Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the name of the group of serious problems with development that are caused by a problem in a young child’s brain. The disorder often surfaces before the age of three, continuing on into adulthood. Being able to recognize and treat the disorder early can positively affect the severity of it. All Autism forms affect communication and interaction abilities with people. No one knows the causes of ASD, nor does anyone know how to prevent or cure it. The key is to be able to treat autism as early as possible.

Autism signs and symptoms are seen in crucial developmental places. A child with Autism can have social interaction problems, as well as problems with language and behavior. Difficulty learning, or learning in a non conventional way can also be a sign. The child may also have a difficult time paying attention or reacting to something. Signs of Autism are seen in infancy and childhood.

Common signs of Autism: Social skills-little or no response when calling his or her name, avoid eye contact, appears not to hear you at times, resists cuddling and holding- might only cuddle when they want to, appears unaware of others’ feelings, wants to be alone- be in their “own world”, having trouble expressing their own feelings.

Signs in the area of language include: Not talking as early as other children, reverting in speech development, not making eye contact when asking for something, may speak in an odd tone or cadence, inability to initiate conversations (or to maintain conversation), repeating a word or phrase exactly but not comprehend the usage of it, difficulty in describing their needs.

Behavioral signs are: A child may repeat and action time and again, for example, rocking or hand flapping, having a specific schedule or ritual, and getting upset if that schedule is disturbed, constantly moving. A child could also be enthralled with an object’s moving parts, can be hypersensitive to sound, light and touch, while being unaffected by pain, may also lack intuition to point at interesting objects, such as a helicopter flying overhead.

Call your doctor immediately if your child seems to have lost a skill, at whatever age. Request a referral to a developmental pediatrician. Taking action as early as possible will make a big difference.

Source: Family