May 23, 2018
Barb Green, Parish Nurse
Milton, WI
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Although there may be nothing in the way people with ASD look to set them apart, they may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged.
A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder, and Asperger syndrome. These conditions are now all called autism spectrum disorder. ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socio- economic groups but is about 4.5 times more common among boys than among girls.
People with ASD may repeat certain behaviors or not want change in their daily activities. They may have different ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to things. Signs of ASD begin during early childhood and typically last throughout a person’s life. Specific behaviors may include: not pointing at objects to show interest, such as a plane flying overhead; having trouble relating to others; preferring not to be held or cuddled; having trouble expressing their needs using typical words or motions; having unusual reactions to the way things smell, taste, look, feel or sound; and losing skills they once had.
All the causes of ASD are not known. However, we do know that there are likely many causes for multiple types of ASD. Environmental, biologic and genetic factors may put a child at risk. Genes are one of the risk factors, as is having a sibling with ASD. ASD tends to occur more often in people who have certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis. Valproic acid and thalidomide when taken during pregnancy have been linked with a higher risk. There is some evidence that the critical period for developing ASD occurs before, during, and immediately after birth. Children born to older parents are also at a greater risk.
There is currently no cure for ASD. If you think your child might have ASD or you think there could be a problem with the way your child plays, learns, speaks, or acts, contact your child’s doctor and share your concerns. If there is still concern, ask the doctor for a referral to a specialist who can do a more in-depth evaluation. At the same time, call your state’s public early childhood system to request a free evaluation to find out if your child qualifies for intervention services. You do not need to wait for a doctor’s referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call.
Where to call depends on your child’s age. If your child is not yet 3, contact your local early intervention system. Call the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center at 919-962-2001 or visit the ECTA website http://www.ectacenter.org/contact/ptccoord.asp. to find out where to call in your state. These services help children from birth to 3 years old learn important skills and can include therapy to help the child talk, walk and interact with others. If your child is 3 years or older, contact your local public school system.
Even if your child has not been diagnosed with an ASD, he or she may be eligible for early intervention treatment services. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act says that children under the age of 3 years who are at risk of having developmental delays may be eligible for services. In addition, treatment for particular symptoms such as speech therapy for language delays often does not need to wait for a formal ASD diagnosis.
Research shows that early intervention services can greatly improve a child’s development. In order to make sure your child reaches his or her full potential, it is very important to get help for an ASD as soon as possible.
—cdc.gov