What is Autism?

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term “spectrum” in autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity.

Autism spectrum disorder begins in early childhood and eventually causes problems functioning in society-socially, in school and at work. Often children show symptoms of autism within the first year. A small number of children appear to develop normally in the first year, and then go through a period of regression between 18-24 months of age when they develop autism symptoms.

While there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, intensive, early treatment can make a big difference in the lives of many children.

When to see a doctor:

Babies develop at their own pace, and many don’t follow exact timelines found in some parenting books. But children with autism spectrum disorder usually show some signs of delayed development before the age of 2 years.

If you’re concerned about your child’s development or you suspect that your child may have autism spectrum disorder, discuss your concerns with your doctor The symptoms associated with the disorder can also be lined with other developmental disorders.

Signs of autism spectrum disorder often appear early in development when there are obvious delays in language skills and social interactions. Your doctor may recommend developmental tests to identify if your child has delays in cognitive, language and social skills, if your child:

*Doesn’t respond with a smile or happy expression by 6 months

*Doesn’t mimic sounds or facial expressions by 9 months

*Doesn’t babble or coo by 12 months

*Doesn’t gesture-such as point or wave- by 14 months

*Doesn’t say single words by 16 months

*Doesn’t play “ make believe” or pretend by 18 months

*Doesn’t say two-word phrases by 24 months

*Loose language skills or social skills at any age.