Autism is a lifetime intellectual disorder that affects the way
person communicates to other people. It may also effects visual and hearing
senses causing many other physical issues. People with Autism Spectrum Disorders, can
have similar difficulties but many different symptoms which makes every
presentation unique. Some have problems with speech but can understand
conversation, while other sufferers not only have difficulty understanding
conversation, but don’t understand the basic concept of reciprocal
conversation. Whilst many people with autism are able to live independently there
are others who rely completely on other people for even the most basic daily
needs.
Current
estimates of the number of people suffering from Autism Spectrum Disorders in U.K,
Scotland, Wales, England, and Northern Ireland is thought to be one in a
hundred. The exact cause of autism is still unknown although it is thought to
be a combination of genetic and environmental. Autism effects the early development of the brain. Excessive neuronal
growth is thought to lead to a misfiring and lack of communication between
brain structures. However, although this process is occurring very early in
life, most symptoms don’t become obvious until age 3.
Parents
are often the first people to recognize that something is ‘not quite right’
with their child’s behaviour. However, the behaviours
need to be present for at least six months before diagnosis can be made. Early
indication of autism may include some of the following symptoms:
·
Very little direct eye contact.
·
Little or no response to
his/her name being said repeatedly
·
No childish and joyful expressions by six months.
·
No sharing of facial expressions and sounds.
·
Difficulty in imitating or repeating words by even 2 years.
·
Many communication and social issues in adult age.
·
It is difficult for some patients to make relations and
new friends.
If parents are confused about the diagnosis
then they may take their child to a Psychologist. A diagnosis will not be made
unless three professionals agree that the child is autistic. Typically this
will include a Psychologist, a Paediatrician and a speech therapist. Although
there is no blood screening currently available to test for the presence of autism,
psychologists are able to use screening tools such as the M-CHAT (Modified
Checklist of Autism in Toddlers) to determine the likelihood that your child
has autism. If you are in any doubt, please contact the Behavioural Neurotherapy
Clinic in Doncaster. This clinic specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of
autism and can help formulate a treatment plan for your child. 
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