Autism does not exist as a singular disorder, but rather a spectrum of disorders that are closely related that share a common set of symptoms. Everyone with autism has issues with interactions with others and communication, empathy, and a range of behavior. However, the severity of impairment and the mix of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. In reality, two children with the same diagnosis could be quite different in regards to their abilities and behaviors.
Parents with a child who is on the spectrum of autism, you could encounter a variety of terms, including Atypical autism, high-functioning autism as well as autism spectrum disorder or pervasive development disorder. The terms are often confusing, not just because they are numerous of them, but also because therapists, doctors and parents might apply them in different ways.
No matter what the teachers, doctors, and other experts call autism spectrum disorder the individual requirements that matter the most. A diagnosis label cannot identify the specific issues your child is facing. Making sure you find a solution that addresses the needs of your child instead of trying to figure out what is the issue is the most effective step you can take. There is no need for an official diagnosis before you can get assistance for your child’s issues.
What’s in the name? Understanding the meaning of autism terms
There is, of course, a degree of confusion over the names given to different autism-related disorders. Certain experts refer to “the autism spectrum disorders” to avoid discussing the subtle differences between the various autism-related disorders on the spectrum. As of 2013 there were five different “autism spectrum conditions.” The differences between these five disorders were hard to grasp for parents who were trying to determine which one of these conditions affected their child.
It is believed that the American Psychiatric Association attempted to simplify things by combining widespread developmental disorders into one single diagnostic classification dubbed “Autism Spectrum Disorder” in the most current revision of their diagnostic book, referred to by”the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Because many patients had been diagnosed before the changes in the classification system, and because some professionals still use the labels prior to 2013 which we will summarize in this article for your convenience. To make things clearer it is important to note that all of the aforementioned conditions now fall under the umbrella category “Autism Spectrum Disorder” (ASD).
The three most frequent forms of autism within the prior classification system included Autism Disorder–or classical autism, Asperger’s Syndrome; and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Specified (PDD-NOS). The three conditions share several characteristics however, they differ in intensity and severity. Autism was among the more severe. Asperger’s syndrome, also known as high-functioning autism and PDD-NOS, also known as Atypical Autism were the more mild variations. Childhood disintegrative disorder as well as Rett Syndrome were also among the most prevalent developmental disorders. Since they are both extremely rare genetic conditions, they’re usually considered distinct medical conditions that don’t necessarily belong on the spectrum of autism.
Due to the inconsistent way that people were classified all the above-named types that are associated with autism have been known in the term “Autism Spectrum Disorder.” The singular name shifts the focus from the place your child is on the spectrum of autism and instead focuses on whether or not your child is suffering from Autism Disorder. Disorder. If your child is developing delayed or displays other autism-like behavior, you’ll need consult an experienced medical professional or psychologist with a specialization in diagnostic testing to conduct an extensive assessment. The doctor will help you determine if your child suffers from Autism or a spectrum disorder and how much they’re affected.
Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms
Be aware that even if your child exhibits some autism-like signs isn’t a guarantee that they are diagnosed with autism spectrum Disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorders are a diagnosis by the presence of several manifestations that interfere with an individual’s ability to form relationships, communicate as well as play, explore and grow.
Social behavior and understanding of social norms
Basic social interactions can be challenging for children with autism spectrum disorders. The signs could include:
Body language that is unusual or insensitive, as well as gestures or face expressions (e.g. not making eye contact or facial expressions that aren’t in line with the language they’re saying).
A lack of interest in others or sharing accomplishments or interests (e.g. making you draw or pointing at an animal, or pointing to).
Unlikely to interact with others or engage in social interactions and appears to be distant and distant. Likes to be by himself.
It is difficult to understand other people’s feelings or reactions as well as non-verbal signals.
Refrain from being at.
Failure or difficulty in making acquaintances with children of the same age.
Language and speech
Many children who suffer from Autism Spectrum Disorder struggle with the ability to communicate and understand language. The symptoms could include:
Inability to talk (after at least two years old) or does not speak at all.
Atypical voice, or with a strange tone or rhythm.
Repetition of words or phrases repeatedly with no intention of communicating.
Problems starting a conversation or getting it to go on.
Communication difficulties with regards to needs or wishes.
Isn’t able to comprehend simple sentences or simple questions.
Don’t take what’s said too literally, ignoring humor, irony and sarcasm.
Play and restrained behavior
Children suffering from Autism Spectrum Disorder typically have a strict, rigid, or sometimes obsessive about their behavior as well as their activities and hobbies. The symptoms could include:
Body movements that are repetitive (hand flapping or rocking) and a constant movement.
Obsessive attachment to odd objects (rubber keys, bands and light switches).
Concentration on a particular area of interest, which may involve symbols or numbers (maps license plates, maps, statistics of sports).
A strong desire for the sameness as well as routines, order, and consistency (e.g. sets up toys, follows the same routine, etc.). Is annoyed by changes in their routine or the environment.
Atypical posture, awkwardness or unusual methods of movement.
Attracted by spinning things, moving pieces or even parts from toys (e.g. spinning the wheels of the race car as opposed to playing with entire car).
Hypo-, or hyper-reactive the sensory stimulus (e.g. responds poorly to certain textures or sounds and appears to be indifferent to pain or temperature).
What do children diagnosed with autism spectrum Disorder play
Children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder tend to be more reserved as other kids. In contrast to a typical child who is pointing out objects that catch their attention children who suffer from ASD tend to appear bored or in a state of disinterestedness about what’s happening around them. They also exhibit different ways to play. They might have difficulty playing with purposeful play when playing with toys that are of a basic purpose, like toys for cooking or tools. They typically don’t “play with their imaginations,” engage in group games, mimic other people, work together with their toys in innovative ways.
The symptoms and signs that are associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder
While autism isn’t part of the official diagnostic criteria, children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders typically have one or one or:
Sensory issues – A lot of children suffering from autism spectrum disorders are unable to react or react too strongly to sensory stimuli. Sometimes, they might not pay attention to those who speak to them, to the point that they appear deaf. But, in other instances they might be disturbed by the most gentle sound. Unexpected sounds like the ringing of a phone can cause anxiety, and they might react by shutting their ears and reciting sounds to drown out the disturbing sound. Autism spectrum children are also sensitized to touching and textures. They may shiver at a gentle pat on the back or the feeling of certain fabrics to their skin.
Trouble with emotions – Children who have autism spectrum disorders can struggle with controlling their emotions, or even expressing them in a meaningful way. For example your child might begin to cry, yell, or laugh with hysterical laughter in no apparent reason. If they are stressed, they could be disruptive, or even aggressive behaviour (breaking objects, hitting other people or causing harm to themselves). According to the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities further notes that children with ASD might not be scared of actual dangers, such as moving vehicles or the heights of a building but be afraid of objects that are harmless, such as an animal stuffed.
Uneven cognitive capabilities Uneven cognitive abilities ASD is seen at all intelligence levels. But, even children with average to high intelligence frequently possess cognitive abilities that aren’t as developed. It’s not surprising that verbal abilities tend to be less effective than non-verbal abilities. Furthermore, children with Autism spectrum disorder usually do very well in tasks that require visual or immediate memory and tasks that require abstract or symbolic thinking are more challenging.
Autism spectrum disorders
Around 10% of the people who suffer from autism spectrum disorders possess particular “savant” capabilities like Dustin Hoffman portrayed in the film Rain Man. The most popular savant talents are math-related calculations, calendars, musical and artistic talents and memory feats. For instance an autistic genius might be able to multiply huge numbers in their heads or play a concerto for piano after hearing it for the first time or be able to quickly remember complex maps.
What is the process of diagnosing autism?
The process of getting the ASD diagnosis can be arduous and lengthy. In actual fact, it’s typically two to 3 years from the time that initial signs of ASD are observed before a formal diagnosis is given. This is due largely to the concern about diagnosis or labeling incorrectly for the child. However it is also true that an ASD diagnosis may delay the diagnosis if the doctor fails to take the parent’s concerns seriously, or if the family isn’t connected to medical experts who are experts in the field of developmental disorders.
If you’re concerned that your child is suffering from ASD It’s crucial to get a diagnosis diagnosis. However, don’t wait until you get that diagnosis to bring your child treated. Early intervention in the pre-school years can increase your child’s chance of beating their developmental issues. Therefore, look into the treatments options and don’t to fret if you’re in the process of determining a diagnosis. The possibility of a label for your child’s issue is more important than addressing the symptoms.
Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder
In order to determine if your child suffers from an autism-related disorder, or another condition, therapists take a close look at how your child interacts and communicates. Diagnoses are based on patterns of behavior identified.
If you’re concerned that your child may be suffering from an autism spectrum disorder, and the developmental tests confirm the risk then ask your family doctor or pediatrician to send you towards an Autism specialist a team of specialists for an extensive assessment. Because diagnosing autism spectrum disorders is complex, it is important to consult with professionals who have been trained and expertise in this specialization field.
The team of experts involved in diagnosing your child’s condition could include:
Child psychologists
Child psychiatrists
Speech pathologists
Developmental pediatricians
Pediatric neurologists
Audiologists
Physical Therapists
Teachers of special education
The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder isn’t a simple procedure. There isn’t a single test to identify it with certainty; rather in order to identify the issue several tests and evaluations could be required.
Being evaluated to determine if you have Autism Spectrum Disorder
Interview with the parent – During the initial phase of the diagnostic evaluation you’ll give your doctor details regarding your kid’s developmental, medical and behavior past. If you’ve kept a diary or jotting down information that worries you, then give that information to your doctor. Your doctor may be interested in knowing your family’s mental and medical past.
Medical examination – The medical exam includes a physical examination that is general in nature as well as a neurological examination as well as lab tests and genetic tests. Your child will go through the full test to determine the root of their developmental issues and to find any co-existing issues.
Hearing test – As hearing impairments can lead to difficulties with language and social interactions and a lack of language, they must be ruled out before Autism Spectrum Disorder is diagnosed. Your child is subjected to an audiological examination that is formal and thorough. they will be evaluated for hearing impairments in addition to any other hearing impairments or sensitivities to sound that can are associated with autism.
Monitoring – A developmental specialist observe your child’s behavior in a variety of environments to identify unusual behaviors related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorder. They might observe your child’s play or interactions with others.
Lead screening – As lead poisoning may cause autistic symptoms and symptoms, The National Center for Environmental Health suggests that all children suffering from developmental delays should be screened to detect lead poisoning.
Other tests
Based on the symptoms of your child and severity The diagnostic test can also include speech intelligence and social processing as well as motor skills testing. These tests can prove useful not just for diagnosing the condition, but in the determination of what kind that treatment the child will require.
Evaluation of speech and language A speech pathologist will examine your child’s speech and language capabilities for indicators of autism, and also checking for signs of language impairments that are specific to issues.
Cognitive assessment – Your child might receive a standardized test or an informal assessment.
Assessment of adaptive functioning A child’s adaptive functioning assessment could be assessed for their capacity to perform, think critically and adjust to real-world situations. This could include the testing of nonverbal, social and verbal abilities and the capacity to carry out daily tasks, like dressing and eating themselves.
Sensory-motor assessment – Because sensory integration disorders are often associated with autism and may even be misinterpreted A physical therapist or occupational therapist might evaluate your child’s gross motor and sensory processing abilities.
