Autism Meaning
Autism Meaning
Recent studies have shown a strong genetic component to autism. Children’s risk for autism increases when certain genes are altered. If either or both parents are carriers of these gene changes, then the child may be at risk for developing autism. In other cases, these genetic alterations occur in very early embryos or in the sperm and egg that eventually fuse to form an embryo. Again, the vast majority of these gene changes do not automatically result in autism. They only make the disease more likely to occur.
Although the name “autism” has been used to describe the disorder since the 1940s, not much was known about it until recently. We still know relatively little about autism.
Because autism is so multifaceted and no two autistic people are alike, it’s possible that there are many potential causes. It’s also possible that there is no single cause of autism but rather a combination of circumstances.
Alterations to Brain Physiology
In what ways do autism’s underlying genetic and environmental causes interact? Most of these seem to affect critical elements of infant brain development. Some appear to disrupt the normal functioning of the brain by preventing neurons from talking to one another. It seems that the actions of others affect the way different parts of the brain talk to one another. Research is ongoing to better understand these differences in order to develop medications and services that can improve quality of life.
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A Look at Autism’s Cure
There is currently no cure for autism. A child’s potential for development is affected by autism, but early intervention can make a big difference. If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s important to go to a doctor right away.
A problem that works for one person could not for another. Treatment for you or your child should be individualized by your doctor. The two most common types of treatment are:
Medication for treating anxiety, hyperactivity, and inattention associated with autism spectrum disorder.
Behavioral and communication therapy are used to help with organization and structure. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is one such treatment, as it promotes good behavior while discouraging bad ones. Occupational therapy can help with things like eating, dressing, and socializing. Sensory integration therapy may help those who have trouble processing what they see, hear, or feel. Speech therapy helps people learn to express themselves more effectively.
Complementary therapy may help some autistic people communicate and learn more effectively. Some examples of complementary therapies include the use of music, art, or animals (via activities like horseback riding or even swimming with dolphins).
Adults with a Diagnosis of Autism
Getting an ASD diagnosis as an adult might be challenging for a variety of reasons.
Those who were never properly diagnosed as children may now display less severe symptoms that are harder to spot. Rarely do these folks ever get a proper diagnosis.
Those who have dealt with ASD for a longer period of time may be better at masking the condition’s signs and symptoms.
ADOS-2 is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools for adults, and studies have demonstrated that it has some validity. However, a physician needs to be aware of the patient’s symptoms in order to suggest testing.
Living with Autism
Living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be difficult for some adults. They may have difficulty communicating, become overly focused on rituals, or become overly sensitive to sensory inputs.
Adults may also suffer from many of the same symptoms that autistic children do. However, adults with these symptoms may have trouble functioning independently in daily life.
Researchers found that 27 percent of autistic people who participated in their study on services and outcomes were unemployed. Furthermore, there may be fewer resources available for adults with autism compared to children with the disorder. In the same poll, 25% of autistic people complained that they weren’t getting enough help.