Know The Signs
Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to significantly improved outcomes for children with autism.
Autism can be diagnosed as early as 18 months.
Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention can help a child to progress and lead to significantly improved life outcomes.
Verbal Language
Lack of or delay in spoken language or communication.
Repetitive Behavior
Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling objects).
Eye Contact
Little or no eye contact with caregivers or others.
Peer Relationships
Lack of interest in peers or difficulty in establishing relationships.
Spontaneous Play
Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play; preference for rigid play patterns.
Object Fixation
Persistent fixation on specific parts of objects or repetitive manipulation.
Understanding Diagnosis
There are no medical tests for diagnosing autism. An accurate diagnosis should be based on observation of the individual’s level of communication, behavior and development.
However, because many of the behaviors associated with autism are shared by other disorders, various medical tests may be ordered to rule out or identify other possible causes of the symptoms being exhibited. At a first glance, autism may appear as mental retardation with atypical behavioral symptoms that are odd and eccentric, or as a hearing problem.
An accurate diagnosis and early identification can provide the basis for building an appropriate and effective educational and treatment program.
A brief observation in a single setting cannot present a true picture of an individual’s abilities and behaviors. Parental and teacher input and developmental history are important components of making an accurate diagnosis.
Factors Contributing to Autism
Though there is no single known cause or cure, autism is treatable. With the right services and support, people with autism can live normal, healthy, and meaningful lives.
Research indicates that other factors besides genetic components are contributing to the increasing occurrences of Autism Spectrum Disorder, such as environmental toxins, that are present in the environment more now than in the past.
Findings on Metabolic Health
Findings indicate that many children with autism or those who are at risk of developing autism have a metabolic impairment that reduces their ability to rid their bodies of heavy metals and other toxins.
Build-up of these toxins in the body can lead to brain and nervous system damage and developmental delays.
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