What causes autism? What are some signs that my child may have autism?

1. What causes autism? What are some signs that my child may have autism? Autism was first described in the 1940s but remained unknown until recent decades. Even today, there are many things we do not know about autism. Because autism is so complex and no two people are the same, there are many potential causes of it. Also, autism can be caused by a combination of multiple causes rather than just one. People with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) may act, communicate, interact, and learn differently than most other people. Often there is nothing about their appearance that distinguishes them from other people. People with ASD vary in their abilities. For example, some people with ASD have advanced conversational skills, while others are non-verbal. Some of the ASD patients need a lot of help in their daily lives. Others can work and live with little or no

2. support. Hence, determining the nature of Autism through ASD Diagnosis is crucial. Genetic risk factors for autism Research shows that autism tends to run in families. Certain gene alterations increase the risk of a child developing autism. If a parent has one or more of these genetic alterations, they can be passed on to their children (even if the parent does not have autism). In other cases, these genetic changes occur spontaneously during the early stages of gestation. Again, most of these genetic alterations do not cause autism, they simply increase the risk of disease. How Parents Can Spot Warning Signs? As a parent, you are in the best position to detect the earliest signs of autism. You know your child better than anyone, and you observe behaviors and habits that your pediatrician may not see in a short 15-minute visit. Your child's pediatrician can be a valuable partner, but do not neglect the importance of your own observations and experiences. It is about understanding what is not. Social interactions and communication skills Examples of social communication and social interaction characteristics related to ASD can include •Avoid or does not keep eye contact •Does not respond to name by 9 months of age •Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age •Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months of age •Uses few or no gestures by 12 months of age (for example, does not wave goodbye) •Does not share interests with others by 15 months of age (for example, shows you an object that they like) •Does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months (about 1 and a half years) of age •Does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months (about 2 years) of age

3. •Does not notice other children and join them in play by 36 months (about 3 years) of age •Does not pretend to be something else, like a teacher or superhero, during play by 48 months (about 4 years) of age •Does not sing, dance, or act for you by 60 months (about 5 years) of age Behavioral differences (repetitive & obsessive behaviors) in children with autism •Rocks, spins, sways, twirls finger, walks on toes for a long time, or flaps hands (called "stereotypic behavior" or stereotypies) •Likes routines, order, and rituals; has difficulty with change or transition from one activity to another •May be obsessed with a few or unusual activities, doing them repeatedly during the day •Plays with parts of toys instead of the whole toy (e.g., spinning the wheels of a toy truck) •May not cry if in pain or seem to have any fear •May be extremely sensitive or not sensitive at all to smells, sounds, lights, textures, and touch •May have unusual use of vision or gaze—looks at objects from unusual angles But up to half of parents of children with ASD noticed issues by the time their child reached 12 months, and between 80% and 90% noticed problems by 2 years. Children with ASD will have symptoms throughout their lives, but it is possible for them to get better as they get older. Conclusion The autism spectrum is very wide. Some people might have very noticeable issues, others might not. The common thread is differences in social skills, communication, and behavior compared with people who are not on the spectrum. But to clarify that thought, we need to clarify the child's condition. Empower therapy may be the best choice for you. Call us now to book your appointment slot with our expert therapists!