Autism Overview
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a term used to describe a range of serious neurodevelopment disorders. Key symptoms that begin within the first two to three years of life are social impairment, difficulty with communication, poor motor control, and repetitive behaviors. Difficulties with sleep and digestive problems, among other challenges, are also seen.
It is not uncommon for people with ASD to display special skills in the arts or cognitive areas.
Within the spectrum, autism is a severe form of ASD, while Asperger syndrome is a mild form. Other disorders that fall within ASD are Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).
Recent increases in the incidence of ASD have caused alarm. Once rare, current estimates are that 1 in 88 young children have autism, with males four times as likely as females to receive the diagnosis.
Autism used to be considered untreatable, and therapies focused primarily on medications to control disruptive behaviors. Now, behavioral and biomedical treatments are available that can make a significant difference in the accomplishments and lifestyle of those with a diagnosis of ASD.
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With no obligation, you can sign up for a free copy of the latest Autism Parenting Magazine. The articles in this issue are listed below. See if there is something that resonates with you, or […]
Chapel Hill NC: For the first time, autism researchers used MRIs of six-month olds to show how brain regions are connected and synchronized, and then predict which babies are at high risk of developing autism […]
Environmental and Nutritional Tips to Improve Your Family’s Health This feature highlights reports, studies, and feedback on efforts that can make a positive impact in our quest for health. Topics we cover in this issue are included […]
This article was updated to provide a new summary and resources. Many youngsters on the autistic spectrum display signs of hypersensitivity to touch. Diane Corson, OT, PT, incorporates therapeutic body brushing into her work as […]
Environmental and Nutritional Tips to Improve Your Family’s Health This feature highlights reports, studies, and feedback on efforts that can make a positive impact in our quest for health. Topics we cover in this issue are included […]
Photophobia, or light sensitivity, is often reported for autism, ADHD, and Tourette syndrome or other tic disorders. In a 2014 survey of adults with ADHD, 69% reported being visually oversensitive to light. It is well […]
This published case study concerns a 12-year-old boy with autism spectrum disorder and severe cognitive disability. He had been in a residential setting since 2009. While testing indicated he did not have celiac disease, he […]
Environmental and Nutritional Tips to Improve Your Family’s Health This feature highlights reports, studies, and feedback on efforts that can make a positive impact in our quest for health. Topics we cover in this issue are included […]
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