Autism Spectrum Disorder

Symptoms

• Difficulty with social interactions and communication
• Repetitive behaviours or interests
• Sensory processing issues
• Difficulty adapting to change or new situations
• Delays in language development
• Struggles with social cues, such as eye contact, facial expressions, and tone of voice
• Difficulty with imaginative play or pretend play
• Limited interests or an unusually intense focus on certain topics

Causes

• Genetics: ASD tends to run in families, and research suggests that a person's genes may play a role in their risk of developing the disorder.
• Environmental factors: Research is ongoing to understand the role that environmental factors may play in the development of ASD. Some potential environmental factors that may be linked to ASD include:
• Maternal infection or inflammation during pregnancy
• Premature birth
• Exposure to toxins or pollution
• Other medical conditions that may occur during pregnancy, such as diabetes or epilepsy

Risk factors

• Family history: ASD tends to run in families, so if a family member has ASD, a person may be at an increased risk of developing the disorder.
• Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis, are associated with an increased risk of ASD.
• Being born premature: Children who are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy may be at an increased risk of ASD.
• Having a sibling with ASD: Children who have a sibling with ASD may be at an increased risk of developing the disorder themselves.

Complications

Difficulty with social interactions and communication: People with ASD may have trouble understanding and using social cues, such as eye contact, facial expressions, and tone of voice, which can make it difficult for them to communicate and interact with others.

• Repetitive behaviours or interests: Some people with ASD may have repetitive behaviours or interests, which can interfere with their ability to function in daily life.
• Sensory processing issues: People with ASD may have difficulty processing sensory information, such as sights, sounds, and touch, which can affect their ability to function in certain environments.
• Intellectual disability: Some people with ASD may have an intellectual disability, which can affect their ability to learn and function independently.
• Epilepsy: Some people with ASD may also have epilepsy, which is a disorder that causes seizures.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Some people with ASD may also have ADHD, which is a disorder that affects attention and impulsivity.

How to diagnose it?

ASD is typically diagnosed by healthcare professionals such as doctors, psychologists, or psychiatrists. To diagnose ASD, the healthcare professional will typically evaluate the person's behaviour and development, as well as their medical history. They may also observe the person's interactions with others and assess their communication skills.

There is no medical test, such as a blood test, that can diagnose ASD. Instead, the diagnosis is based on the person's symptoms and behaviours. To be diagnosed with ASD, a person must have persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, and they must also exhibit repetitive behaviours, interests, or activities.

ASD can be diagnosed at any age, but it is usually diagnosed in children. The earlier ASD is diagnosed and treatment is started, the better the outcome is likely to be. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have ASD, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for an evaluation.

How to prevent it?

• Providing supportive care, such as therapy and educational support
• Encouraging your loved one to participate in social activities and engage with others
• Helping your loved one develop communication and social skills
• Providing a structured and consistent routine
• Seeking support from other caregivers, such as family members or professional caregivers
• Staying informed about new developments in ASD research and treatment options

When do you need to see a doctor?

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have ASD, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes for people with ASD, so it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

FAQs