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An autism diagnosis for your child may cause you to feel shocked and maybe a little scared. However, knowledge is power, and the more you know, the better you will understand the condition and be prepared to deal with it. Here are four critical facts about autism that may interest the public overall.
In This Post:
More Kids are Being Diagnosed with Autism
Over the past couple of decades, the number of autism diagnoses has skyrocketed. According to the National Autism Association, 1 in 59 children are affected by autism, and boys are four times likelier than girls to be diagnosed with autism. Although symptoms can appear and be diagnosed in babies as young as six months, the average age of diagnosis is four years old. Some high-functioning autistic individuals may not be diagnosed until adulthood.
Autism is on a Spectrum Scale
Rather than representing a single condition, autism is a spectrum of several types of symptoms that uniquely affect each person who has it. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) include Asperger’s syndrome, which is a higher-functioning form of autism. Common symptoms include limitations in communication and social interaction, that is, many autistic children speak few words in toddlerhood, and they may display little interest in playing with other children. There are many other warning signs as well. Due to possible genetic and environmental issues, autism may be severe, moderate, or slight based on a developmental range.
There is Currently No Cure
Although health care professional and medical researchers are learning more about this increasingly common condition, there is still much they don’t know. At present there is no cure. More studies are being conducted to explore additional factors that may play a role in causation and treatment that could one day hopefully lead to a cure. Many people with autism can lead fairly normal lives that include careers, marriage, and other regular activities. Others may require life-long support and assistance in a variety of ways.
Effective Treatments are Available
Early diagnosis is key to improvement of symptoms. Many autistic individuals make tremendous progress with the help of several types of therapies, including the use of sensory toys for kids, as some children experience sensory disorders stemming from autism. Occupational and physical therapy are often quite successful in helping autistic people to live more normal lives.If your child is diagnosed with autism, learn all you can from reliable sources so you can help your child to live a fulfilling and enjoyable life.