About Autism

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorders, sometimes called Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), are a range of neurological disorders that most markedly involve some degree of difficulty with (1) communication, (2) interpersonal relationships, and (3) obsessions and repetitive behaviors. As the term “spectrum” indicates, there can be a wide range of effects. Those at the lower-functioning end of the spectrum may be profoundly  unable to relate or interact with their surroundings or loved ones.  Those at the higher-functioning end, sometimes diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome (AS), may be able to lead independent lives but still be awkward in their social interactions.  Pervasive Developmental Disorder may be diagnosed when a child has a deficit in two of the three categories.

As many as 1 in 88 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Autism is 4 times more likely in boys with the national statistic indicating that 1 in 54 boys is affected.

Forms of Treatment

While autism is not yet curable, it is treatable with early diagnosis and implementation of intensive therapy interventions such as:

  • Speech therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Play-based floor therapy
  • Social therapy
  • Auditory integration therapy
  • Sensory integration therapy
  • Bio/Neuro Feedback
  • Oxygen therapy
  • Biomedical and Detoxification Therapy
  • Diet modification

Red Flag Warning Signs

The following “red flags” could be signs that a doctor should evaluate a child for autism or a related communication disorder:

  • Does not respond to his/her name
  • Cannot explain what he/she wants
  • Language skills/speech are delayed or language skills are lost at some time in development (used to say a few words or babble, but now he/she doesn’t)
  • Doesn’t follow directions, acts deaf or seems to hear sometimes, but not others
  • Does not point or wave bye-bye
  • Repeats words he or she hears but does not use spontaneous language
  • Throws intense or violent tantrums, is hyperactive, uncooperative or oppositional
  • Has odd movement patterns and is very uncoordinated in movements (most noticeable when running or during gross motor activities)
  • Cannot sequence steps to accomplish a task (wants a cup off of the table but cannot sequence steps to get to cup)
  • Uses the same toys repeatedly and obsessively and never varies game, play pattern or activity with toys
  • Does not smile when smiled at and lacks emotional affect
  • Poor eye contact
  • Does not transition between activities
  • Seems to prefer to play alone and is not interested or aware of activities going on around him or her.
  • Gets things for him/herself only
  • Does not share personal interest in item with parent or caregiver (Look at this, Mom!)
  • Child is very independent for age and hits milestones “early” compared to other children
  • Walks on his/her toes
  • Restrictively eats only a few favorite foods
  • Avoids or seeks messy activities involving hands or body
  • Avoids activities where feet leave the ground (swinging and/or climbing)
  • Child shows unusual attachments to toys, objects, or schedules (always holds something in hand or must put socks on before pants)
  • Child spends a lot of time lining things up or putting things in a certain order