Autism Signs and Symptoms

Autism Spectrum Disorder Signs and Symptoms | Diagnosis | Early Detection

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects brain development and influences how individuals perceive and interact with others. It can lead to challenges in communication and socialization, along with repetitive behaviors. The term “spectrum” highlights the variety of symptoms and their intensity.

ASD encompasses several conditions previously classified as separate, including autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder. Many people still refer to Asperger’s syndrome, which is often seen as a milder form of autism.

Symptoms of ASD typically appear in early childhood, often before the age of one. While some children may initially develop normally, they can experience regression between 18 and 24 months, leading to the onset of autism symptoms. This can affect their ability to function in various settings, including social situations, school, and the workplace.

There is currently no cure for ASD. Nevertheless, early and intensive intervention can significantly improve outcomes for many children. Accessing support and resources can help you or your loved ones navigate the challenges associated with this condition.

Autism Signs and Symptoms

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have challenges in social communication. You might notice some of the following signs:

Limited response: Your child may not respond when you call their name or may not seem to hear you at times.
Preference for solitude: They might resist being cuddled and prefer to play alone, withdrawing into their own space.
Eye contact issues: Poor eye contact and a lack of facial expressions are common.

Speech difficulties: Some children might not speak at all or show delays in speech development. In some cases, they may lose previously learned words or sentences.
Conversation challenges: They might struggle to start or maintain a conversation. When they do speak, it may only be for requests or to name objects.
Unique speech patterns: Their voice might sound unusual, such as using a singsong tone or robotic speech.

Echolalia: They may repeat words or phrases without understanding their meaning.
Understanding problems: Some may not grasp simple questions or directions.
Emotion expression: There may be a lack of expression regarding emotions or an unawareness of others’ feelings.

Sharing interests: Your child might not point to or bring objects to share with others.
Social interaction issues: They may approach social situations in inappropriate ways, such as being passive, aggressive, or disruptive.
Difficulty with nonverbal cues: Recognizing facial expressions, body language, or tone of voice can be a struggle.

Patterns of Behaviour

Repetitive behaviors and specific interests are often seen in children and adults with autism spectrum disorder. These are one of the defining autism signs and symptoms. You may notice some of these behaviors:

Repetitive movements: Common actions include rocking, spinning, or flapping hands.
Self-harm activities: Some might engage in self-harm, like biting or banging their heads.

Ritualistic behavior: They often create routines and may become upset if there are small changes.
Coordination issues: This can involve clumsiness or odd movements, like walking on tiptoes or having stiff body language.
Fascination with details: Your child may focus intensely on small details of objects, such as the wheels on a toy, without understanding how these objects function.

Sensitivity to stimuli: Some children are extra sensitive to lights, sounds, or touch, yet may not react to pain or temperature changes.
Play limitations: They might not participate in pretend play or mimic others in social settings.
Intense interests: A fixation on a certain object or activity can be marked by unusual intensity or focus.

Food preferences: It’s possible for your child to have strict eating habits, refusing certain textures or only eating a few specific foods.

As children with autism grow older, some may become more engaged with others and display fewer behavior issues. Those with less severe challenges may ultimately lead typical lives. In contrast, some may continue to face difficulties in language and social skills, especially during their teenage years, which can lead to increased emotional and behavioral challenges.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Signs and Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Children develop at different rates, and many do not meet the timelines suggested in parenting books. That said, those with autism spectrum disorder often show signs of delayed development before they turn 2 years old. If you have concerns about your child’s development or suspect they may have ASD, it is important to consult with your physician. Symptoms of autism can also share similarities with other developmental disorders.

Early autism signs and symptoms

Early indicators of autism spectrum disorder typically involve noticeable delays in speech and social skills. Your doctor may conduct developmental tests if your child displays some of the following signs:

Response to emotions: Your child should respond with a smile or happy expression by 6 months.

Mimicking: By 9 months, they should mimic sounds or facial expressions.
Babbling: Cooing or babbling should be present by 12 months.
Gestures: Pointing or waving should occur by 14 months.

First words: Saying single words should happen by 16 months.
Pretend play: By 18 months, your child should engage in make-believe play.
Two-word phrases: Speaking in two-word phrases should start by 24 months.

Loss of skills: Losing language or social skills at any age should prompt a consultation.

Recognizing these signs and seeking help early can make a significant difference in your child’s development and quality of life.

Causes

Vaccines and Autism Spectrum Disorder

You may have heard discussions linking childhood vaccines to autism spectrum disorder. This topic has generated a lot of debate. However, research does not support any connection between vaccines and autism.

Many studies conducted over the years have found no reliable evidence that links vaccines to the development of autism spectrum disorder. The original research that raised these concerns has been retracted. This was due to significant flaws in its design and methods.

It’s important to recognize that not vaccinating your child can have serious consequences. Children who do not receive their vaccinations are at higher risk of contracting and spreading dangerous diseases. Conditions like whooping cough, measles, and mumps can pose serious health threats. Vaccinations play a key role in protecting your child and others in the community.

In sum, while the causes of autism spectrum disorder are still being studied, you can trust that vaccines are safe and do not cause the disorder. Keeping your child up to date with vaccinations is essential for their health and the safety of those around them.

Factors That Increase Risk

Several factors may contribute to a higher likelihood of your child being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Understanding these can help you be more aware of potential risks.

Child’s Gender: Boys are approximately four times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD compared to girls.
Family History: If you have one child with autism, there is an increased chance of having another child with the same condition. Additionally, some parents or family members may show mild social or communication difficulties similar to those seen in ASD.

Coexisting Conditions: Certain medical disorders can elevate the risk of ASD. Conditions include:
- Fragile X Syndrome: An inherited condition leading to intellectual difficulties.
- Tuberous Sclerosis: This causes benign tumors to form in the brain.
- Rett Syndrome: Almost always affecting girls, this genetic disorder results in slowed head growth, intellectual challenges, and loss of purposeful hand movements.
Preterm Birth: Infants born before 26 weeks of gestation may face a higher risk of developing autism or autism-like symptoms.
Advanced Parental Age: There may be a possible link between older parents and the likelihood of having a child with ASD. More studies are needed to fully understand this relationship.

Being aware of these risk factors can help you seek timely support and resources for your child.

Challenges

Issues with communication and behavior can result in:

Difficulties in school and learning

Job-related struggles
Challenges in living independently
Increased social isolation

Family stress
Risk of bullying or victimization

Identification of the Condition

To get a diagnosis, you should consult a specialist. Consider these steps:

Research local specialists.
Schedule an appointment.
Prepare notes on concerns and behaviors.

Strategies for Reducing Challenges

While there’s no way to stop autism spectrum disorder, you can explore various treatment options. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve behavior and language skills. It’s essential to know that support can benefit individuals of any age, helping them to grow and manage symptoms more effectively.