A Comprehensive Guide for Parents with Autistic Children
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a condition that affects an individual’s social behavior. Previously, it was categorized into different disorders, but now scientists treat ASD as a condition with a broad spectrum and severity. Most of the people still refer to this condition as “autism.”
Unfortunately, autism is incurable, but there are various treatments that can be given to improving an individual’s quality of life. Most of these autism treatment cincinnati oh can help a person with autism to enhance their learning, social functioning and also the general quality of life. It is essential to note that autism is a spectrum-based condition. Therefore, different people will require different treatments.
It is also important to remember that most of the modern research about autism focuses primarily on children. Research has established that autism treatment is most effective when it is started early, usually before a child celebrates their third birthday. However, some autistic treatments designed for children can be used in adults as well.
What Are the Earliest Tale Signs of Autism in Children?
Signs of autism in children can show as early as one year. However, these signs can be confirmed by an expert after a child celebrates their second birthday. Some of the earliest symptoms of autism include poor eye contact, incoherent or lack of proper response to name and impaired joint attention.
Children with autism have significant social deficits. Most of these children demonstrate little imaginary play, difficulties with reciprocal play and they are less interested in other children. As they grow up, they may exhibit problems in achieving phrase speech.
Autistic children also demonstrate repetitive and unusual behaviors. These criteria can also be used for early diagnosis of autism. An autistic person will show a lot of difficulties during the transition between environments or activities. They may also find it difficult to engage in repetitive movements such as toe-walking or hand-flapping.
What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism is an inherited disorder. Scientists have so far managed to isolate more than 100 genes associated with this condition. Scientists believe that there could be more than 1,000 genes associated with other psychiatric conditions.
However, there is a multitude of other factors can take advantage of gene vulnerability to increase the risk of autism. Some of these factors include preterm birth, low birth weight, exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy and giving birth at an older age.
What Is the Prevalence Of ASD?
The number of children affected by ASD is on the rise, and it is quite challenging to tell the exact figures. However, a report published by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in 2012 indicated that one in every 68 children is affected. It also pointed out that ASD prevalence cuts across ethnic, racial and social economic boundaries. According to the report, boys are 4-5 times likely to be affected than girls.
Treatment Options Available for ASD
It is now easy to get autism treatment across the U.S. These treatments usually involve behavioral, occupational and physical therapy. Most of the treatment centers are focusing on using applied behavioral analysis since research has established that is the most effective. The technique involves teaching autistic children skills using positive reinforcement. Experts have arrived at a common conclusion that when you seek autism treatment early, you are likely to experience better results.