What is autism?

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder usually identified by age three. A child with autism will show different behaviors than typical developing children. Parents become concerned that their child may lack eye contact, be deaf, is not yet talking, resists cuddling, and avoids interacting with others.

These behaviors may begin shortly after birth or develop as a child grows older.

Symptoms will range from mild to severe. Mental retardation is commonly associated in autism. Epilepsy may also develop in some cases. Boys with autism outnumber girls 4 to1.

Consult a pediatrician, developmental specialist or neurologist if you suspect your child may have autism.


How is autism diagnosed?

There is no biological testing available for autism. Autism is diagnosed on the observation of a specialist and parent questionnaire reporting their child's behavior, i.e. ability to play, interact with others, and communicate.

Children will need to be diagnosed earlier because the risk to parents of having another child with autism is increased. The probability of having a second child with autism is 1 in 20.

African-American children with autism need to get diagnosed earlier and receive early intervention, as they were found to be diagnosed later than any other ethnic group.

Early diagnosis is essential to a better outcome -- a brighter future.


What treatment options are available?

Children with autism need a complete evaluation with specialized behavioral and educational programs. Learning disabilities are common in autism. Some autistic students are smart and learn easily.

Most children need a structured day at home and school in a carefully planned environment for learning.

Today there is real hope for children with autism.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism is treatable with no known cure yet. Autism may cause behavioral or psychological symptoms. Early and intensive education can help a child with autism develop and learn new skills.

The goal is to reduce the difficult symptoms and improve their skills that help a child talk, relate to others, play, learn and care for their own needs.

Some children with autism may benefit from treatment with medication to relieve symptoms. Structured teaching known as behavioral intervention or ABA is currently the most effective treatment.

Biomedical interventions may include nutritional supplements, special diets, treatment of bacterial and yeast overgrowth in the gut, and detoxification of heavy metals.

Appropriate treatment can improve a child's development and help to reduce disruptive behaviors and symptoms.


What is the cause of autism?

The cause of autism remains unknown. We do know that parents do not cause autism. Current theories indicate a problem with the function or structure of the central nervous system.

Although the dramatic increase and cause of autism is controversial, a genetic predisposition and one or more environmental factors must be in place for autism symptoms to be apparent, is possible.


How common is autism?

According to the Autism Society of America:

● 1 in 166 children have autism.
● A child is diagnosed about every 20 minutes.
● More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than AIDS, diabetes and cancer combined.
● Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.


How are children with autism affected?

A child with autism is first a child. They have feelings and emotions, i.e. illness, discomfort, loneliness, sadness, happiness, and boredom, etc.

An autistic child seems to exist in her own world, and displays unusual behaviors, need repetitive interests or routines, have problems in communication, and lack social and play skills.

Some children with autism do not speak at all. Those who do may speak in rhyme, echolalia (repeat words), speak in a flat tone and use peculiar language.

Occasionally, a child with autism displays a special talent in art, music, or another particular area.

With early diagnosis and early intervention a child with autism has a better outcome - a brighter future.


What services are available for a young child?

Young children from birth to age three may receive Early Intervention Services.

A child with autism having limitations in one or more daily life activities and/or displaying difficult or harmful behaviors are entitled to certain supports and services. These services are generally obtained from a state Developmental Disability Services Office where you reside. A local Department of Mental Health or Mental Health Association may also help you apply for services.


What is the prognosis for persons with autism?

Although the outcome for adults with autism has improved over recent years, many remain highly dependent on their families and other adult support services.


Resources:

Click here for practical ways to help, plan and manage daily living with autism.

Autism Society of America provides advocacy, information and support. The information referral hotline is (800) 3-AUTISM.

National Autism Association offers information on the most current research, and helps fund critical research to find the cause of autism.

Autism Research Institute and DAN!, the Neuro-Immune Dysfunction Syndromes Research Institute or NIDS and the Pfeiffer Treatment Center provide treatment options, each with their own protocols.

Learn more about autism-related issues and take political action with the parent-led organization,
A-CHAMP.


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