INFORMATION ON AUTISM

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Autism may be defined as a brain disorder that is related with a range of developmental problems, mainly in communication and social interaction. It affects both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

SYNONYMS OF AUTISM

Synonyms and related keywords:

1. Autistic disorder.
2. Infantile autism.
3. Kanner syndrome.
4. Kanner's syndrome.
5. Movement abnormalities.
6. Motion anomalies.
7. Communication abnormalities.
8. Social interaction abnormalities.
9. Mental retardation.

CAUSES OF AUTISM

The main causes of autism are:-

1. Genetic and environmental factors.
2. Tuberous sclerosis.
3. Congenital rubella syndrome.
4. Untreated phenylketonuria.
5. Harmful substances during pregnancy.

SYMPTOMS OF AUTISM

Symptoms of Autism are:

1. Low speech and communication skills.
2. Perform repetitive movement.
3. Avoids cuddling or touching.
4. Frequent behavioral outbursts, tantrums.
5. Inappropriate attachments to objects.
6. Maintains little or no eye contact.
7. Over- or under sensitivity to pain, no fear of danger .
8. Sustained abnormal play.
9. Uneven motor skills.
10. Unresponsiveness to normal teaching methods and verbal clues (may appear to be deaf despite normal hearing.

DIAGNOSIS OF AUTISM

No specific diagnostic test for Autism Spectrum Disorder is present. The best way to get a diagnosis is via a multi disciplinary assessment. The age of diagnosis these days ranges from approximately 18 months through to adulthood, depending on circumstances. Sometimes a provisional diagnosis is made if the child is very young, and a reassessment at a later date is recommended.

TREATMENT OF AUTISM

There is no cure for autism is present. Therapies and behavioral interventions are designed to remedy specific symptoms and can bring about substantial improvement. The ideal treatment plan coordinates therapies and interventions that target the core symptoms of autism: impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and obsessive or repetitive routines and interests. Most professionals agree that the earlier the intervention, the better.