Twin Cities
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with ASD have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known. Scientists believe there are multiple causes of ASD that act together to change the most common ways people develop. We still have much to learn about these causes and how they impact people with ASD. People with ASD may behave, communicate, interact, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. There is often nothing about how they look that sets them apart from other people. The abilities of people with ASD can vary significantly. For example, some people with ASD may have advanced conversation skills whereas others may be nonverbal. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others can work and live with little to no support.
Onset
ASD begins before the age of 3 years and can last throughout a person’s life, although symptoms may improve over time. Some children show ASD symptoms within the first 12 months of life. In others, symptoms may not show up until 24 months of age or later. Some children with ASD gain new skills and meet developmental milestones until around 18 to 24 months of age, and then they stop gaining new skills or lose the skills they once had. As children with ASD become adolescents and young adults, they may have difficulties developing and maintaining friendships, communicating with peers and adults, or understanding what behaviors are expected in school or on the job. They may come to the attention of healthcare providers because they also have conditions such as anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which occur more often in people with ASD than in people without ASD.
Signs and Symptoms
People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. These characteristics can make life very challenging. It is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms.
Social Communication and Interaction
Many people with ASD have trouble holding conversations, reading social cues, making eye contact, expressing emotions, taking turns, maintaining personal space, or being empathetic. They may have limited interests and struggle to relate to peers.
Restrictive and Repetitive Behaviors
People with ASD may engage in repetitive motions like rocking, spinning, flapping, or self-harm behaviors. They may strictly adhere to routines, obsess over specific interests, or have sensory issues like sensitivity to lights or sounds.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ASD can be difficult since there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorder. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis. ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months of age or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until they are much older. Some people are not diagnosed until they are adolescents or adults. This delay means that people with ASD might not get the early help they need.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ASD can be difficult since there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorder. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis. ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months of age or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until they are much older. Some people are not diagnosed until they are adolescents or adults. This delay means that people with ASD might not get the early help they need.
ASD Evaluation
Specialists like developmental pediatricians, child neurologists, child psychologists and psychiatrists can conduct in-depth evaluations for ASD. Standardized screening tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) are used.Treatment
Current treatments for ASD seek to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. ASD affects each person differently, meaning that people with ASD have unique strengths and challenges and different treatment needs. Treatment plans usually involve multiple professionals and are catered to the individual.Behavioral Interventions
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is the most researched and effective autism treatment. It focuses on improving communication, social skills, learning, and behaviors. Intensive ABA can help prepare children for mainstream school environments.
Speech Therapy
Many children with ASD work with speech-language pathologists to improve their communication and language abilities through exercises and interaction.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists help kids with ASD engage in play, adjust to sensory stimuli, and develop greater independence with everyday activities.
Medications
Medications don’t treat the core symptoms of ASD, but can help manage high energy levels, inability to focus, depression, or seizures.
Early Intervention
Research shows that early intensive services can greatly improve outcomes. Organizations like All Level Autism Center provide early intervention ABA therapy and resources for families. Contact your local early intervention system if concerned about your child under 3 years old. For children over 3, contact your local public school district to request a free evaluation and see if your child qualifies for intervention services. Don’t wait to act if you have a concern.
Prevalence
ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. It is over 4 times more common in boys than girls. The CDC estimates about 1 in 44 children has ASD.
Risk Factors
Specific causes are unknown, but certain factors may increase risk: – Family history of ASD – Genetic conditions like fragile X syndrome – Complications during pregnancy or birth – Older parents Research is still being done to understand more about potential genetic and environmental risk factors.