Autism Spectrum Disorder
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects social interaction, communication and behavior in children.
What are the symptoms?
Children with ASD may develop repetitive routines, odd and unusual behaviors, problems with communicating with others, and lack of social awareness or interest in other people. These characteristics are common in children with autism.
Other symptoms of ASD may include:
- No smiling by six months of age
- No back and forth sharing of sounds, smiles or facial expressions by nine months
- No babbling, pointing, reaching or waving by 12 months
- No single words by 16 months
- No two word phrases by 24 months
- A decline in his/her development
- Loss of speech, babbling or social skills
How is it diagnosed?
Your child’s doctor will assess his/her behavior and development to make a diagnosis. Autism is usually identified by the time a child is 30 months old. It is often discovered when parents become concerned that their child may be deaf, is not yet talking, resists cuddling, and avoids interaction with others.
Most infants and young children like to interact with people and need contact with others to thrive and grow. Children with ASD do not interact in this normal manner and can appear to be in his or her own world.
What causes ASD?
The exact cause of ASD is unknown.
How is ASD treated?
Your child’s doctor will develop a custom care plan for your child to help manage his/her condition.
If you are concerned about your child or loved one, please contact the child and adolescent mental health team at 40036816 or childpsych@sidra.org