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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others, regulate emotions, and tolerate changes in routine and one’s environment. Symptoms of ASD typically appear in the first two years of life.
Autism; Autistic disorder; Asperger disorder; Pervasive developmental disorder
Scientists don’t know the exact causes of ASD. However, research suggests that genes and environmental influences affect development in ways that lead to ASD.
Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. However, some research suggests that girls may not show autism in the same way as boys and might go undiagnosed as a result.
ASD also occurs more frequently among individuals who have certain medical conditions, including fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, and congenital rubella syndrome.
While there has been speculation that vaccines cause autism, extensive research by scientists for the past two decades has determined there is no link between vaccines and autism.
Risk factors for ASD include:
The behaviors of ASD often become apparent to parents by in early childhood. Children with ASD have difficulty with social communication and interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
People with ASD may not understand or appropriately use:
People with ASD may have difficulty with:
People with ASD may have restricted and repetitive behaviors such as:
Not all people with ASD will show all behaviors, but most will show several.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children get be screened for autism at their 18- and 24-month routine exams – and whenever a parent or doctor has concerns. Additional screening may be needed if a child is at a high risk for ASD.
Screening does not diagnose ASD. Rather, it flags behaviors often associated with the condition.
Children who show developmental problems during this screening process will be referred to a specialist for a diagnostic evaluation.
If a full evaluation is recommended, seeking expert assessment using an evidenced-based instrument (i.e. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule [ADOS]) is preferred. Due to the complex and wide range of skills and impairments of those living with ASD, a comprehensive evaluation is required. The evaluation may examine:
A medical diagnosis is made by a physician based on an assessment of symptoms and diagnostic tests. A diagnosis of ASD is made by a physician according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM 5).
The earlier an ASD diagnosis is made, the sooner appropriate educational and treatment programming can begin.
Treatment for ASD should begin as soon as possible after diagnosis. Early treatment can reduce individuals’ difficulties while helping them learn new skills and make the most of their strengths.
Every child or adult with autism has unique challenges. Thus, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to ASD treatment and intervention.
Intervention can involve behavioral treatments, medications, or both.
Behavioral treatments include:
Medication may treat some symptoms that are common with ASD, such as:
The stress of being a caregiver of a person living with ASD can be overwhelming. Social and emotional problems for families, caregivers, and siblings are important to be addressed. There are many support and social groups in Alachua and surrounding Florida counties that offer support to people with ASD and their loved ones.
A range of physical and mental-health conditions frequently accompany autism. They include, but are not limited to, the following:
ASD is a lifelong condition. However, with proper treatment and support, many ASD symptoms can be improved and many individuals with ASD may be to live with their families or in the community.
Parents usually suspect that there is a developmental problem long before a diagnosis is made. Call your provider if you think that your child is not developing normally.
Our community and patient programs provide great value to patients, families and loved ones. People can find support, educational materials, expert consultants and more. In most instances, these programs are offered free of charge.
Tools help discover your career goals, values and strengths.
Accessible events that help people with autism live lives of full engagement.
Inclusive, accessible events for people with autism and their supporters.
Time for caregivers to relax, talk and share about our children and experiences.
Provides support and assistance with the goal of optimizing the potential of people with autism and related disabilities.
Provides a range of services: diagnostic evaluation and consultation for children and youth who have complex medical, educational, emotional and/or behavioral problems.
Helps children who do not have conventional communication systems to become more able communication partners.
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