Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition that impacts a child’s behavior, communication, and social skills. The symptoms of autism vary widely, and not all individuals with ASD exhibit the same signs.
This variability is why it is called a “spectrum.” In the past, mild autism symptoms were often referred to as Asperger’s syndrome, but it now falls under the broader category of ASD.
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Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism is a neurological and developmental disorder that makes it difficult for an individual to communicate, learn, and interact with others. It is typically detected in early childhood, often before the age of two.
Children with autism interact with their surroundings differently than others. These differences usually become noticeable in the first year of life and become more apparent between 18-24 months of age.
ASD cannot be cured, but various therapies can help individuals function and interact more effectively in society.
Symptoms of Autism
Autism symptoms may not be immediately noticeable. Some children may develop normally in their first year but then show a sudden decline in abilities around age two.
Social Interaction and Communication Difficulties
Children with autism often struggle with social interactions and communication. Some common signs include:
- Not responding when their name is called
- Avoiding hugs or physical touch
- Preferring to play alone
- Avoiding eye contact and showing limited facial expressions
- Delayed speech development or complete lack of speech
- Losing previously acquired language skills
- Difficulty starting or maintaining a conversation
- Repeating words or phrases without understanding their meaning
- Speaking in an unusual tone, such as singing or robotic speech
- Inability to understand simple questions or instructions
- Difficulty expressing emotions and recognizing others’ feelings
- Lack of interest in activities or other people
- Inappropriate approaches to social interactions, such as passive-aggressive behavior
- Struggling to interpret non-verbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice
Behavioral Patterns
Children with autism also exhibit unique behavioral patterns, such as:
- Repetitive movements, such as rocking, spinning, or hand-flapping
- Engaging in self-harming behaviors like biting or head-banging
- Rigid routines and extreme distress over small changes
- Poor coordination, walking on tiptoes, or stiff body movements
- Obsessive focus on specific details of objects, such as spinning wheels on a toy car
- Overreacting or underreacting to sensory stimuli, such as light, touch, or sound
- Avoiding pretend play or role-playing activities
- Unusual fixation on certain objects or activities
- Picky eating habits or sensitivity to certain food textures
Additionally, children with autism may also experience:
- Speech delays
- Motor skill difficulties
- Learning or cognitive delays
- Hyperactivity, impulsivity, or inattentiveness (ADHD)
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Unusual eating or sleeping patterns
- Intense emotional reactions or mood swings
- Extreme fearlessness or heightened anxiety
Causes of Autism
The exact cause of autism remains unknown. However, research suggests that genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of ASD.
Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of autism, such as:
- Low birth weight
- Having a sibling with autism
- Genetic conditions like Down syndrome
- Maternal age over 35 during pregnancy
However, having these risk factors does not guarantee that a child will develop autism, and their absence does not ensure immunity from the condition.
Diagnosis of Autism
Autism is typically diagnosed around the age of two. Pediatric developmental specialists diagnose ASD by observing a child’s behavior and developmental progress.
There is no single test for autism, but diagnosis methods include:
- Autism screening at 18 and 24 months, alongside routine child health checkups
- Cognitive ability assessments
- Language development evaluations
- Behavioral observations
- Parental interviews regarding home behavior
- Hearing tests
- Blood tests (if needed)
Treatment for Autism
There is no cure for autism, as it is not a disease. However, early intervention and therapy can help children with ASD develop social and communication skills to function effectively.
Medication may be prescribed to manage certain symptoms, but therapy is the primary approach for helping autistic children improve their skills.
Common Therapies for Autism:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – A structured therapy that encourages positive behaviors and reduces problematic ones.
- Occupational Therapy – Helps children develop fine motor skills and daily living activities.
- Speech Therapy – Aims to improve communication skills, whether verbal or non-verbal.
- Sensory Integration Therapy – Helps manage sensory sensitivities.
- Social Skills Training – Teaches children how to interact with others appropriately.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps manage additional conditions like ADHD or anxiety.
- Family Therapy – Involves parents and caregivers in therapy sessions to support home-based learning and interaction.
Each child with ASD requires a unique therapy plan based on their specific needs and the severity of their symptoms. The duration and success of therapy vary depending on the child’s progress.
Parents should consult pediatric specialists and therapists to create the most effective treatment strategy.
At Mandaya Royal Hospital, we offer expert consultations with pediatric specialists and experienced therapists at our Children’s Clinic. Our child development services ensure a personalized therapy plan to optimize your child’s progress.
Contact us via WhatsApp Chat, Book Appointment, or download the Care Dokter app from Google Play or the App Store to schedule a consultation, monitor queues, and enjoy a convenient consultation experience.
