Things you need to know about Autism

Let’s start with the basics. What is Autism? Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD) can be defined as a term used to describe a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders. These disorders can be characterized based on social and communicative deficits and restricted interests and behaviours. These deficits or differences evolve and affect over time and areas of cognitive, social, and behavioural development.

The symptoms can vary from child to child. These symptoms become evident during early childhood around 1 or 2 years. One of the most common early symptoms is a marked delay in language and social development like mentioned above. Other symptoms are as below:

• Avoiding eye contact
• Doing repetitive movements
• Following the same routine and getting upset when the routine is disturbed.  
• Increase or decrease in sensitivity to specific sensory information.
• Difficulty in developing and maintaining relationships

Autism is a disorder that demands care, attention, and patience. Below are a few things every human being must know about autism to make the world a better place for autism patients. 

• Sometimes signs of autism are not clear during the infancy period
• Autism is different patterns and can be different for different children
• Although children with autism can appear distant, they do love and care for their families and near ones; it is just that they are not good with expressing themselves most of the time.
• Adults with autism can perform job duties well
• It is common for them to have repetitive patternal behaviour or focused interests.
• Most of the people with autism also experience anxiety
• There is no known cause for autism
• Ultimately, as of now at least, there is no cure for autism

Although there is no end cure for autism, therapies can alleviate the symptoms to a certain level. The treatment procedures usually include behavioural therapy, play therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy.

If you feel anything unsual about your child’s development, it is best advised to consult a specialist in ASD. Earlier detection makes treatment procedures easier. It is also important to note that the families taking care of children with autism need the help and support from the soceity and that’s the least we can do for them.