Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism is also referred to as autism spectrum disorder. The definition of autism keeps on changing as years go by and as we understand more information about it. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disability which affects how individuals think, communicate and inter-relate with the world. Autism spectrum disorder, a condition related to development of the brain, affects how someone perceives others around him, and how he/ she interacts with them. This condition causes problems in social interaction and communication. The word “SPECTRUM” has been employed to refer to the wide variation of symptoms and ways in which it manifests among persons.
Autism has been classified by psychiatrists as a mental disorder.
Onset of this condition is during early childhood. Usually, ASD manifests by age 2-3 years.
Key Facts
At least 1 in 100 individuals are on the autism spectrum- 1%. This means that 1 in 100 people are autistic. This data is specific for the United Kingdom.
Therefore, it is estimated that in the United Kingdom, there are around 700,000 autism patients- both children and adults.
Risk Factors
The following are risk factors that can contribute to development of ASD;
- Positive family history of ASD
- Some prescription medicines
- Neonatal health issues
- Birthing children past 35 years.
- Some genetic or chromosomal conditions.
- Autism already present in siblings.
- Thalidomide use by expectant/pregnant woman during her pregnancy.
Causes
The exact causes of ASD are yet to be identified by the scientific community.
According to researches conducted so far, both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to development of autism.
Signs & Symptoms
In children;
- Inability to complete tasks such as schoolwork
- Repetitive behaviors
- Difficulty interacting with other people.
Signs of autism in adults;
- Difficulty maintaining meaningful eye contact or they avoid eye contact at all.
- Difficulty expressing themselves.
- Anxiety at social events such as public gatherings and weddings.
Diagnostic Procedures
There are no definitive laboratory tests that can be conducted to diagnose an individual with ADHD.
Therefore, getting a proper diagnosis of ASD can be quite difficult.
Methods employed in the process of getting a diagnosis for autism are;
- Developmental surveillance. This includes looking at the history of development of the child, together with their behavior as they developed.
- Developmental screening. Use of questionnaires to screen for autism. The questions and checklists will be used to assess, evaluate and compare the child under observation to other children of similar age.
- Formal evaluation using a qualified specialist.
Differential Diagnosis
- Attention-deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD)
- Speech disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizoid personality disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Treatment & Management
Unfortunately, there is no cure for autism. It is a lifelong condition.
Treatment involves;
- Pyschotropic medication
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior analysis
- Occupational therapy
Complications
Autism can lead to complications such as;
- Stress
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD)
- Schizophrenia
- Anxiety
- Epilepsy
- Bipolar disorder
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
- Social isolation
- Self-harm
- Suicidal tendencies
- Learning and educational difficulties
Prevention
Autism cannot be prevented.
An individual has the role of lowering risks of having a baby with autism. This includes taking certain steps, such as;
- Embracing a healthy lifestyle. Regularly perform exercises and consume nutritious diets.
- During pregnancy, any medications prescribed should be safe for the mother and her unborn child. Ask your doctor about any complications related to the drugs during prescription.
- Create autism awareness to educate the public on risk factors.
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