Autism

Autism is a complex brain disorder resulting in social, behavioral and language problems. Individuals with Autism have difficulty communicating and forming relationships. They may be preoccupied and engage in repetitive behaviors.

Problems in brain development cause autism. Scientists are searching for answers about what causes these development problems. Studies suggest:

• Genes play a role. Autism seems to run in some families. Several genes may be involved.
• Problems during pregnancy or delivery may interfere with normal brain development.
• Something a child is exposed to may be a factor.

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

• Sex: male
• Age: under 3 years old
• Problems during pregnancy or delivery
• Neurofibromatosis
• Tuberous sclerosis
• Fragile X syndrome
• Phenylketonuria
• Contracting rubella during pregnancy (a risk for the child)

Autism first appears in children age three and younger. The severity of symptoms varies. Behaviors and abilities may differ from day to day. Symptoms may decrease as the child grows older. Autistic children may exhibit a combination of behaviors.

Symptoms include:

• Avoiding social contact
• Using words incorrectly, changing the meaning of a common word
• Gesturing frequently
• Avoiding eye contact
• Trouble with nonverbal communication
• Lack of interest in normal activities for that age
• Spending a lot of time alone
• Not playing imaginatively
• Not starting pretend games
• Not imitating others
• Sensitivity to sound, smell, taste, sights and touch
• Responding to stimulation in an abnormal way
• Not reacting to smiles in the manner expected
• Hyperactivity
• Passiveness
• Tantrums
• Single-mindedness
• Aggression
• Hurting self, self-mutilation
• Rocking or flapping a hand
• Resisting change
• Forming odd attachments to objects
• Sniffing or licking of toys
• Not understanding other peoples' feelings and needs

Some people with autism suffer from other disorders as well, including:

• Seizures
• Down syndrome
• Mental retardation
• Genetic disorders, such as Tourette syndrome or Fragile X syndrome

Some autistic people have unusual abilities. For instance, they may memorize things or be able to play a musical instrument without lessons.

Doctors who specialize in Autism will observe the child's behavior, social contacts and how he or she communicates. They will assess mental and social development and ask parents about the child's behavior. Some doctors ask parents to bring in videotapes of the child at home.

Tests may include:

• Psychological tests
• IQ tests

Medical tests to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms may include:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• DNA testing
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) – a test that records the brain's activity by measuring electrical currents through the brain

There is no cure for autism. The severity of symptoms may decrease over the years, but the condition lasts for life. Families and autistic children benefit from early intervention. Autistic children respond well to a structured, predicable schedule. With help, many autistic children learn to cope with their disabilities. Most need assistance and support throughout their lives. Others are able to work and live independently when they grow up.

Intervention to help autistic children includes:

Special Education

Programs designed to meet the child's special needs improve the odds of learning. Autistic children may have trouble with assignments, concentration and anxiety. Instructors who understand the condition can build on the autistic child's unique abilities. Programs should incorporate the child's interests. Some children do better in a small-group setting. Others do well in regular classrooms with special support. Vocational training can help prepare young adults for a job.

Therapy Services

Speech, physical and occupational therapy may improve speech and activities. Autistic children need help developing social skills.

Family Services

Professional support helps a family cope with caring for a child with autism. Counselors help parents learn how to manage behaviors. Furthermore, caring for a child with autism can be exhausting and frustrating. Arranging occasional respite care is essential, so that the main caregiver can have some breaks.

Medication

Although there are no drugs to treat autism, several drugs are used to help manage symptoms. Drugs prescribed for anxiety and depression can help tone down obsessive and aggressive behaviors.

There are no guidelines for preventing autism because the cause is unknown. Scientists are searching for ways to prevent Autism.