The month of April is World Autism Awareness Month, and on this occasion, we decided to raise awareness and provide some facts on what this disorder is all about.

What Is Autism?

Autism, also known as an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a syndrome characterized by difficulties with social skills, in addition to repetitive behaviors, vocabulary, and nonverbal communication issues. 

According to the World Health Organisation, Autism affects an estimated one in every 160 children worldwide. 

What Are The Symptoms?

ASD symptoms that appear in early childhood are likely to persist into adolescence and adulthood. 
The most common symptoms can be divided into 2 categories as following.

Communication difficulties include:

  • Difficulties in sharing their emotions
  • Disability to maintain eye contact
  • Unable to understand body language

Restricted behavior patterns such as:

  • Repetitive movements
  • Inflexible adherence to a set of habits or routines
  • Unsteady response to sensory input from their environment can lead to a negative reaction to a particular sound or noise.

Causes

We recognize that autism is affected by a combination of factors. Autism is thought to be caused by a mixture of genetic and nongenetic, or environmental, factors.
The following are some of the possible risk factors for autism:

  • Getting an autistic immediate family member 
  • Genetic mutations
  • Low weight at birth
  • Being the child of older parents

How To Diagnose It?

Since there is no medical examination for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), such as a blood test, diagnosing the disorder can be challenging. To make a diagnosis, doctors look at the child’s developmental history and behavior.

Between the ages of 18 and 24 months, it is recommended that all children be tested for ASD. Early detection of children who may have ASD may be aided by screening. 

What Are The Possible Treatments?

Although many strategies have been created and tested especially among young children, there is currently no official cure for ASD.

These interventions can help the child function and participate in the community by reducing symptoms, improving cognitive capacity, and daily living skills.

When To See A Doctor?

As a parent, you’re in the best place to understand autism’s early warning signs. If you notice any of the mentioned symptoms or having doubts, do not hesitate to reach out to a specialist.

Head over to the homepage or download our mobile app to choose your preferred method of meeting your child’s Pediatrician.

Click here to book an in-person consultation appointment

Or here to schedule a secure video consultation

Read More: