Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

What is autism?

Autism is a neurological condition that’s characterized by social communication challenges and repetitive behaviors. Also called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), autism varies in severity from person to person. People with autism have a range of strengths as well as challenges, and may need support or assistance accomplishing certain tasks.

 

Children are most commonly diagnosed with autism, but adults can also be autistic or receive an autism diagnosis. ASD is a lifelong condition. While there is no cure, autistic people can live fulfilling and healthy lives.

What causes autism?

Autism does not have a known cause or set of causes. Some studies suggest that it is genetic, as parents with autism are more likely to have children with autism. As doctors continue to study ASD, they may learn more about what causes it.

Vaccines do not cause autism, and provide many personal and community health benefits. Tylenol also does not cause autism. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about vaccines or painkillers.

How is autism diagnosed?

Autism can be diagnosed by qualified medical professionals such as psychiatrists, family physicians, neurologists and pediatricians. ASD is diagnosed according to criteria set by the American Psychiatric Association.

Persons officially diagnosed with autism struggle to:

• Display social-emotional skills, like not being able to hold a conversation or failing to initiate or respond to social interactions
• Communicate nonverbally, like not making eye contact or being able to display emotions via body language
• Maintain or understand relationships, like failing to fit into different social spaces or lacking an interest in their peers

Additionally, autistic people usually:

• Display repetitive actions, like spinning objects or often using a specific word or phrase
• Struggle with flexibility, like strictly adhering to patterns or displaying distress at small changes in their world
• Fixate on specific interests, usually with an intense focus
• React disproportionately to sensory input, like recoiling to noise or being indifferent to pain or discomfort

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it can be minor or significant. An autistic person may display all or some signals of autism. In the past, some people were diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. Asperger’s is no longer a diagnosis today, and it’s now considered part of autism spectrum disorder.  

Talk to your doctor if you suspect you or your child have autism.

What treatment is there for autism?

Autism can’t be treated, and children do not “outgrow” autism. Research does show that people with autism can benefit from behavior and language therapy. The earlier therapy starts for a child, the more effective the results. Medicine can also help manage some symptoms, such as aggression or sleeplessness.

Autistic people can live normal, healthy lives. As a parent of an autistic child, you may need to find creative ways to teach and connect with your child, such as creating routines or habits so your child feels safe and relaxed. If you’re an autistic person yourself, ask your doctor to recommend a counselor or support group.