Friday, September 26, 2008

Diagnosing Autism - What Should You Do If You Suspect Autism In Your Child?


Autistic children are often diagnosed with their condition by or around age three. Though there may be times when a parent is aware that there is something going on when the child is at a young age, higher functioning forms of autism are often harder to spot. Symptoms vary from child to child. There are some signs that all children with autism will have, however, and when these are present, a trip to the doctor for help might be warranted. Some cases can be caught very early. No matter how severe or how subtle the signs are a doctor diagnosing autism will look for every known issue.

The parents are normally the first to pick up on the signs of autism as they notice a lack in normal development, but there are times when a physician might bring up the possibility first.

There can be signs in some children when they reach one years of age. These children are often slow with communication, and may not be using words when other children are building their vocabulary.

Odd reactions to noises and other environmental stimulus might also be a clue. Children with autism tend to prefer solo play, and they may do things over and over again in a manner that a parent might question.

Autistic children are also be prone to tantrums, and these are usually over things most children tolerate well, such as a small shift in daily routine.

Socialization issues like eye contact and interaction with peers might be missing as well. Some autistic children are also motor impaired.

Doctors will often begin by eliminating medical reasons for the behaviors. One of the first things they may check for is a hearing impairment. Loss of or lack of hearing can explain some behaviors that might otherwise be associated with autism.

Hearing loss or impairment often explains delayed speech or other speech issues. It also explains why a child might not startle when confronted with a loud noise. There may be some genetic testing done too, to rule out developmental delays for other reasons, and the child might also be tested for seizure activity.

When medical testing comes up with nothing, this is when a doctor will turn to diagnosing autism. Though there are no medical tests that can confirm this condition, there are behaviors that are classic to those with this condition.

The doctor will question the parents about the child’s activities and how each day might go for them, and they may study the child on their own. There are three main themes a doctor will look for when determining if a child might have autism. These are socialization problems, communication level (or lack of), and behaviors.

When parents think there might be a problem, they should see someone about diagnosing autism as soon as possible. If medical testing finds nothing, and autism is suspected, it is good to know as early as possible.

When autism is diagnosed at a young age, things will be better in the long run. There are many great tools parents can use to help their autistic children integrate with the world. Early diagnosis is something that helps higher functioning children more, but even classic autism can be helped to some degree.

There is as yet no cure, but diagnosing autism early and getting the help needed with communicating and socialization can help a child out. Though there is no parent who hopes for this diagnosis, the earlier it can be found the better the child and family can cope.

Submitted By: Kathryn Whittaker

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