Autism, scientifically known as autism spectrum disorder, is a syndrome characterized by communication, socialization and behavioral problems, usually diagnosed between the ages of 2 and 3.
This syndrome causes the child to exhibit specific characteristics, such as difficulty speaking and expressing ideas and feelings, discomfort among others and poor eye contact, as well as repetitive patterns and stereotyped movements, such as sitting for a long time shaking the body from one side to the other. .
Therefore, there are symptoms and characteristics of autism
These signs and symptoms range from mild, which can even go unnoticed, but can also be moderate to severe, greatly interfering with the child’s behavior and communication. To learn how to identify an autistic person’s main symptoms, see autism symptoms.
All children can develop autism and its causes are still unknown, although more and more research is being done to find out.
Some studies have already managed to identify likely genetic factors, which may be hereditary, but it is also possible that environmental factors, such as infection with certain viruses, consumption of food types or contact with intoxicating substances, such as lead and mercury, for example, can have a significant effect on the development of the disease Some of the main possible causes include :
In addition, there are studies that indicate certain vaccines or replacement of excess folic acid during pregnancy, but there are still no definitive conclusions on these possibilities, and more research is needed to clarify this topic.
Diagnosis of autism is made by the pediatrician or psychiatrist, by observing the child and performing certain diagnostic tests, between the age of 2 and 3.
Autism can be confirmed when the child has the characteristics of the 3 areas affected by this syndrome: social interaction, behavioral change and communication failures, it is not necessary to present an exhaustive list of symptoms for the doctor to make the diagnosis, since this syndrome manifests itself to varying degrees and, therefore, the child can be diagnosed with mild autism For example. Look for signs of mild autism.
Thus, autism can sometimes be almost imperceptible and can be confused with shyness, inagging attention or eccentricity, such as Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism, for example. Therefore, the diagnosis of autism is not easy, and in case of suspicion, it is important to go to the doctor so that you can evaluate the development and behavior of the child, being able to indicate what he has and how to treat it.
There are different types of autistic people and the form of presentation or “autistic spectrum” is variable. Some patients have severe impairment and others mild, such as high-level autism. In the latter case, the individual can be very intelligent and develop sophisticated development. extremely easy for certain specific activities, such as mathematics like the American who inspired the film “Rain Man,” for example.
Some books that talk about this syndrome are: “The Strange Case of the Dead Dog,” by Ed. Record, and “An Anthropologist on Mars”, by Companhia das Letras. They are usually good readings for parents of children with autism, as they help understand the syndrome and how it can help your child.
Treatment will depend on the type of autism in the child and the degree of disability, but can be done with:
Although autism does not cure, treatment, when done correctly, can facilitate the care of the child, facilitating the lives of parents, in the most benign cases medication is not always necessary and the child can lead a life very close to normal, being able to study and work without restrictions. Get more details and options for treating autism.