What is Autism?

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorders?

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), also known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs), cause severe and pervasive impairment in thinking, feeling, language, and the ability to relate to others. These disorders are usually first diagnosed in early childhood and range from a severe form, called autistic disorder, through pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), to a much milder form, Asperger syndrome. They also include two rare disorders, Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder.

Basic Facts About Autism...

1. The term Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Development Disorder, Aspergers, Autism) encompasses a vast range of symptoms and disabilities from moderate to severe in intensity. It is a difficult condition to define. To put it simply, Autism affects how the brain processes or prioritizes the information it receives.

2. Some common symptoms are language delays, repetitive behaviors, an inability to communicate or relate to others, unresponsiveness to verbal cues, and a preference for solitary play or activities.

3. Autism affects as many as 1 in every 150 children. This rate of occurences, which was once reported as 1 in 500 in 1995, is on the rise.

4. It is four times more prevalent in boys than in girls.

5. It affects all races, ethnic groups, and social classes.

6. There is not a single nation on the planet untouched by Autism.

7. The exact cause of autism is unknown and may not be the same in every case. However, it is believed by some researchers that the increase in its rate of occurrence is linked to mercury in immunizations.

8. There is no cure for autism. That does not mean there is no hope. With the proper intervention it is possible to minimize the effects of autism so that the affected person can liver a richer and, in some cases, a normal life. (Autism Resources Online, 2004)

What causes Autism?

Autism has no single cause. Researchers have identified a number of genes that play a role in the disorder. In some children, environmental factors also may play a role in development of the disorder. Studies of people with autism have found abnormalities in several regions of the brain, including the cerebellum, amygdala, hippocampus, septum, and mamillary bodies. Neurons in these regions appear smaller than normal and have stunted nerve fibers, which may interfere with nerve signaling. These abnormalities suggest that autism results from disruption of normal brain development early in fetal development. Other studies suggest that people with autism have abnormalities of serotonin or other signaling molecules in the brain. While these findings are intriguing, they are preliminary and require further study. The early belief that parental practices are responsible for autism has now been disproved. (Medline Plus, 2004)

Do symptoms change over time?

Symptoms in many children with autism improve with intervention or as the children mature. Some people with autism eventually lead normal or near-normal lives. About a third of children with autistic spectrum disorders eventually develop epilepsy. The risk is highest in children with severe cognitive impairment and motor deficits. Adolescence may worsen behavior problems in some children with autism, who may become depressed or increasingly unmanageable. Parents should be ready to adjust treatment for their child's changing needs. (Medline Plus, 2004)

How can autism be treated?

There is no cure for autism at present. Therapies, or interventions, are designed to remedy specific symptoms in each individual. The best-studied therapies include educational/behavioral and medical interventions. Although these interventions do not cure autism, they often bring about substantial improvement. (Medline Plus, 2004)