Autism: Causes, Symptoms and Affects

Autism is a developmental disability which affects the ability to interact and communicate with others. While autism is diagnosed by a set of symptoms and behaviors, its affect varies wildly from patient to patient. There is no definitive cause for autism, meaning there is no cure; however, there are many services and treatments that can help a family affected by autism.

In the past few years, autism has become a widely advertised syndrome, making its symptoms easily recognizable to the general population. While a doctor is needed for a definitive diagnosis, there are several signs and symptoms of autism. These symptoms typically appear between the ages of two and three. The primary symptom is lack of communication of any form. This can mean a delay or complete lack of spoken language, little to no eye contact, or a repetitive use of motor skills (for example: continuous rocking) or language. Additionally, a child with autism may display a complete lack of interest in relationships with peers. They may also fail to show interest in make-believe or spontaneous play. A final symptom, and perhaps the most recognized one, is a fixation on an object or objects. The child may sit for hours staring at one item. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward diagnosis and treatment.

Once a diagnosis is made, there are three broad treatment categories available. The first is the behavioral approach. This is a heavily structured program designed to improve communications and social interaction. A good behavioral treatment approach will include clear instructions, prompting, praise and an increase in behavioral complexity. The second treatment category is biomedical and often includes dietary components. Medications and/or dietary changes will be used to treat the more distracting symptoms, such as hyperactivity and mood changes. The final approach is the complementary approach. Complementary therapies include art therapy to provide visual stimulation and to allow the child an outlet to express themselves, music therapy as an aid in development of speech and language skills and animal therapy to improve coordination and motor skills as well self-image. Whichever treatment approach you use, it is clear that early intervention is important for any treatment program to succeed.

Autism is becoming an increasingly visible problem. It is often difficult to diagnosis because of the varying degrees and ways it affects patients. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to a higher standard of living for many autistic children.

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