Diagnosis
Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be difficult, since there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorders. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis. ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered very reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until much older. This delay means that children with an ASD might not get the help they need.
Diagnosing an ASD takes two steps:
Developmental Screening
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Diagnosing an ASD takes two steps:
Developmental Screening
Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
Developmental ScreeningDevelopmental screening is a short test to tell if children are learning basic skills when they should, or if they might have delays. During developmental screening the doctor might ask the parent some questions or talk and play with the child during an exam to see how she learns, speaks, behaves, and moves. A delay in any of these areas could be a sign of a problem. It is important for doctors to screen all children for developmental delays, but especially to monitor those who are at a higher risk for developmental problems due to preterm birth, low birth weight, or having a brother or sister with an ASD. If your child’s doctor does not routinely check your child with this type of developmental screening test, ask that it be done.If the doctor sees any signs of a problem, a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is needed.
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Comprehensive Diagnostic EvaluationThe second step of diagnosis is a comprehensive evaluation. This thorough review may include looking at the child’s behavior and development and interviewing the parents. It may also include a hearing and vision screening, genetic testing, neurological testing, and other medical testing. In some cases, the primary care doctor might choose to refer the child and family to a specialist for further assessment and diagnosis. Specialists who can do this type of evaluation include:
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Symptoms
The main features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are problems with social communication and interaction.
Spoken language
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Responding to others
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Interacting with others
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Behavior
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Treatment
There are many approaches, therapies and interventions for improving the lives of autistic people. Early diagnosis and treatment helps young children with autism develop to their full potential.There are no medications that can cure ASD or treat the core symptoms. However, there are medications that can help some people with ASD function better. The primary goal of treatment is to improve the overall ability of the child to function. Below are three treatment options out of the many other treatments there are.
Behavioral Training and ManagementUses positive reinforcement, self-help, and social skills training to improve behavior and communication. Many types of treatments have been developed, including Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH), and sensory integration.
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Specialized TherapiesThese include speech, occupational, and physical therapy. These therapies are important components of managing autism and should all be included in various aspects of the child's treatment program. Speech therapy can help a child with autism improve language and social skills to communicate more effectively. Occupational and physical therapy can help improve any deficiencies in coordination and motor skills. Occupational therapy may also help a child with autism to learn to process information from the senses (sight, sound, hearing, touch, and smell) in more manageable ways.
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Sensory Integration TherapySensory integration therapy helps the person deal with sensory information, like sights, sounds, and smells. Sensory integration therapy could help a child who is bothered by certain sounds or does not like to be touched.
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