2nd April is known as the World Autism Awareness Day which started in the United States of America to spread awareness about Autism. Autism is a kind of disorder that occurs in children by birth.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a wide term used to portray a number of neurodevelopmental disorders. These issues are described by issues with communication and social interaction. Individuals with ASD regularly show limited, dull, and generalized interests or examples of conduct.
According to the center for disease control and prevention, autism occurs more in boys than girls. Some experts say that because of environmental factors the autism cases are increasing day by day.
Symptoms of autism
Symptoms of autism may be seen during the early stage of childhood such as at the stage of 12 or 24 months of age. It can be detected earlier or later by noticing the change or adaptation problem with language or with social interaction. Main symptoms of autism include:
- Issues with nonverbal communication, such as trouble maintaining eye contact or reading body language.
- Difficulties developing and maintaining relationships.
- Issues with communication.
- Repetitive conversation, movements, or activity.
- Fixated interests or preoccupations.
- Unbending adherence to explicit schedules or practices.
Causes of autism
According to some experts, the exact cause of developing autism is still not known and the most recent research suggests that there can be several causes for autism. There are some defined risk factors that can be a cause of the disorder:
- Genetic Mutation
- Being born to older parents than usual
- Low weight during or after birth
- Metabolic imbalances
- Having an immediate family member with autism
- A history of viral infections
Treatment of the Autism
According to Dr. Arun Maurya, Child Specialist, M.B.B.S “There are no particular treatments for autism but the level of symptoms and effects can be treated or lowered to some level. You just have to be patient with the kid with autism and spend time training them about things and activities by giving them your support and love”
There are some treatment approaches that involve therapies such as:
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Behavioural therapy
- Physical therapy
Children with mental imbalance may not arrive at similar formative achievements as their companions, or they may show a loss of social or language abilities. Giving up on a child with autism should not be an option because some kids have become an example of doing wonders while dealing with this disorder.