About Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affects about 1 in 150 newborns in the United States. Although research about ADS is ongoing, no one cause of autism has been found. Unlike many other disorders, there is no medical test that can rule out or diagnose autism. A complex neuro-biological disorder, ASD is diagnosed through observation of symptoms and behaviors.
Causes
Autism is complex, and no one single cause has been identified. Genetics may play a role, and siblings of autistic children are at a higher risk for developing autism than those with no family history. Research indicates that some variations in gene development may play a role in the development of autism, as may environmental exposure to certain chemicals and toxins. Routine vaccinations have been ruled out as a cause for autism. Even researchers who study autism exclusively can not, as of yet, point to a specific cause of this disorder.
Symptoms
Because children with autism can be very withdrawn and non-communicative, autism can be bewildering for parents and families of those affected. Children affected by autism share many similar symptoms, such as problems with communication, social interaction, and language use. However, since the range of symptoms is great, one child with autism may function in a way that is more “normal” than another with the same diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Parents are often the first to recognize that something is not right with the development of a child who is ultimately diagnosed with autism. Diagnosis of autism is based on observation, followed by screening and evaluation. Parents may be relieved to receive a diagnosis since that can then lead to treatment and intervention. Unlike other disorders or diseases, no one medical test can effectively diagnose or rule out autism. The process of diagnosis can be a difficult time for parents who are anxious for answers.
Treatment
Autism, based on what is known today, cannot be cured, but treatments and interventions – particularly when they are early and intense – can significantly affect the development of a child with autism. With no “one size fits most” treatment proven effective, parents must remain keenly aware of the symptoms their child exhibits in order to determine what may be effective in their child’s specific case. Behavioral and speech therapies are being studied and found to be effective at lessening autism symptoms. Medications and diet are also being studied as potential ways to decrease symptoms, but all of these interventions depend on the child affected, adding to the mysterious nature of autism and its treatment.
Autism is complex, but research has made great strides in determining causes and treatments. The disorder remains vexing, but continuing research will eventually lead to an increased knowledge of causes and prevention, treatments and interventions.