A developmental disorder brought on by variations in the brain is known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Certain individuals with ASD are known to vary, maybe due to a hereditary disease. There are still unknown reasons. According to scientists, ASD is caused by a combination of factors that alter the typical manner in which people grow. There is still a lot we don’t know about these reasons and how they affect individuals with ASD.
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ASD sufferers may exhibit distinct behaviors, modes of communication, interactions, and learning from most other people. Frequently, there is nothing unique about their appearance that makes them stand out from the crowd. People with ASD might have a wide range of talents. For instance, while some ASD sufferers may be nonverbal, others may possess sophisticated conversational abilities. While some ASD sufferers require extensive support in their everyday life, others are able to work and lead normal lives with little to no assistance.
ASD can manifest at any point in a person’s life, however symptoms may gradually become better. It usually starts before the age of three. Within the first 12 months of life, some children exhibit signs of ASD. Others may not experience symptoms until they are 24 months old or older. Around 18 to 24 months of age, some children with ASD cease learning new abilities or lose the talents they previously have. Until then, they continue to fulfill developmental milestones and acquire new skills.
When kids with ASD grow into teenagers and young adults, they might struggle to make and keep friends, interact with peers and adults, or figure out what kinds of behaviors are appropriate at work or in the classroom. Healthcare professionals may become aware of them if they also suffer from disorders like anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which are more common in those with ASD than in those without it.
Indications and Manifestations
Individuals with ASD may struggle with confined or repetitive habits or interests, as well as social communication and engagement. Individuals with ASD may also move, learn, or pay attention in various ways. These traits have the potential to make life extremely difficult. It is significant to remember that some individuals may exhibit some of these symptoms even in the absence of ASD.
Diagnosis
Since there is no medical test, such as a blood test, to detect ASD, diagnosis might be challenging. To diagnose a child, doctors consider their behavior and developmental stage. ASD can occasionally be identified in children as early as 18 months. A diagnosis made by a qualified specialist can be trusted by the age of two.1. But many kids don’t get a definitive diagnosis until they’re much older. Some people do not receive a diagnosis until they reach adulthood or adolescence. People with ASD may not receive the necessary early assistance as a result of this delay.
Medication
The goal of current ASD therapy is to lessen symptoms that affect daily functioning and quality of life. Since autism affects each individual differently, each person with autism has various strengths and problems as well as varied treatment needs.2 Individualized treatment plans are often customized and include several specialists.
Risk Elements
ASD is not caused by a single factor. Numerous variables, including environmental, biological, and genetic ones, have been linked to an increased risk of ASD in children.
The research that is now available indicates that the following factors may increase a child’s likelihood of having ASD, even if we are unsure of the precise causes:
Having an ASD sibling
possessing certain chromosomal or genetic disorders, such as tuberous sclerosis or fragile X syndrome
Having difficulties at delivery
having elder parents when one is born
One of the biggest ASD studies conducted in the United States to date is being worked on by the CDC. The purpose of this study, known as the Study to Explore Early Development (SEED), was to examine the behaviors and risk factors associated with ASD. The goal of the CDC’s current follow-up research on older SEED participants is to learn more about the needs, functioning, and health of individuals with ASD and other developmental disorders as they get older.
Autism isn’t a disease
It is not a sign of illness or disease to be autistic. It indicates that your brain functions differently from someone else’s.
It’s a natural ability you have. Autism symptoms may appear early in life or may not show up until later in life.
You have autism throughout the duration of your life.
There is no “cure” or medical condition for autism. However, some people require assistance in order to get by.
People with autism can have fulfilling lives
Having autism does not have to prevent you from leading a fulfilling life.
As with everyone, individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have both strengths and weaknesses.
It is not impossible to form connections, acquire employment, or establish acquaintances if you have autism. However, you may require further assistance with these tasks.
Individual differences exist in autism.
There is a spectrum for autism. This implies that each autistic person is unique.
Some autistic persons require very little assistance. Others might require daily assistance from a parent or caregiver.
People with autism can be intelligent at any level.
There are some autistic persons who are intelligent, albeit not exceptionally so.
There are certain autistic persons that struggle with learning. This indicates that they could require assistance with everyday living and struggle to take care of themselves.
