Autism Spectrum Disorder in King of Prussia, PA
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder which affects communication & behavior. Symptoms generally appear prior to age 2. There is a wide variation in the experience of autism, so the term “spectrum" applies. Communication/ interactions with others are impaired and there are often restricted interests/repetitive behaviors associated with (ASD). Treatments & support services can improve symptoms and the ability to function. Screenings can help determine diagnosis.
Signs/Symptoms of ASD
Social communication / Social behaviors may include:
- Inconsistent/little/no eye contact
- Not responding to name/being spoken to/attempts to gain their attention
- Challenged reciprocal/initiating skills
- Challenges initiating conversation, conversation volleys/staying on topic/ending conversations appropriately
- Communicating on topics at length, regardless of others interest
- Facial expressions not matching what is being said
- Unusual tone of voice such as sing-song or flat/robotic
- Inability to perspective take/see other points of view
Restrictive / Repetitive behaviors:
- Repeating behaviors/unusual behaviors and associated echolalia-repeating words or phrases
- Intense interest in certain topics that seems obsessive
- Overly focused interests, such as with moving objects or parts of objects
- Unable to be flexible to changes in routine
- Overly/under sensitive to sensory input, such as light, noise, clothing, or temperature
Other associated challenges include: sleep disturbances/ irritability.
Strengths of this disorder include:
- Positive ability for learning detail/ remember information for long periods of time
- Often Strong visual and auditory learners
- Excelling in math, science, music, or art
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes of ASD are unknown though research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors can act together and affect development in ways that lead to ASD. Although scientists are still trying to understand why some people develop ASD and others don’t, some risk factors include:
- Sibling with ASD
- Having older parents
- Having certain genetic conditions—people with conditions such as Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and Rett syndrome are more likely than others to have ASD
- Very low birth weight
Diagnosis: Medical professionals diagnose ASD assessing behavior and development. It is important to seek out assessment as soon as possible so that a diagnosis can be made, and treatment can begin.
Treatments and Therapies
Early treatment for ASD is important to reduce difficulties, increase skills and utilize strengths. There is no single treatment for ASD. Working closely with a doctor or health care professional is an important part of finding the right treatment program.
Medication-Medication may be used to treat some symptoms that are common with ASD such as:
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Repetitive behavior
- Hyperactivity
- Attention problems
- Anxiety
- Depression
Behavioral, psychological, and educational therapy: People with ASD may be referred to doctors who specialize in providing behavioral, psychological, educational, or skill-building interventions. Programs are typically highly structured and intensive and may involve parents, siblings, and other family members. Programs may help people with ASD:
- Learn life-skills necessary to live independently
- Reduce challenging behaviors
- Increase or build upon strengths
- Learn social, communication, and language skills
Resources: There are many social services programs and other resources that can help people with ASD.
- Contact your doctor, local health department, school, or autism advocacy group to learn about special programs/ resources.
- Find an autism support group.
- Record conversations and meetings with health care providers and teachers. This information helps when it’s time to make decisions about which programs might best meet an individual’s needs.
- Keep copies of doctors' reports and evaluations. This information may help an individual qualify for special programs.