to mingle with other children. They end up becoming outcasts and making it more difficult for both the child and the parents. In addition, the mismatch between the expectations of parents and therapists is a major challenge. Parents should understand that since two children with autism are not alike, their improvement and progress will vary as well. There is no quick fix for autism, so it's important for parents to set correct expectations. Coherent therapy is the best way to help the child.

Autism Causes & Symptoms

Until recently, the causes of autism spectrum disorder were not known, but now more and more research is trying to identify the triggers of the disease. Certain rare genetic mutations, environmental stresses, the age of the parents at the time of conception, maternal illnesses during pregnancy, difficulties during birth, oxygen deprivation in the child's brain, among many other factors, can contribute to the development of the disease.

Autism does not have a single reason that can be responsible for its appearance. Research shows that abnormalities in brain structure and function can often be the cause of autism. However, hereditary, genetic and medical medical issues have yet to be confirmed.

Numerous studies have shown that genes play an essential role in the development of autism. But blaming the genes alone is wrong. This is because families of children with autism can suffer from other types of disorders. These can range from emotional disturbances to social impairments. However, the majority of studies point to genes when it comes to the causes of autism. No gene is responsible for autism.

Since no two people with autism are exactly alike, it's hard to come up with one conclusion that may be the cause of autism. Researchers are always looking for biological factors such as problems with metabolism, immune system, brain connections, brain growth, among the possible problems responsible for autism.

Taking Antidepressants During Pregnancy May Double Your Risk for Autism

Women who take certain common antidepressants during pregnancy can be almost twice as likely to have a child with autism, a study found on Monday.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Preventions

Pregnant women should take extra precautions to prevent autism in children. These precautions include:

- Regular visits to the doctor and checking your medications: In order to prevent autism, it is important to take your medical examinations and your medications seriously during your pregnancy. This will help you keep track of all the changes in your body and the baby's body. It is also a key moment, because the habits that you will adopt during your pregnancy will ultimately be responsible for your child's brain development.

- Less exposure to air pollution: A study from the Haravard School of Public Health concluded that the risk of developing autism doubles in an infant in the third trimester of the mother, if she is exposed to too much pollution. The particular pollutants that are responsible for it haven't been mentioned yet, but staying indoors when pollution levels are high or sticking to exercise and indoor activities will surely help.

- Intake of folic acid, as prescribed by doctor: The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends that pregnant women consume 400 to 800 mcg of folic acid per day. Research shows that women who take less folic acid during pregnancy can cause their child to develop autism.

- Space the pregnancies: Studies have shown that pregnancies two to five years apart have the lowest risk of developing autism. Research has shown that children conceived within 12 months of the first pregnancy were 50% more likely to develop autism. The risk of autism also increases if the parents are older, so it is necessary to consult your doctor before starting a family.

- Avoid drinking alcohol and taking drugs: Using drugs and alcohol during pregnancy increases the chances that your child will develop autism. This is because the chemical property present in these two elements can seriously affect the development of a child's brain and should therefore not be consumed at all costs.

Myths about Autism

MYTH: People with autism prefer to be alone

FACT: They may have issues with their social skills and may appear unfriendly or shy, but they might have a hard time communicating their desire to build relationships.

MYTH: They can't express

FACT: People with autism feel all emotions, but they don't have the ability to communicate their emotions like other people. If you see carefully, they can emit in different ways.

MYTH: They are intellectually challenged

FACT: While there are limitations in people with autism, it also brings many exceptional abilities. Many people with autism have high IQs that are excellent in certain areas.

MYTH: Autism is caused by bad parenting

FACT: People long ago believed that autism was caused by passionate parenting (especially mothers). But that has no truth.

MYTH: Autism can never be cured

FACT: Recent research shows that autism can be managed if the first signs are diagnosed and treated. Informed intervention can help alleviate its symptoms.

Autism treatment

The type of treatment you get for autism depends on your needs because there is no one-size-fits-all solution for people with autism. Since there is a wide variety of therapies available for autism, the treatment method is generally tailored to the symptoms of the individual. For treatment to be effective, you need to understand the triggers in detail and do your research thoroughly.

Some of the more common therapies for autism include:

1. Talk therapy

2. Physiotherapy

3. Behavioral therapy

4. Occupational therapy

5. Play therapy

Drugs for Autism:

It's important to understand that there is no exact cure for autism and that no drug can treat it at the root. However, some medications can help relieve symptoms related to autism such as insomnia and depression.

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.