Making the diagnosis of Autism can be challenging since there are no medical tests. Certain exams may be helpful to rule out hearing loss, speech difficulties, lead poisoning, or developmental problems. In addition, parents are asked questions about their child’s behavior and communication skills. Getting a diagnosis is a two-stage process which starts with your pediatrician. Every child is assessed at 18- and 24-month to ensure they are on track, even without symptoms. Doctor will check the baby’s response to your voice, smile, or other expressions among other things. A visit with the speech therapist and a hearing test is also warranted to assess for problems or delays in speech. Most children with autism will eventually speak just later than others. They may also speak in a sing-song or robotic way.
Trouble relating to other people is an important marker of an autism spectrum disorder. Children may avoid looking people in the eye, including their parents. They may focus intently on an object, while ignoring others around them for long periods of time. They may not use gestures, body posture, or facial expressions to communicate.
Getting treatment before age three, can greatly improve a child’s development. The type of treatment your child receives for ASD depends on their needs. Each autistic child is unique and so there are a variety of treatments. They can include different kinds of therapies to improve speech and behavior, and sometimes medications to help manage any medical conditions related to autism. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and improve learning and development.
There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, and there’s currently no medication to treat it. But some medicines can help with related symptoms like depression, seizures, insomnia, and trouble focusing. Studies have shown that medication is most effective when it’s combined with behavioral therapies.
An appropriate diet may help to ease autism symptoms and complement the success of other treatments. Diet restrictions can lead to poor development. Your doctor with a nutritionist should ensure good nutrition to help balance personal nutrition with medical and psychological treatments.
One study indicated that people with one autistic child have a 19% chance that another child will have it too. If two children have autism, the risk is even higher for a third sibling. A study of twins found that when one fraternal male twin has autism, there’s a 31% chance that the other twin will have it, too. When autism affects a boy with an identical twin, there’s a 77% chance that both boys will have an ASD.
Apart from medical care and therapies, there are simple things that make a difference. Focus on the positive, stay consistent and on schedule, take your child along for daily activities to familiarize them with their environment and get support! Parents need to take a break and get a chance to do things that restore their own health. Most importantly, as a parent, loving your child for who they are is key.
Dr. Raymala Maharaj
M.B.B.S (U.W.I)