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Have you ever seen a kid who appears not to hear you at times or seems to prefer playing alone than playing with kids at his age? Please, don’t ever judge him as a naughty kid because maybe he/she is one of children with autism. Let’s recognize more about Autism.

Autism or sometimes called as Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), is a disorder that is usually first diagnosed in early childhood. It is a brain development disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, and restricted and repetitive behavior, all exhibited before a child is three years old.

The disorder occurs three to four times more often in boys than in girls. The severity of symptoms is variable. Some children with autism will grow up able to live independently, while others may always need supportive living and working environments.

If your child has autism, he or she may develop normally for the first few months — or years — of life and then later become less responsive to other people, including you. Here are the most common signs and symptoms of autism.

Fails to respond to his or her name, Doesn’t make eye contact and appears not to hear you at times, Resists cuddling holding and appears unaware of others’ feelings.

Seems to prefer playing alone and moves constantly, Starts talking later than other children, Loses previously acquired ability to say words or sentences, Speaks with an abnormal tone or rhythm (like a robot).

Can’t start a conversation or keep one going, May repeat words or phrases verbatim, but doesn’t understand how to use them, Performs repetitive movements, such as rocking, spinning or hand-flapping.

Develops specific routines or rituals, Becomes disturbed at the slightest change in routines or rituals, May be fascinated by parts of an object, such as the spinning wheels of a toy car, May be unusually sensitive to light, sound and touch.

Although doctors do not know exactly what causes it, researchers believe autism is linked to differences in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters). Genetic factors are the most significant cause for autism spectrum disorders. These differences may be caused by something in our genes — families who have one child with autism have a higher risk of having another child with autism or a similar disorder. Research suggests that it’s probably a combination of genes that causes the disorder, not a single autism gene.

Usually, lab tests and other medical tests are normal in kids with autism, but doctors may do them to make sure the kid doesn’t have other problems. These medical tests may include blood and urine tests, a hearing exam, an EEG (a test to measure brain waves), and an MRI (a picture that shows the structure of the brain). Intelligence (IQ) tests also may be done. If your child shows some signs of autism, you may be referred to a specialist in treating children with autism. This specialist, working with a team of professionals, can perform a formal evaluation for the disorder.

There is no cure for autism, but doctors may give treatment options which include:

Behavioral and communication therapies. The programs are about to address the range of social, language and behavioral difficulties associated with autism; reduce problem behaviors and teaching new skills. Other programs focus on teaching children how to act in social situations or how to communicate better with other people.

Drug therapies. Even though there is no drug to cure autism, some medications can help control symptoms. Stimulants can help with hyperactivity, while antipsychotic drugs sometimes will control repetitive and aggressive behaviors.

Complementary approaches. Complementary therapies, including: speech therapy, physical therapy, music therapy, changes in diet, medication, occupational therapy, and hearing or vision, special diets, vitamin and mineral supplements, and sensory integration — which focuses on reducing a child’s hypersensitivity to touch or sound.

Children with autism often respond well to highly structured education programs. Successful programs often include a team of specialists and a variety of activities to improve social skills, communication and behavior. By the time they are teens, people with autism may be taking regular classes, attending special classes at the high school level, or attending a special school because of ongoing behavioral problems.

the child in red photo by Sandra Bloom

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