Autism Spectrum Disorder

“Many parents come just wanting to know if their child has autism. Their child is already getting services from the school and is on a medication to help with their behaviors. While I am happy to help the parents find a bit of closure, I always caution them that having a diagnosis may not change their child’s current treatment. This is because there is no treatment for autism; medications and therapy only help alleviate the symptoms.

Dr. Thuc

What is ASD?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), more commonly referred to as Autism, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction and communication, such as making eye contact, understanding gestures, and engaging in reciprocal conversation. Repetitive behaviors, intense interests, sensory sensitivities, and difficulty adapting to change are also characteristic features of autism. Because it is a neurodevelopmental disorder, subtle symptoms can be seen as early has 12 months, many months earlier than when a parent typically becomes concerned. Early signs include the lack of joint attention, not responding to name, and speech delays. It is a spectrum disorder because it encompasses a wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of disability that can vary greatly from person to person.

The exact cause of autism is not fully understood, but research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors may contribute to its development. While there is no single known cause of autism, factors such as advanced parental age, genetic mutations, prenatal exposure to certain medications or chemicals, and complications during pregnancy or childbirth have been implicated.

What are the Treatments?

Early identification and intervention are crucial in supporting individuals with autism and maximizing their potential for success. Various therapies and interventions can help individuals develop communication and social skills, manage challenging behaviors, and navigate daily life more effectively. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training are among the many interventions that may be beneficial for individuals with autism.