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By Dr S.K.jha/ mefits.in
Autism is neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, behaviour and social intersection. It typically appears in early childhood and can range from mild to severe.
Causes
There are no any specific causes,but some factors are:-
- Genetics
Family history of autism or genetic mutations
2 Neurological factors
Brain structure ir function differences
3) Environmental factors
Advanced parental age, exposure to pollution, complications during pregnancy or birth.
Symptoms and signs
- Social communication
a) difficulty understanding or using verbal or non- verbal communication
b) Limited eye contact
c) difficulty in making friends or in social activity
d) not liking to participate in any activities
2) Repetitive Behaviours and interests
a) Repetitive movements ( e.g. rocking,hand flapping)
b) Intense interest in specific topics
c) strict adherence to routines
d) Hypersensitivity or Hyposensitivity to sensory inputs( e.g. sound, light, texture)
Other signs
a) Delayed speech or language skills
b) unusual tone of voice
c) Lack of pretend play
d) Regression of previously acquired skills
Types of Autism
- Autistic disorder
- Asperger’s syndrome
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder ( rare)
Diagnosis
a) It should be typically diagnosed by age 2-3 years old
b) Based on behaviour observations , developmental screening and assessments by Specialists( e.g. developmental pediatricians, psychologists, neurologists.
Emotional sensitivity in Autism
- Needing time to recover
- Overwhelmed by small changes
- Taking on others ‘burden
- Difficulty calming down after strong reactions
- Struggle to control emotional outbursts
- Observing others ’emotions
- Intense reaction after perceived rejection
Treatment
There are no specific treatment for complete cure,but early intervention can greatly improve outcomes.
- Therapies
a) Behavioural therapy( e.g. applied behavior analysis)
b) Speech and language therapy
c) Occupational therapy
d) Social skills training
2) Medications
a) may help with symptoms such as anxiety, aggression or Hyperactivity
b) Commonly used as Anti-psychotics ( e.g. Resperidone, SSRIs)
3) Educational support
a) Individualized education plan (IEPS)
b) Specialized teaching strategies
Complications
a) Social isolation or bullying
b) Difficulty with independent living
c) Co-occuring conditions ( e.g. ADHD, Anxiety, Epilepsy, Depression)
d) Employment and relationship challenges in adulthood
<script async src=”https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=cpt>Dr S.K.Jha