Autism spectrum disorders belong to a group of developmental disabilities characterized by how individuals' brains process information in very different ways than other people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. Autism occurs in about one in 110 individuals in the United States and the CDC indicates that rates appear to be increasing as of 2010. The increased prevalence of the disorder may be due to improved awareness and diagnosis or because more people are afflicted with the disorder.
Considerations
Autism occurs as a spectrum of different disorders, all with differing levels of severity and symptoms. The National Institute of Child Health & Human Development identifies that the spectrum includes autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder, which may include childhood disintegrative disorder and Rett syndrome. The Autism Society warns that children with autism will not grow out of it. With this in mind, early intervention is an essential component in improving the long-term prospects of someone with autism. Therefore, identification of symptoms of autism in infancy is an important aspect of beginning treatment as early as possible. The presence of some of the symptoms of autism, however, does not necessarily mean the child has the disorder.
Causes
There exists no single known cause of autism, according to MayoClinic.com. Likely, the cause varies as each individual with autism appears different from another. MayoClinic.com indicates that as with many other health problems, both genetic and environmental factors play a key role in the development of autism. The CDC states that genetics play an important role in the cause of autism, as infants who have relatives afflicted with autism carry a higher risk. Certain medical conditions tend to cause autism, according to the CDC, including fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis and Down syndrome. Exposure to harmful drugs in utero, viral infection and environmental pollution also may cause autism. The CDC points out that poor parenting does not have any connection in causing the disorder.
Social Problems
One common indicator of autism spectrum disorder is problems with social interaction. These problems become evident in infancy, the National Institute for Mental Health indicates, with the child showing limited to no interaction with people around him and an avoidance of eye contact. Infants with autism may appear to prefer solitude, not caring if others are around. They may resist or demonstrate apathy towards physical affection, such as hugs, kissing or cuddling. The National Institute of Mental Health indicates that the parent of a child with autism may feel her child is unattached to her; however, some researchers believe that infants with autism show attachment in non-typical means.
Communication Problems
Infants with autism often fail to meet milestones regarding verbal communication, the National Institute of Mental Health indicates. The infant may fail to exhibit typical baby speak, such as babbling or cooing and, in some cases, may not speak at all throughout his lifetime. In other types of autism disorders infants develop communication skills normally and then abruptly stop or even regress, while in Asperger's disorder children generally develop verbal communication normally from infancy. The CDC indicates that infants may fail to make expected gestures, such as pointing at interesting objects or waiving. Further, the National Institute of Mental Health states that the infant may fail to respond to his name.
Other Signs and Symptoms
Further signs and symptoms of autism in infancy, as identified by the National Institute of Mental Health, include a failure to smile, not knowing how to play with toys and seeming hearing impaired. MayoClinic.com identifies further symptoms, including extreme difficulties dealing with changes in routines, becoming fascinated with parts of objects, and sensitivity to light, sound and touch, though the child may ignore pain.
Treatment
The National Institute of Mental Health indicates that there is no cure for autism; however, early intervention greatly improves the outcome for the infant. Overall, treatment addresses the child's ability to function and learn. The CDC states that interventions from birth may involve therapy aimed at improving the child's ability to talk, walk and function socially. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, even children under the age of three may be eligible for an evaluation and treatment from state services if they are deemed at risk for a developmental delay, according to the CDC.
