What is autism?

Autism is referred to as a neuro-developmental disorder, usually referred to as ASD. In most of the cases, genetics is seen as the prime cause, but the other factors like, the environmental factors also being looked for.

It has been observed that children with ASD have commotion in social reciprocity, communication; it could be verbal and non-verbal, they have restricted range of interests that is, unusual when seen in age group of same people. These people sense and respond in a different way, from the regular bunch of people. Their behavior is thus called as “abnormal behavior”. These features may range in different way, in different people. In some it may range from mild to severe, in severity, the characteristics may also vary among individuals.

It should be noted that, not two autistic children are same. Hence, the umbrella term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is used for the diagnosis for autism. Though, Asperger’s Disorder and pervasive developmental disorder is not specified.

It also has been seen that children with ASD have partial symptoms or full syndromes of hyperactivity disorder, attention deficient, mood disorder, anxiety and other kinds of mental retardation. It has also been observed that in some cases the kids may even develop seizure disorder, this may happen in early childhood or later at their adolescent age.

The reasons are still unknown, mostly debated and the statistics even reveal that the disorder has increased in last decade. In a recent study that was conducted in the USA, it was found that one in 150 individuals, among eight year olds are found to be having ASD. And the male preponderance is at ratio 4:1. In fact the condition is not restricted in America only; kids all over the globe are found to have shown a steady increase in ASD, in last decade.

As on date there is no immediate cure or treatment for ASD. Though the condition can definitely get alleviated and improved with regular interventions. But one can deny the fact the symptoms still persists and continues in the person’s adulthood. The treatment is addressed for both short term and long term needs.

Autism requires a multi disciplinary management with the able service and guidance of a physician, psychologist, speech therapist, special instructors, other occupation therapist’s etc. Counseling is mandatory for both the patient having ASD and the parents and the close relatives. One with mutual understanding and love and affection towards the patient the symptoms could be reduced.