The degree of severity varies with ASD regarding different behavioural manifesta- tions.
The causes of ASD are uncertain but possible factors include heredity which means that the gene or physical composition of parents can be passed down to the children causing ASD.
According to the DSM-V guide people with ASD present with a range of symptoms including difficulty with communication and social interaction with people.
Secondly, with limited interests and repetitive behaviour, and lastly limited ability to be functional in school, work and other major major areas of daily life.
Social communication and interaction difficulties can be broken down into a list of simplified symptoms which include limited or inconsistent eye contact, being slow to respond to someone calling their name, difficulty with conversation, facial expression and gestures that do not match what is being said or done, as well as talking at length about a subject that has little interest to any-one.
Symptoms of restrictive and repetitive behaviour include getting upset by changes in routine, being more or less sensitive to sensory inputs such as noise, light or temperature.
This also includes repetitive hand or body movements and having intense interest and focus on topics of certain interest.
Doctors are able to diagnose children and adolescents with ASD using a range of
screening tools.
Once an individual has been diagnosed a range of treatments and therapies can be used and should be started as soon as possible to reduce further difficulties in developing new skills and behaviours.
Treatments include medication, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, and becoming a member of a local support group.
If any parent has further queries please do not hesitate to contact Megan McLoskey at the Parys District Hospital at the rehab department on 056 8162154 or drop in for a further referral. ( Reference: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd/index.shtml)
