While there is no one cure or prevention of autism, genetics and environmental factors seem to increase the risk of autism. Autism is a spectrum of developmental disabilities that cause social, behavioral and communication problems. There is hope for reducing autism symptoms with behavioral and communication therapies, dietary changes and medication. Early intervention services are the best way to prevent autism symptoms from worsening.
Step 1
Know the risks of developing autism. Avoiding viral infections in the third trimester of pregnancy, such as rubella, may help prevent autism. Studies show viral infections to have a possible link to autism. Kids with Fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis also have higher probability of getting autism. If you have children with either of these, make sure you avoid other risks factors associated with autism.
Step 2
While there is a lot of controversy over a link between autism and vaccines, you can look for safer vaccines. Toxins such as mercury do impair brain development. Talk to your doctor about getting only vaccines that are free of thimerosal (mercury preservative) and other potentially hazardous preservatives. Thimerosal has been taken out of children's vaccines, but is still common in vaccines given to pregnant women, such as flu shots.
Step 3
If you have a history of autism in your family, avoid environmental toxins. Talk to your doctor about protecting yourself from environmental exposures during pregnancy. Avoid things that are known to impair brain development, such as fish with high mercury content. Also consider avoiding mercury in other forms and aluminum in vaccines. You may also consider water filtration and checking with your dentist about the safety of amalgam, or tooth fillings.
Step 4
If there are any red flags for autism, seek behavioral or communication therapies as soon as possible. Increasing a child's ability to communicate and reducing problem behaviors can greatly reduce autism symptoms.
Step 5
Some parents have been able to reduce symptoms of autism with diet interventions. The theory is that food allergies and a lack of vitamin absorption greatly increase autism behaviors. Many parents have seen success in treating their child with dietary restrictions or supplements. Check with your doctor to make sure your child gets adequate nutrition in any preventive diet.
