Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms In Children

autism spectrum disorder symptoms in children

What is autism? And what is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a very complex developmental disabilities that cause problems with communication and social interaction. Signs and symptoms of autism start at 18 months old and then will cause delays in social developmental from infancy to adulthood. 

According to National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, people with autism have variable different symptoms so health care providers conclude autism as a "spectrum" disorder: a group of disorders with similar features. One children may show mild symptoms but another may have very serious symptoms. But both of them have an autism spectrum disorder. There are three categories of autism spectrum disorder:

1. Classic autism or autistic disorder
2. Asperger syndrome
3. Atypical autism or Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, or shortened as pervasive developmental disorder.

So we use terminology "autism spectrum disorder" and "autism" to mean the same disorder.

Autism spectrum disorder symptoms in children

There are three main points of autism spectrum disorder:

• Communication disorder: both verbal and non verbal communication. There are difficulties in speaking, pointing, smiling, eye contact, etc.
• Social interaction incapability, such as how to give empathy, sharing emotions to others, how others think and feel, and how to hold a conversation
• Routines or repetitive behaviors disorder, such as playing in repetitive ways, repeating actions or words, obsessively following certain routines.

Autism spectrum disorder treatments

• As quoted from Center for Disease Control, there is no single best treatment for all children with autism spectrum disorders.
• The most important of treatment program is structured teaching of specific skills.
• Regular medical and dental examination should also be included in the treatment program.
• Three basic treatments:

1. Behavioral therapy, based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Speech therapy can help autism children improve their communication ability. Occupational therapy can help children adjust tasks to match their needs and abilities. Physical therapy is also important to build motor control and improve posture and balance.
2. School-based options. Public schools are required to provide appropriate public education from age 3 until high school. Parents should consult to the teachers, school psychologists, and child developmental specialists to design an individual plan for their children.
3. Medication. There are no medications that can cure autism spectrum disorder symptoms in children. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor), anti psychotics, stimulants, tricyclics, and anti anxiety are often prescribed. A hormone that helps digestion called secretin is not recommended as autism spectrum disorder treatment.