Autism Spectrum Disorder

Pervasive developmental disorders, PDD’s, are a group of recognized syndromes which are evident in childhood. PDD’s include Asperger’s syndrome, autism, Rhett’s disorder and others. These disorders are difficult to diagnose but the effects are seen in young children who have difficulty with social situations, communication and often develop repetitive behaviors around specific interests or triggers. The symptoms will often be noted by parents, teachers or other caregivers. Diagnosis usually involves specific psychological testing. A child with PDD will need accommodations at school and extra social support. Therapy is helpful in teaching the child specific skills, helping the family understand how to respond to symptoms, and learning to advocate for needed understanding and support.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder

From Autism Speaks:

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. We now know that there is not one autism but many types, caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences.

The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each person with autism.

Autism’s most-obvious signs tend to appear between 2 and 3 years of age. In some cases, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Some developmental delays associated with autism can be identified and addressed even earlier. Autism Speaks urges parents with concerns to seek evaluation without delay, as early intervention can improve outcomes.

Facts about Autism

From National Autism Association:

• Autism now affects 1 in 68 children
• Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls
• About 40% of children with autism do not speak. About 25%–30% of children with autism have some words at 12 to 18 months of age and then lose them. Others might speak, but not until later in childhood
• Autism greatly varies from person to person (no two people with autism are alike)
• The rate of autism has steadily grown over the last twenty years
• Comorbid conditions often associated with autism include Fragile X, allergies, asthma, epilepsy, bowel disease, gastrointestinal/digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, PANDAS, feeding disorders, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, sensory integration dysfunction, sleeping disorders, immune disorders, autoimmune disorders, and neuroinflammation.
• Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet most underfunded
• A 2008 Danish Study found that the mortality risk among those with autism was nearly twice that of the general population
• Children with autism do progress – early intervention is key

Early Symptoms of Autism

From National Autism Association:

• Not respond to their name (the child may appear deaf)
• Avoid eye contact
• Want to be alone
• Have difficulty understanding, or showing understanding, or other people’s feelings or their own
• Have no speech or delayed speech
• Repeat words or phrases over and over (echolalia)
• Give unrelated answers to questions
• Get upset by minor changes
• Have obsessive interests
• Flap their hands, rock their body, or spin in circles
• Have unusual reactions (over or under-sensitivity) to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel
• Have low to no social skills
• Avoid or resist physical contact
• Demonstrate little safety or danger awarenessReverse pronouns (e.g., says “you” instead of “I”)

Psychiatrists & Therapists specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder:

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