Autism: Symptoms, Treatment And Coping

                

 

There is an estimation of three to six of very 1,000 children have autism. Autism is a brain disorder associated with developmental problems mainly in communication and social interaction. The disorder affects boys more often than girls. Signs of this disorder usually appear before age 3.

Diagnosis and treatment has greatly improved in the past few decades, however, autism cannot be cured. It persists throughout life. The recent increase in the number of autism cases in the United States may be more the result of improved diagnosis and changes in diagnostic criteria.

Severity of symptoms is different in each case. Some children are able to grow up and live independently, while others may always need supportive living and working environments. Early, intensive treatment can make a difference.
Signs and symptoms of autism include:

?Fails to respond to his or her name
?Has poor eye contact
?Appears not to hear you at times
?Resists cuddling and holding
?Appears unaware of others? feelings
?Seems to prefer playing alone - - retreats into his or her ?own world?
?Starts talking later than other children
?Loses previously acquired ability to say words or sentences
?Does not make eye contact when making requests
?Speaks with an abnormal tone or rhythm ? may use a singsong voice or robot-like speech
?Can?t start a conversation or keep one going
?May repeat words or phrases verbatim, but does not understand how to use them
?Performs repetitive movements like rocking, spinning or hand-flapping
?Develops specific routines or rituals
?Becomes disturbed at the slightest change in routines or rituals
?Moves constantly
?May be fascinated by parts of an object, such as the spinning wheels of a toy car
?May be unusually sensitive to light, sound and touch

Some children with autism become more engaged with others as they mature. They may show less marked disturbances in behavior. Those with the least severe impairments may eventually lead normal or near-normal lives. Others continue to have severe impairments in language or social skills. The adolescent years may mean a worsening of behavior problems.

The majority of children with autism are slow to acquire new knowledge or skills. However, there is an extremely small number of children with autism who have exceptional skills in a specific are such as art or math.

There is no identifiable cause for autism. Researchers believe the disorder is related to abnormalities in several regions of the brain. Researchers have also identified a number of gene defects associated with autism.

Extensive studies have shown no link between vaccines, particularly the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine and other vaccines containing thimerosal and autism.

When should you seek medical advice? Many babies do not follow the exact timelines found in some parenting books. Children with autism usually show some signs of delayed development by 18 months. The earlier treatment begins the more effective it will be.

If your baby falls into any of the following categories you should check with your doctor about further evaluation:

?Baby does not babble or coo by 12 months of age
?Baby does not point or wave or perform similar gestures by the age of 12 months
?Baby does not say single words by 16 months
?Baby does not use two-word phrases by 24 months
?Baby loses previously acquired language or social skills at any age

Making a diagnosis is difficult because the severity and manifestations of autism varies widely from child to child. There is no medical test to diagnose autism. A formal evaluation may consist of observing the child and talking to you about how the child?s social skills, language skills and behavior have developed and changed over time. Your child may need to undergo a number of developmental tests covering speech, language and psychological issues.

Signs of autism may appear by 18 months of age; however, the diagnosis of autism may not be made until age 2 or 3 when there are more obvious delays in language development. Early diagnosis is important because early intervention, preferably before age 3, seems to be associated with the best chance for significant improvement.

Treatment for autism includes:

?Behavioral and communication therapies
?Drug therapies: Right now there are no medications that directly improve the signs of autism. Some medications can help control the symptoms of hyperactivity, repetitive and aggressive behaviors.
?Complementary approaches: Art therapy, music therapy, special diets, vitamin and mineral supplements and sensory integration that focus on reducing a child?s hypersensitivity to touch or sound. There is no specific proof these therapies work. Always discuss with your child?s doctor before trying any of the complementary approaches.

Children with autism do not outgrow the disorder. They often respond well to highly structured education programs. A child with autism can learn to function within the confines of the disorder especially if treatment begins early.

Review the following tips to help you cope with raising a child who has autism:

?Find a team of trusted professionals
?Take time for yourself and other family members
?Seek out other families of autistic children
?Learn about the disorder

Source: Mayo Clinic

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use the information in this article to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child?s condition.

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Written by: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.about-autism.info for more information about autism.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Role Of The Individualized Education Program Team

                

 

The fastest growing diagnosis within the disability of Pervasive Developmental Disorders is Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder are from all socioeconomic groups, as well as cultural, racial, and ethnic populations. More students with Autism Spectrum Disorder will be found in every community and neighborhood due to the increased identification of the disorder. Estimated annual cost of educating and caring for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder is to be around 90 billion dollars according to the Autism Society of America. Early diagnosis and intervention is a key factor in reducing treatment costs by two-thirds.

There are five related developmental disorders placed under the umbrella category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders. They include:

1.Autism Spectrum Disorder
2.Asperger?s Syndrome
3.Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
4.Rett?s
5.Pervasive Developmental Disorder ? Not Otherwise Specified

Specific Aspects of Autism Spectrum Disorder

?Autism Spectrum Disorder affects the neurodevelopment system. The results are distinct learning and behavior characteristics
?Autism Spectrum Disorder has an underlying biological/genetic cause that produces organic and/or physical changes during brain development. This results in atypical cognitive and social development and behaviors
?Autism Spectrum Disorder affects individuals uniquely
?Autism Spectrum Disorder does not result from poor parenting
?Autism Spectrum Disorder affects the individual?s ability to integrate sensory information and regulate their emotions

There are five deficit areas to consider as diagnostic criteria for identifying individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, they are:

1.Communication
2.Socialization/Social skills
3.Restricted interests
4.Sensory integration
5.Behavior

Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder exhibit varying degrees of difficulties in these five areas.

Recent research shows students with Autism Spectrum Disorder exhibit the same early symptoms that include:

?Lack of eye contact
?Lack of joint attention (attention to the same item or topic as another person)
?Atypical sensory/motor processing

Goals and Objectives for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The general education teacher must ensure that students with Autism Spectrum Disorder have goals and objectives designed to promote the development of independent living, academic skills, and appropriate social behaviors and skills.

It is essential that these goals be introduced early and addressed annually in the individualized education program. If these goals are not addressed until the child reaches secondary school, there is a higher potential for many students with Autism Spectrum Disorder leaving school not able to live independently, succeed academically or be gainfully employed.

In order to help provide a smooth transition to a post-high school setting, the responsibilities of the IEP (individualized education program) team may include:

?Developing goals and short-term objectives that promote self-monitoring and independent living skills

Secondary individualized education program teams have the responsibility to identify the long-term supports these students will require for academic, economic and social independence. They must ensure students with Autism Spectrum Disorder have long-term goals that specify the need for explicit instruction in the essential social skills necessary for all post-secondary academic, social, and/or vocational settings. Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder must be given multiple opportunities in a variety of social, academic, and vocational contexts to practice these skills.

Of highest priority is ensuring that students with Autism Spectrum Disorder acquire the essential social and daily living skills they need for a responsible integration into the community.

Transition Goals and Objectives of the Individualized Education Program team may include:

?Providing students with Autism Spectrum Disorder vocational and career exploration
?Experiences to assist them with learning which careers or college majors can accommodate their uneven academic and/or social development while at the same time utilizing their unique abilities and interests
?Opportunities to acquire vocational and/or work-related behaviors and skills required for successful employment and/or educational settings

Source: The Autism Society of America

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Written by: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.about-autism.info for more information about Autism Spectrum Disorder

How To Recognize The Different Autism Types

                

 

You may hear autism referred to as a PDD. This stands for Pervasive Development Disorder, and is a blanket term for the many different autism types.

When talking about autism most people think of an autistic child in the classic sense, but that is only one of the types that are used to diagnose children with this condition in today?s world.

Though the film Rainman is probably the most well-known source that most people base their understanding on, there is more to this condition than what was depicted in the movie. Some children are very similar to Dustin Hoffman?s character, but there are many more different autism types and levels of function known today.

The Rainman type of autism, or classic autism, is otherwise known as Kanner?s, and was named for the doctor who studied it in the 30s and 40s. This is a lower functioning type of autism characterized by severe communication and socialization problems. These children are hard to reach, and do not interact with most people. They can be clumsy due to poor motor skills, and are prone to repetitive motions and actions. They might have tantrums when the smallest changes in their environment or schedule are made. Some do not speak, and others speak on a limited basis.

Rett?s Syndrome is also one of the lower-functioning types of autism. This happens in girls only for some reason, and is often paired with mental retardation. These girls are greatly impaired when it comes to movements, and they rarely speak. This autism type has been classified as a genetic defect. There seems to be no explanation as to why it only affects girls. All other types are attributed to males 75% of the time.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder is something that is very shocking for parents, perhaps even more so than children who are identified early with Rett?s or Kanner?s. This is something that happens after a child has appeared to develop quite normally. They have the usual range of speech and motor skills for their peer group. Then at some point, usually between ages two and four, they regress into a severe form of autistic disability. No one is sure why this happens though some believe surgery or illness can bring it on. That is not true for all of these children, however, so nothing concrete has been proven.

The higher functioning form of autism is known as Asperger?s. These children can often be misdiagnosed in the early years. They have better communication and socialization skills, but they are still somewhat limited. However, many of these children aren?t diagnosed until they are in school when the difference their peers and themselves become more apparent. They often respond well to behavioral treatments, and can have a very ?normal? life if they are put through these programs and therapies at the earliest possible age.

There is another type of autism called PDD-NOS. This is when a child is thought to have autism, but their condition does not seem to be associated with the other four more definite types. They have autism, but they seem to fall out of each category. They may have symptoms or behaviors that fall within all of the other different autism types, but do not fit one type exclusively.

Most children with any of these five autism types will be diagnosed before the age of five, and the prognosis will depend on the function of the child, and how early they can begin to go through therapies.

There is no cure for autism, and because the reasons why some children develop this condition are so unclear, there is no way parents can prevent it from happening. More research is needed to find the origins of the condition. Once that can be found, perhaps a cure or more effective treatments can be administered, tailored to the different types of autism.

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Did You Know These Facts About Autism?

                

 

There have been many conditions thought history that have been mistaken for something else, and before the human mind was understood, many with mental disabilities were placed in jail. They were deemed a threat and were then heavily medicated. Today, we have a greater understanding of what some people go through, and although different from everyone else, we know there is an underlying reason for it. We know do our best to help people like this instead of persecuting them. When looking back through the history of autism, it is obvious that though it was given a name in the early part of the 1900s, it was largely misunderstood by people for a long time.

Some believe that autism was first noticed as a condition around 1911, but it wasn?t really anything other than a theory at that time. A Swiss psychiatrist by the name of Eugen Bleuler is thought to be the first to use the term. The word ?autism? meant ?an escape from reality? and was based on behaviors he observed in adults and it was attributed to schizophrenia. Though that was false and misleading, it was a step closer to putting a name to a condition that was largely misunderstood.

New information was found from one of the earliest recorded studies of children with autism. From 1938 to the year 1943, a doctor by the name of Leo Kanner studied the behaviors of eleven autistic children. The children he chose to study were ones that seem to withdraw from interaction with others as early as age one. The type of autism that he recorded and named was what would be considered ?classic autism? and is often referred to as Kanner?s Syndrome.

These children were thought to have different characteristics than those classified as mentally retarded. However, at this time it was still largely misunderstood. Some believed parents were to blame, and these children were often removed from the home and placed with others to see if they would ?recover.?

It wasn?t until the 1960s when the disorder was finally being studied and understood for what it really is and the impacts it has on a person. The finger pointing at parents of autistic children reduced as understanding grew, but there was and still is in some cases a lot of misinformation about autism, and many parents feel the need to defend themselves, as if they?ve ?done something? to their child.

Higher functioning autistic children and adults are often said to have Asperger?s. This condition was documented by Hans Asperger in 1944, but was not something that gained wider awareness until later in the 1980s. He described this condition as ?autistic psychopaths? and some of the blame was put on the mothers of these children, claiming that they were cold and heartless. Though we know today that this is not true, it was widely accepted at the time.

Since then, PDD (pervasive development disorder) has been studied and is now more understood. PDD is a blanket term for the spectrum of autistic disorders that are now known today.

The history of autism is a rough one, but that can be said about many of the conditions that affect the mind and the personality. Though more understanding exists today, there is much that is still misunderstood.

Perhaps the most important thing is that parents are no longer blamed for the conditions of autism, and that more treatments are available to help a child with this condition. Recently thinking suggests Autism is an auto-immune condition, and that it can be genetic. There is no cure, but there are programs that can increase communication and socialization skills in some children and adults.

Hopefully by understanding the history of autism we can take steps to progress treatment programs further.

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The Role Of An Autism Support Group

                

 

Having an autistic child or dependent adult is very draining on both caregivers and relatives. Knowing how to advocate and care for you your loved ones, while increasing general awareness, and caring for yourself are essential day to day necessities that require your immediate attention. the best resource to help you cope with an autistic child or dependent adult is an autism support group. These groups bring together professionals that are experts in the field of autism and those who interact with autism on a day to day basis. Together they use this forum to swap ideas, and encourage, and educate each other. An autism support group to be effective must play five critical roles on a day to day basis.

Partnership and Comprehensive Support

An autism support group must help bring people together and aid in the formation of partnerships to encourage interaction and growth between all involved. This support will provide a foundation upon which the groups members will grow and participate in the educational opportunities that are available and help match the needs of the autistic dependents with the needs of their families and caregivers. The support group should also provide Comprehensive support that is directed towards the objective that all autistic dependents receive a complete or traditional education designed specifically to the needs of the autistic.

Positive and Educational Support

Another major function of an autism support group is to offer positive support to the autistic child, and their caregivers by providing an atmosphere of encouragement and a safe environment to vent and express one?s emotions without fear of reprisal or judgment. This positive support will help break down barriers, and allow positive accomplishments to flourish and be recognized.

All the positive support in the world will accomplish nothing without building a solid foundation for education and the support group must promote educational programs to increase the knowledge of its members and prepare them with the information needed to be able to care for and support their loved ones. As an educational resource the support group becomes tasked with the responsibility for disseminating information about the disability, its symptoms, and treatments, and to provide support for the family's with autistic dependents.

Advocacy

The final and most critical function of an autism support group is their role as an advocate to protect and educate those that do not understand autism and often neglect the needs of the autistic patients as a result. An autism support group must represent the autistic community and push for the needs of the autistic community at large..

Kerry Ng is a successful Webmaster and publisher of The Autism Info Blog. Click here for more helpful information on Autism: http://www.autisminfoblog.com/autism-books-are-a-tool

Autism Behavior

                

 

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The Ongoing Mercury Contamination And Autism Debate

                

 

Classic autism was first studied and documented in the 1930s and 40s. Since then, ongoing research has yet to pinpoint an exact cause or cure. Some wonder if our lifestyle has something to do with the high numbers of children who are being diagnosed with one form or another of this condition each year. Is it just better diagnostics leading to the increased number of cases, or is something else might be the problem. There are many theories, though none have been proven. One theory suggests that mercury contamination and autism are closely tied together.

Though mercury can come from many places, the main problem seems to be the regular vaccinations that are commonly given in childhood. These shots are required for most children to enter school, and protect against diseases that were once dangerous. These life threatening disease are almost nonexistent now thanks to those vaccinations.

However, it?s not the vaccine that has people worried, but rather a preservative called Thimerosal that is used in some of them. Some vaccinations come in larger bottles which contain more than one dose. This preservative is used to keep the vaccine free from contaminants. The problem with Thimerosal is that is one half mercury in content.

Most people know that mercury can be toxic. The link that some make with this and autism is constantly questioned. Some recent research on autism links weakened immune system ?biomarker? as being present in children who are more likely to develop autism. That means they are more likely to have problems fighting off the toxins that are introduced into the body.

Autism is considered an autoimmune condition, so in a way, this makes a lot of sense. It is said that the majority of children are not bothered by the mercury content in Thimerosal, but a child with that particular biomarker will have problems removing it from their system. It is important to remember that vaccinations are not the only way mercury can get into the body. Studies suggest we all get a little each day from varying sources.

While studies seem to suggest that mercury has no tie to autism, there are some who are not convinced. Some parents are refusing to vaccinate their children, and though this will eliminate that source of mercury, they are putting their children?s health at risk. If you skip the shots, not only are your children vulnerable to the diseases they are designed to stop, you can?t say they won?t get the toxins elsewhere and develop autism anyway. It is a hard choice for a parent to make. There are mercury-free vaccinations on the market for each type of shot, but there might still be a trace of this mercury in there anyway.

It?s understandable that many parents would be concerned. Anyone can ask a pediatrician for mercury-free vaccinations. If this is something a parent feels strongly about, there is no reason why they can?t have them. If you look into the dangers associated with mercury, it is very understandable why many would be upset and would ask for these. Though most children can tolerate the regular vaccines with no issues, there is no way for parents to know this ahead of time as of yet.

Whether mercury contamination and autism are related is still unknown for the most part, some don?t want to wait around to find out. Questioning this is very understandable. Talk to your doctor about your concerns if you want mercury-free shots.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about autism and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Understanding The Pdd Autism Link

                

 

Autism comes under the PDD (pervasive development disorders) umbrella For the longest time, kids who had PDD slipped under the radar and did not get the correct diagnosis, instead they were given labels by others who did not understand them. They were called shy, weird, or just ?different?. These problems, as it turned out, are related to PDD autism. Though classic autism was diagnosed long ago, there are high-functioning forms that are now just being understood and diagnosed. These are the children that were often misunderstood and teased. Research and understanding now allows these children enjoy a more ?normal? way of life.

The word normal is something that should be used carefully however. What is normal for one child is not for another. There seems to be a standard range of accepted behavior and development though, and those with PDD often fall outside those ranges in some areas.

Many with PDD can blend in, but they are often singled out eventually. Many of them say that PDD makes them who they are, and they would not change that for the world. However, because they want to interact with others who do not have autism, they do have to learn to adapt. There are programs now that are designed just to help these children with the social and communication problems they often have.

Almost every child with a PDD has communication issues. Some have no vocabulary, and some have a very extensive one. Some never utter a word, but instead, choose to communicate through hand motions. There are many problems, even for those with large vocabularies. Though they know the words to use, they often use them in the wrong context, or use them in the literal sense only, which can lead to misunderstandings on both sides of the conversation. Just think about the everyday expressions like ?raining cats and dogs? or ?going hell for leather? ? pretty confusing if taken literally.

Social settings can be huge problems for children and adults with PDD autism. Many want to interact with their peers just like everyone else, but it can be very painful for them. They lack the skills needed for this type of friendship. There are times when they say the wrong things, and they can have a problem with maintaining eye contact. Failed attempts at socialization can become frustrating and they may choose to retreat into their own world where they are safe from disappointments. Many think they want to be alone, but this usually comes after they have tried to relate to others and fail. Once they fail, they feel safer on their own, and begin to develop a preference for that.

In most cases, children will be diagnosed with PDD autism by the ages of three or four. Though this is not true in all cases, a majority will know before they reach school age.

Other than social and communication problem, there are other common PDD signs. These can include repeated motions, and a tendency towards having tantrums for small things like a shift in routine. There can be aggressive behavior is some, and that is usually due to failed attempts to communicate feelings or messages. Some are overly sensitive to noise and other stimuli, and others seem to be unaware of things going on around them. No two children will exhibit the same symptoms. It is thought that early diagnosis is best, and can lead to a better life all the way around for those with PDD autism.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about autism and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Understanding Glyconutrients Autism Treatment

                

 

Though there has yet to be a cure found for autism, there are studies ongoing in hopes of finding the root of the problem. There are many theories about why this happens to some children, and also why the numbers of those being diagnosed are so high. At the moment they are just theories. One such theory looks utilizing a glyconutrients autism treatment.

There is a body of thought that purports that when a child is not getting enough glyconutrients autism might be one of the possible results.

If you don?t know what glyconutrients are, you can think of them as the same things as what others refer to as the sugars in your body. You get these from foods that you eat. Glyconutrients keep the body moving, and they also aid in keeping the immune system running in tip-top form to protect the body. Because autism is considered to be an autoimmune condition, this leads some to believe that a lack of these glyconutrients might contribute to a child developing autism.

There are those who believe that almost 75% of all disease and other medical conditions are a result of the ?free radicals? that invade our bodies each day. These can be anything that is not normally found in the body, and that the body has to work to get rid of as soon as possible. Free radicals are formed from inhaling smoke, from the preservatives in foods and drinks, and other types of toxins. We are bombarded with these each day. If the immune system is impaired, it cannot process these free radicals quickly enough and they start to build up, which can lead to illness.

There are some that believe that glyconutrients should be supplemented in some children, as they may not be getting the level of nutrients required from the foods that they eat. Children are notorious for being picky about what they will eat. Supplements would then allow the immune system to work better, and the toxins would be easily flushed from the body. Though no one can say that this might stop autism from occurring, some believe it might help with some of the problems of a child who has already been diagnosed. Some parents who have supplemented with glyconutrients claim that this had made a huge difference, and yet others report no such difference in behavior.

There has yet to be any scientific research that points to glyconutrients being a huge help for those with autism just yet. There are many great things that can come from supplementing glyconutrients. However, autism may not may not respond to it, but there are studies that are ongoing.

However, if you believe that glyconutrients autism treatment is right for your child, you should never attempt to do this on your own. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons first, and if you do decide to do it, you should make sure your doctor knows what is going on, and that you allow them to evaluate as they see fit. It is not wise to start a supplement program without medical supervision.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about autism and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Top 5 Common Symtoms Of Autism In Children

                

 

There are more and more children being diagnosed with autism today. There are new forms of higher functioning autistics being diagnosed, and that leads to higher numbers. Many times children were labeled as being shy or painfully introverted when they really had autism. Though the lower functioning and more common form of autism are easily spotted, those with Asperger?s were often missed or dismissed. Parents that know more about the different symtoms of autism in children will have an easier time recognizing if their child needs further evaluation.

Social Relating: There is a common thread that seems to connect all children with any form of autism. These children have problems relating with others, and in particular, have problems with their peers. They struggle to relate, and they have huge anxiety when trying to form or keep relationships. This causes large amounts of frustration, and many end up alone, avoiding those feelings. They can?t really relate to many things emotionally, though that is different for higher functioning children. In many cases, group activities are just too much for them.

Communication: Some with autism never develop any type of verbal communication. There are others who begin to talk, but then regress. Higher functioning children can have a great vocabulary, but are limited in how they choose to share it. Many of them choose to use gestures rather than talk at all. Those who have some skill might latch on to phrases that they hear and repeat them over and over.

Reaction to Stimulus: Another symptom of autism in children that parents often notice early is that they seem to have exaggerated reactions to many things, or that they have no reaction at all. Many respond to things in the most inappropriate manner. They may cover their ears at tiny sounds, or they may not even blink if a horn were to go off nearby. Some have problems with touch, and seem overly sensitive when touched by others. They may seem like they are in pain from a slight brush of the hand or a simple hug. Others can react violently to bright lights maintaining eye contact can be difficult.

Unusual Behavior: There are many different types of problems that appear in autism. Behaviors are often over-the-top and out of whack with others of the same age. They have a tendency to over-react to things and have tantrums at the slightest variation in schedule. They might be misdiagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder before the proper diagnosis is found. Repetitive motions and actions are also quite common.

At Play: There is some play involved for some children with autism, but some do not play at all, at least, not in the traditional way. Many who do play will play on their own most of the time. They often feel great frustration and anxiety when they are expected to play in a group or with one other child. When they play on their own, it is marked by the repetition of the same motions or action. They appear to be in their own world while at play, and may ignore everything exclusive of the thing they are doing.

Many of the symtoms of autism in children are obvious right away, but they can remain hidden. Some function very well, and these things might not come to light until they are in school or pre-school. When a parent thinks there might be something wrong, they should look for evaluation. No matter what the diagnosis might be, it is smart to remember that some mistakes are made, and some children are said to have autism when they don?t, or that they don?t when they do. If the diagnosis seems wrong, consult with another doctor when there is a change in symptoms.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about aspergers and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism.

Can Adults Be Diagnosed With Autism Later In Life?

                

 

Autism has been around for many years as specific condition but hasn?t always well understood by the medical community and for some people their condition has been misdiagnosed. Though the classic form of autism is something that is often quite obvious in a child, there are high functioning autism types like Asperger?s that can be thought to be something else entirely. This form is just now being understood, and many who have had it their whole lives are just now learning that this is the case. It seems to make the answer to the questions pertaining to can adults be diagnosed with autism rather simple.

Adults can most certainly be diagnosed with autism. It can be a tough journey though, as many doctors don?t like the Asperger?s condition, and think it is highly blown out of proportion. Others just don?t have the knowledge to accurately diagnose children and adults with higher functioning forms of autism. So, it was something that went unnoticed for a very long time. Most parents and doctors assumed the child was different or ?shy? but that was all the further thought that was put into the situation. These children are now adults and starting to question those assumptions.

This form of high functioning autism has gone undetected, and many adults tend to blend rather well, which is something that those with classic autism cannot do. Though the high functioning adults have jobs and lives, and are intelligent, they can be socially awkward, as it is something that doesn?t come easily for most.

They may have communication problems that cause friction at work and in personal relationships, and they are frustrated because they don?t know why these sorts of interactions don?t come as easily to them as to others. Some people are even wrongly told that they have conditions like Obsessive Compulsive disorder. Because of frustration and anxiety regarding socialization, many have become often loners.

There are other clues that an adult might have autism. Their social awkwardness comes in different degrees. Many cannot understand humor, and are very literal in their interpretation of figures of speech. They cannot understand when someone is teasing them, as they take all words at the most literal level. They may have nervous twitches when anxious, and they also tend to have motor impairment. They can get upset and anxious quite easily, and quite often.

Anyone who suspects that they, or someone they know, has these problems and who wants to know can an adult be diagnosed with autism, it is a good idea to go in to see a doctor for evaluation. Sometimes you might have a hard time finding a doctor to take your concerns seriously, but that just means you have to keep looking.

Though there is no cure, a diagnosis can help a patient feel less anxious about why they are different, and they can also take advantage of some programs that can help improve the quality of their life. There are some tests online that may answer the question of can adults be diagnosed with autism. You can take the tests to see if you fit the profile, and then share this information with your doctor if you wish. This might help a physician understand what is going on and how to best help.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about aspergers and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Understanding Autism Statistics

                

 

It would seem there are more alarming autism statistics each year. These are often hard to comprehend, and can be very misleading if you don?t understand what you are reading. Autism is a blanket term for quite a few different conditions that are all related, yet vary in degree of function.

Asperger?s is a relatively new term that covers a wide range of higher functioning children and adults. This is something that is relatively new, and people are now just getting the proper diagnosis. Though it would seem that the numbers of those with autism is rising almost out of control, it may be that diagnosis has been wrong in the past, and it is now easier to make the proper one.

If you go by the number presented in 2007 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 150 births will result in autistic children. This number seems scary, but the actually cases are probably about the same as before, but many others just were not known or could not be diagnosed. Some of these children had never been seen by a doctor, and many grew into adulthood with a different but wrong diagnosis. They may have been living with autism, but they were thought of as introverted, troubled or disruptive.

If you go back to the findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2001, it was estimated that about 1.5 million children and adults are living with autism. The statistics from that year in comparison to this year would leave you to believe that the cases of this condition are rising by 15%. That seems alarming, but it might show in increase in proper diagnosis rather than an increase in overall cases. More and more children are now being diagnosed with autism when they would have normally been left to fall through the cracks and suffer needlessly.

There is some good news, even though the numbers seem to be very troubling. It would seem that an early and proper diagnosis might help avoid some of the costs of raising and caring for a child with autism. Most of the extra costs are ones that occur in adulthood, with some people requiring care for their entire lives.

When a child is diagnosed early, they can go through programs designed to help them communicate and socialize with others more effectively. This lessens the costs associated with caring for them when they reach adulthood in most cases. Though many children with autism are unlikely to fully integrate into society, some manage their condition well and go on to have pretty normal interactions and jobs when they reach adulthood.

The rise in Autism statistics can not be attributed to bad parenting nor is it something a person can ever leave behind, but through the proper support and intervention they can lead happy and fulfilled lives.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about aspergers and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Five Autism Types Explained

                

 

Autism used to be the term used for anyone with that particular condition. Today, there are several different sub categories for different levels of disability or function. No two children diagnosed will be the same, but there will be many things that they do have in common. With some high functioning autistics most people may not even be aware that they have autism, while others need assistance in almost any part of life, and they are obviously living a very different life than other children. More is being discovered about each of these different autism types as time goes on.

Asperger?s Disorder

This type of autism is something that you hear more and more about. These children are often misdiagnosed at first, and are thought to have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or perhaps Attention Deficit Disorder. These children are very unskilled with social interactions and have problems with communicating. They have repetitive motions, and are fixated on patterns of all types. They can have above average language skills, though they don?t use them well in social situations. They are often clumsy, as motor skills are under developed. Those with Asperger?s are thought to have a talent that they focus on almost exclusively, and are considered to be highly intelligent. Recent findings indicate that Albert Einstein may have had this condition.

Kanner?s Syndrome (classic autistic disorder)

This particular type of autism was named after a Dr. Kanner. He described and studied it in the 1930s and into the 1940s. This is the well-known type of this condition that is very common. Those with Kanner?s have very limited emotional connection with anyone, and they are very into their own little world. They want everything to be the same all of the time, and this includes routine (sometimes down to the exact minute) clothing, food, and television shows or movies. They can be deeply effected by noises, bright lights and smells. They are generally considered to be low functioning, but how well their mind works is largely unknown because of extremely poor social and communication skills.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder--Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).

This term is used to describe children who have most of the same symptoms as classic autism. They will need the same interventions and help that autistic children require. The differences between PDD-NOS and autism are minor and usually only obvious to researchers and doctors.

Rett?s Syndrome

Rett?s is a rare and relatively little-known type of autism, and it seems to only happen in girls. This branch of autism was first described by Dr. Rett. These patients often have problems with muscle atrophy, and tend to do repetitive hand motions. They area almost always mentally retarded to some degree. These girls are very low functioning and will need care for most of their lives. This particular type of autism has been diagnosed since the sixties, but in the late 1990s a gene that might cause this condition was found.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

This is also thankfully pretty rare and something that strikes children who appear to have normal development from birth. Usually between two and four years of age this changes. These children begin to regress, and often do not potty train. They will lose the will and the ability to interact with other children, and will lose an interested in play. They will also have problem with the motor skills that were something they at one time had mastered. They will stop talking, or their communication skills will regress to some degree.

Though there are more autism types out there, these tend to be the most common. They are all things that take parents by surprise, and each comes with their own set of difficulties. Most children will need to be cared for long after their peers have established independence, even though the will to be on their own is very strong.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about autistic and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Understanding Autism And Anxiety On Socialization

                

 

There are many things about autistic children that people generally do not understand, and there are also times when the parents are just as baffled as everyone else. There is a lot of information out there about autistic children, but much of it is conflicting. It?s hard to know what to believe and what pertains to an individual child. Parents naturally want what is best for their children, and they cannot stand to think that their children might be suffering. There can be huge problems with autism and anxiety on socialization for many families.

For a long time, children with autism have been misunderstood on one very essential point. It was long believed that autistic children did not have any desire to mingle with their peers. Parents would feel guilty about attempting socialization because they sensed the deep frustration and anxiety in their children. Trying to force children to play with other kids their age can be an exercise in torture for many autistic children.

Most children with this condition lack the basic skills they need to relate to their peers. They aren?t good at making or holding eye contact, they tend to center any conversations around themselves or on a narrow topic that interests them, and often have a hard time speaking to someone at all. Other children don?t ?get? them and most are not interested in trying to develop the relationship further.

Most parents were told for a long time that their children did not seek out this type of peer interaction. They were told their children would rather be alone, and that pushing them to socialize was harming them. Studies have proven this to be wrong. Many of these children do crave peer interaction, but they simply don?t have the tools to do it. This leads to mounting frustration and anxiety issues for both the child and that child?s parents.

Many autistic children show signs of wanting to stay away from peer socialization, and remain in the company of adults that they trust, or to be by themselves. This is not necessarily their wish, but because they have such a hard time with interactions, and the anxiety is so overwhelming, they withdrawal into their own place where everything is less stressful and right again.

They want to interaction, but it is often so painful they give up on it rather quickly. A child who is shoved into this type of social setting without preparation can suffer huge amounts of frustration, and the anxiety will be overwhelming. Knowing how to proceed with socialization is not something a parent knows instinctively. Even when they seek help, sometimes answers are just not there.

Because there is such a wide range of different problems for children with autism, they must each be treated and handled differently when it comes to socialization.

There are great programs that can help, but each does have its own set of drawbacks. There are special educational classes, but there are negatives to these and some parents don?t want to use them. Some can be in the regular classroom, but they are often singled out as ?different? and this can be very difficult for parent and child.

A proper evaluation and plan of action is essential when it comes to addressing the issues caused by autism and anxiety on socialization. Usually it comes down to a trial and error scenario before you find a method that suits your child and you. Re-adjustments might always be something that is necessary as time goes on.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter about autistic and discover more on the signs and symptoms of autism

Autism Therapy ? An Endless Job

                

 

Unfortunately autism at this point has no known cure and very little is known about the specific causes of this condition. Diagnosing this disorder is not easy either as often the visible signs of this condition are assumed to be ?bad-behavior? and behavior management programs are prescribed instead. One thing does seem to be certain and that is that autism therapy, started early enough does seem to help correct and at least control the condition and give the affected individual the best chance at living and integrating normally in the very often harsh day to day world we live in!

Tough on Parents

There is nothing tougher on a parent then learning that their child is autistic. The parent has to realize there is no cure and that life for their child may in fact be very difficult. The key is starting therapy as soon as possible and parents must realize that anything less can substantially worsen the odds for their child to be ale to integrate into the real world. Autism therapy consists of a series of exercises that are designed to take the child out of their own private world and bring them into the real world. Unfortunately as many parents of autistic children have learned this therapy is not always 100% successful. Once the child has a closed door and shut out the world it is often impossible to reach them and reopen it.

Since autistic children tend to isolate themselves from their environment, it is tough to teach them as they loose focus and stop observing. The most important tool for learning is the power to observe and autism therapy is designed to work around this problem and help the child learn despite this tenancy. there are different approaches that are used to accomplish this and progress is often very slow.

There is Hope

The good news is that there have been documented cases where autism therapy was started early and the children made huge advances and became able to integrate and function in the real world. It is these cases that provide hope for those that are struggling with autism. Unfortunately it is very expensive to educate an autistic child and resources are limited. The parents and their autistic dependants must fight an often difficult battle to help their loved ones survive and hopefully prosper despite their affliction. Home schooling seems to be the path most taken since government facilities are few and far between. Looking after their dependents is hard enough without having to fight the system to get what is needed. Still the hope that the child or dependent shines on with the promise of a possible cure sometime in the future.

Kerry Ng is a successful Webmaster and publisher of The Autism Info Blog. Click here for more helpful information on Autism: http://www.autisminfoblog.com

Art Therapy For High Functioning Autism How To Get Started

                

 

People who have high functioning autism can be taught at an early age to express themselves through different forms of therapy. In order to lead relatively normal lives, a high functioning autistic requires a certain level of social skills. The development of these skills can be accomplished through a number of therapies including play therapy, social skilled classes or groups, psychotherapy, social stories and expressive therapies.

One expressive therapy that has proven to be quite beneficial is art therapy. Art therapy can help an autistic develop social response by allowing them to express their emotions through art. This form of complimentary therapy may be an ideal way for an autistic to develop social skills.

What is art therapy? It is a therapy that involves using a number of various art materials such as paints, batik (a way to dye fabric), clay, etc. as a method of expressing thoughts or feelings through visual representation. Art therapy is based on psychological research and theory that art is naturally therapeutic. This therapy takes into account the behaviors, thoughts and feelings experienced by those with high functioning autism and other disorders.

Art therapy allows an individual to explore various issues including those that involve family, relationships, life change, loss, abuse and overall development. It may be carried out as a group process or individual counsel. The artwork that is created during therapy may be of spontaneous creations or based on suggestion provided by a therapist.

What are the benefits of art therapy? Art therapy has many benefits, especially for an autistic because it doesn?t rely on verbal or language skills, is a fun activity, and does not require any art skill or experience. The following is a list of other benefits -

?Increases self awareness
?Develops social skills
?Changes behaviors
?Develops problem solving strategies
?Allows an individual to engage in creative thinking in a safe environment
?Allows an individual to focus solely on the activity at hand and shut out other thoughts that may be intrusive.

Keep in mind that all of the above positive outcomes of art therapy may not be experienced by someone with high functioning autism. Remember, not every autistic functions the same.

Where can I find and art therapist and what should I look for? If an individual with high functioning autism is interested in art therapy, an art therapist will need to be sought out. An art therapist can practice in a number of environments, but can usually be found in psychiatric or general hospitals. They may work in oncology or geriatric wards, schools, rehabilitation centers, and counseling centers. The best way for you to find an art therapist locally, is to speak to your child?s health care provider or call your hospital.

When choosing a therapist, keep the following in mind:

?Find out about their education background and where they received training
?Find out if they have previous experience with high functioning autism patients
?Ask what types of therapeutic approach do they use
?Ask what to expect during a lesson

Grab your free copy of Rachel Evans' brand new Autism Newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you and your family find out about autism characteristics

Adult Autism Does Not Have To Hurt Your Relationship

                

 

Those who have been diagnosed with high functioning adult autism have the opportunity to live relatively normal lives. This includes having a job, being in a relationship and even starting a family. However, developing an intimate relationship with another person can still be a difficult process for a high functioning autistic, though certainly not impossible.

The following are 10 tips on how to manage adult autism and have a healthy, strong relationship.

1. Don?t rush into anything ? Developing an intimate relationship with a person is often a slow-going and temperamental process, regardless if one is autistic or not. Therefore, although you may find it difficult to begin dating, remember that you need to start somewhere, and the more practice you have at this form of social interaction the easier it will become.

2. Educate yourself on social interaction ? Television, movies and books are ideal ways for autistic children and those with adult autism to learn about adult social interaction in intimate relationships. T.V. shows, movies or books that depict emotions are excellent choices. Although these adult themed books and shows may be trivial, they are still educational and can help a high functioning autistic better understand social interaction

3. Control Compulsiveness ? Autistics tend to resort to compulsive behavior when faced with a social situation that is new or lacks certainty such as dating or meeting someone for the first time. Compulsive behavior is a huge turn-off, because your date may feel they are pressured or intimidated by your sense of urgency. This overwhelming feeling can make a person lose interest fast.

4. Physical appearance ? Although you may have heard that appearance doesn?t matter when it comes to starting a relationship, think again. It?s important to like someone?s personality, but you also need to be physically attracted to them. Therefore, regardless if you are dating a non-autistic or an individual with adult autism, keep yourself well dressed, groomed and healthy.

5. Avoid social blunders ? Make sure you are aware of what is considered appropriate and inappropriate to say on first dates to avoid social blunders. For instance, you should avoid sensitive subjects such as sex, past relationships, religion, personal problems, money and other personal matters that can have negative repercussions.

Instead, try to make you conversation as casual as possible by focusing on personal topics of interests. This doesn?t mean only talking about what you like, but also what the other person enjoys. Try finding a topic you?re both interested in. If the other person brings up a conversation you don?t feel comfortable with, simply tell them you don?t feel like discussing it at this time.

6. Know your intimacy comfort level ? Don?t be afraid to say ?no? to a level of intimacy you are not comfortable with, and don?t push your partner if he/she is not ready either. You should both be comfortable with your intimacy and be able to discuss it openly before engaging in anything serious.

7. Confide in someone you trust ? If you have questions about dating or your relationship, it may be a good idea to address your questions and concerns with a close friend and/or someone you trust, whether they have adult autism or not. Just make sure you can completely trust a person and value their opinion before you confide in them.

8. Protect yourself ? You need to protect yourself when dating. You can?t assume that the person you are meeting is a safe and trustworthy individual. They could be an abuser, user, carrying an STD or may be the nicest, honest and reliable person you could ever meet. The point is, a stranger, even if they appear friendly is still a stranger. Always keep your personal safety in mind and don?t do anything you don?t want to do.

9. Connecting online ? One of the best ways for an autistic to meet and interact with others before starting physical communication is through an online dating chat site. One of the best things about having introductions online are you can?t misread signals.

10. Don?t let rejection get you down ? Rejection can and will happen, so don?t take it personally and stop you from dating. Remember, there are plenty of other people out there, and the more people you meet and dates you experience, the better you will become with social interaction and building a meaningful adult autism relationship.

Grab your free copy of Rachel Evans' brand new Autism Newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you and your family find out about adult autism.

Why It Can Be So Difficult To Get An Autism Diagnosis

                

 

An autism diagnosis can still be difficult to obtain despite the studies that have helped people better understand autism. The reason is because there are many factors that need to be considered when making a diagnosis.

First of all, there is more than one type of autism disorder and there are other disabilities that are closely related to autism such as Asperger?s Syndrome and Pervasive Development Disorder- Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Second, autism is particularly difficult to diagnose in young children, due to the fact that they are still developing speech and reasoning skills.

Therefore, since an autism diagnosis can be a challenge, as a parent, it is essential that you have your child?s development, social and communication skills properly evaluated and accessed by a doctor.

How is autism diagnosed? Usually an autism diagnosis is made when a person shows signs of 6 or more of 12 specific symptoms characteristic of the disorder. The 12 main symptoms are focused in three primary areas ?

1. Social interaction ? Autistics generally have little interest in others and pay little or no attention to those who may be present in the room with them, regardless of their age. They do not seek comfort if they are troubled or hurt and prefer to be on their own. On the other hand, autistics that do show an interest in social interaction have difficulty initiating contact with others and developing friendships. It is also common for an autistic to avoid eye contact.

2. Behavior ? Most autistics find change and new situations to be incredibly stressful. In addition, they tend to develop unusual rituals or routines and repetitious physical gestures such as rocking back and forth, flapping the hands, etc.

3. Communication ? It is estimated that 50% of those diagnosed with autism are unable to develop speech, and those who do cannot engage in long conversations unless they are based on extremely specific topics insisted upon by the autistic. Autistics often tend to echo words or phrases and have difficulty with pitch and changing the inflection of their tone.

There should be at least 2 symptoms present from social interaction, and at least one symptom from both behavior and communication for an autism diagnosis to be made. Hence, if a person exhibits some of the symptoms, but does not meet the criteria for an autism disorder, they may then be diagnosed with another similar disability such as Asperger?s syndrome or PDD-NOS.

The following are 5 tips parents can keep in mind when talking with a health care provider to ensure their child receives a proper evaluation:

1. Find out everything there is to known about autism ? In order to talk to doctors and receive the most effective evaluation of your child, you need to educate yourself about autism and know what to ask. You should never seek an autism diagnosis if you have no idea what the condition is all about. This will make it easier for a doctor to generate a wrong diagnosis.

2. Analyze your child?s behaviour ? Based on the information regarding social interaction, behaviour and communication above, carefully analyze and make note of your child?s behaviour in a journal. Study how your child interacts with others and present your findings to the doctor.

3. Find a health care professional who is experienced with autism diagnosis ? It is important to find someone who has had experience in autism diagnosis. You should not rely on the advice or diagnosis of a doctor who is not specialized in this field. The best way to find a doctor is to locate a local support group and find out what doctors other parents take their autistic children to.

4. Ask questions ? Asking and answering questions is part of effective evaluation. The more information you obtain and the more detailed answers you can provide your doctor about your child?s behaviour helps assist in diagnosis.

5. Get a second opinion ? If you don?t agree with a doctor?s opinion or want more assurance, don?t be afraid to question the doctor?s diagnosis or treatment recommendations, and seek the advice of another health care provider. Doctors are human beings, and can be wrong. Consulting with other doctors is not a bad idea.

Keep in mind that evaluation and assessment is not a fast process and is ongoing, even after an autism diagnosis is determined.

By Rachel Evans - For more information on how to go about getting an autism diagnosis sign up for a free newsletter

Autism: The Range Of Function

                

 

Autism is a syndrome that comes from exhibiting certain combinations or patterns of behavior. Low functioning autism is the term used to describe autistic individuals that are not able to function or deal with every day life. Normal to high functioning autism is used to describe people that exhibit autistic behaviors that are in fact able to deal with real world activities and normal day to day life. Many people diagnosed with autism end up living in less then ideal conditions. Autism is a developmental disorder, that affects many areas of human function such as language, and the ability to communicate. It affects self-help skills, coordination, and the ability of an individual to learn.

Common Behaviors

There are several common traits that will aid in the diagnosis of autism. These traits include, the tendency to stay in isolation or be away from others. Autistic individuals will have a hard time making friends and will seem very awkward in social situations. An autistic person will very rarely look some else in the eye. They will be very naive and easily swayed or manipulated. They are often quite gullible. When an autistic person speaks they will often so so using very formal language. They may speak in a monotone and their use of body language may be very poor. (such as nodding "no" while saying "yes". Autistic people will generally prefer common routines, they may be very literal in their use of language and may remember and recite a lot of detail without having a lot of understanding. They may also exhibit hyper- or hypo- sensitivity of the senses, have odd tastes in food and clothing as well as very fine or very grossly exaggerated motor coordination.

The more of the above traits an individual exhibits the more severe the case of autism is said to be. In some cases the above symptoms may become helpfully in certain disciplines like science, math, and engineering. These disciplines require a lot of memorization and many autistic's are quite proficient in these subjects as a result.

Autism and ADHD?

There has been some discussion on about a genetic as well as behavioral link between ADHD and autism. Some experts believe that ADHD should be put considered as a form of autistic spectrum disorder. It is quite common to have children diagnosed with both ADHD and autism together. In children, the two disorders seem very much alike. As the individuals age, the disorders grow and become more apparent. Children with ADHD will often develop normal social skills and be able to communicate with their peers and with others. Autistic children however will continue to show symptoms even as they age. there is still much to learn about the autism spectrum. Even with current advances in technology and medical science, a cure for this condition remains a mystery. The more we study the sooner we will understand the disorder and be able to help those who are diagnosed with this condition.

Kerry Ng is a successful Webmaster and publisher of The Autism Info Blog. Click here for more helpful information on Autism: http://www.autisminfoblog.com/

Autism Understanding Furthered By International Genetic Study

                

 

Autism understanding begins when a person realizes that autism is a disorder that affects people differently. Although autism affects the normal functioning of a person?s perception, attention and thoughts, autism is not characterized by one type of perception, attention and thought. Instead, it covers a broad spectrum of disorders that may be mild or severe. Due to the fact that autism is such a complex disorder, medical research is still in the process of understanding how it develops and why it affects certain individuals.

One particular medical project with the aim to find better autism understanding by identifying the gene that causes autism, is the 5 year Autism Genome Project (AGP). So far, phase I of the AGP has identified a gene and parts of a chromosome to be linked with the occurrence of autism. The findings of this particular autism study was published online in the Nature Genetics February 18, 2007 issue.

The Autism Genome Project is a global research consortium that is funded by Autism Speaks and the National Institute of Health. Autism Speaks is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to raising the awareness of autism and raising funds to help research it.

The AGP involves more than 120 scientists from 50 institutions in 19 countries around the world. The researchers who have collaborated on the project combined their autism expertise, and shared all of the data and samples they had to help identify autism-related genes.

As was mentioned, phase I of this project began 5 years ago in 2002, and it allowed the team of medical experts to gain autism understanding by identifying a single specific gene known as neurexil 1, and part of chromosome 11 which could likely be the cause of autism in children. These findings are based on the largest autism genome scan that has ever been done.

Scientists have known for many years that autism is a genetic disorder, but only until the AGP have they been able to use special ?gene chip? technology to search for genetic similarities in autistics. Genetic similarities were found in practically all of the autistic individuals within each of the twelve hundred families that that were made part of the project. The scientists also checked the DNA of each family to look for copy number variations that are believed might be connected to autism and similar disorders.

What the researches discovered in their study was that one particular gene known as neurexin 1 plays a significant role with glutamate; a neurotransmitter that has been formerly linked to autism. Researchers also uncovered an area of chromosome 11 that is suspected to contain a gene that may be involved in the occurrence of autism. However, this particular gene in chromosome 11 has yet to be identified which is required for further autism understanding.

Based on previous research, and the research that has been uncovered by the study so far, scientists speculate that there may be as many as 6 main genes and 30 additional genes linked to autism. However, these numbers are only theories, as scientists point out that the actual number of genes could exceed their theory. Nevertheless, despite the number of genes that may be involved, researchers admit that it is still far too early to dictate how these genes may be responsible for autism.

Currently, phase II of the Autism Genome Project has been announced. The promising discoveries found in phase I makes scientists hopeful that discovering the genes that cause autism will provide new steps toward autism understanding. With greater understanding, more effective methods of diagnosis, preventing and treating the disorder can be taken.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter and discover more about understanding autism.

Understanding Autism And Irrational Fears - 5 Ideas You Can Try Today

                

 

Part of supporting an autistic means understanding autism and helping autistics cope with their fears. An autistic may fear many things including sudden loud sounds, physical contact, the dark, strange smells, etc. In fact, many autistics fear things they have no control over. However, not every autistic person has the same fears. Therefore, you need to learn what upsets your child and find ways to help them cope.

The following are 5 common fears suffered by autistics, and how you can effectively handle the situation to create a more positive experience for your child.

1. Fear of the dentist ? Many autistic children are afraid of the dentist. This shouldn?t be too surprising, considering the dentist can be hard to take for the average person.

Understanding autism and fear of the dentist is a matter of introducing your child to the right dentist. You need to find a dentist who is experienced with children with disabilities, particularly autism. If you have trouble finding a dentist with such experience, your best option is to choose one who has compassion and a willingness to learn.

Overcoming the dentist fear is about slowly introducing your child to the environment. The first few visits should only consist of getting your child to sit in the chair and the dentist looking in his/her mouth. Furthermore, distractions such as TV can help make the process easier to take. This process can take several months.

2. Fear of the dark ? Many autistic children fear the dark because they can?t control it and fear the unknown.

To help your child overcome this fear, try a game of peek-a-boo with the blanket, allowing your child to move from dark to light at their control. Other methods that may work in understanding autism fears of the dark include providing your child with a flashlight, lamp or nightlight.

3. Fear of loud sudden noises ? Loud sudden noises such as a fire alarm or thunder, often startles and upsets autistics. Sensitivity to sound may be desensitized through sound recording. Provide your child with a recording of the sound that upsets him/her and allow them to start the sound and slowly increase its volume. Having control over the playback of sound can help the child become familiar with the noise, allowing them to recognize it when it occurs.

4. Fear of looking at people ? Many autistics don?t look directly at others. Many researchers believe this is because autistics cannot accurately interpret expressions and emotions. Thus, autistics generally find it disturbing to look at people?s faces.

New studies on understanding autism have found that autistics respond well to cartoons that feature trains and cars that have people?s faces superimposed on them. These particular cartoons known as ?The Transporters? have been particularly successful at helping autistics learn about emotions.

5. Fear of socializing ? One of the biggest autistic fears is socializing. This means that it is often difficult for them to make friends. The following are ways you can help encourage them to socialize with those their own age:

- Encourage your child to get phone numbers of some of his/her schoolmates and bring them home so you can make calls.

- Schedule a playtime or invite another family of a fellow schoolmate over to your home for brief interaction (2 hour limit)

- Don?t rely on the friendship of only one child. Invite more than one child over.

- Ask your child what he/she wants to do when the friend comes over. Create a list of activities so things remain entertaining. Just remember, you need to teach your child to be flexible and accept suggestions from others. This can take time.

The more knowledge people have in understanding autism, the easier it will be for your child to make and keep friends.

By Rachel Evans. Sign up for a free newsletter & discover how understanding autism & autism symptoms can give your child a big advantage.

A Spiritual View Of Autism

                

 

The value of a spiritual view of autism is that it enables the pain of limitation and helplessness suffered by those who experience significant impairment and those who care for them to be held within a sense of purposefulness and meaning. This can support individuals and families with a sense of truth and love, even during times of greatest challenge.

To begin with, there are many layers of understanding that relate to the phenomenon of autism, and each has to be viewed in its own right.

Within one layer are the demonstrable expressions of impaired neurological functioning that are the basis for such things as seizures, aphasias, difficulty performing routine motor tasks, nervous gestures or tics, and other anomalies of nervous system functioning.

Within another layer are the problems of thought and speech that have to do with difficulties in communication, strange thought patterns related to non-ordinary perception, difficulty forming coherent thoughts or forming thoughts whose sequence is intelligible only to the person expressing them; also patterns of thought and speech that are perseverative that have to do with brain synapse functioning and the ways in which neural energy gets released. All of these aspects of autism are also within the layer defined by physical functioning.

Within a third layer are the social and emotional aspects of autism which are often considerable and which vary in degree from person to person.

Yet, there is still another layer within which lie the reasons that autistic functioning is more prevalent today and also more widely understood. It is this:

For a long time now, humanity's brain function has emphasized the left side of the brain, once the right-brain functions went into recession thousands and thousands of years ago. This left-brain functioning has overemphasized certain aspects of the brain's capacities and eliminated or significantly reduced other capacities associated with right-brain functioning. The need of the time we are in, however, is to bring into balance right and left-brain functioning, and for this purpose, heightened neural and brain activity is needed to connect the two hemispheres. This increased activity requires an adaptation by the human organism in order to tolerate the increased charge to the neural pathways, and sometimes, when this adaptation is incomplete or limited, it is possible for the system to become overcharged or overstimulated, with subsequent problems in releasing the excess energy that is taking place on a cortical level.

This feature is often associated with a particular genetic picture or predisposition and so it is. However, it is also associated with the wider spiritual phenomenon that is occurring today which involves humanity's movement into the next level of its spiritual expression - one in which right and left-brain functioning will be more in balance and in which new capacities will emerge that will enable a wider range of mental and perceptual activities than are present today.

Many of those who are presently diagnosed as 'autistic', today, are the forerunners of this transition into a new level of brain functioning. They do not appear as such because of the limitation that autism brings to their lives on so many levels. But they have chosen to experience this limitation in order that further on in their development, they may express as more evolved and balanced beings and ones for whom more will be possible. The reason for this choice is hidden within the inner motivational pattern of each soul according to its own Divine essence and its need to manifest the truth of who it is. It is not something that can be seen from an outer perspective, or understood within any other frame of reference other than the drive of a soul to seek its own self-realization.

There are, of course, other reasons that are karmic that a soul chooses to experience limitation in this as well as in other areas of life, but the karmic purpose of limitation can also be employed in service to the larger spiritual purpose of evolving brain function and capacity.

To see those who are diagnosed as 'autistic' as forerunners of a new generation of capable souls who will emerge from these very limitations is a perception that requires a deep understanding of the sequence of lifetimes and how they contribute to and enhance one another. Without such a perspective, this context for viewing autism makes no sense. Within such a perspective, however, it may be seen that what has limitation on one side, may have advantage on the other, and that souls may have chosen to experience both the limitation and the advantage because of their desire to quicken their own spiritual development.

The problem of autism is indeed a problem for individuals, for families, and for society as a whole, with much hardship involved on a personal and familial level where the emotional and physical challenges are very great. However, as with any other physically manifesting problem, it can be considered to be an avenue of growth as well as of difficulty.

One way of looking at the problem in its present context is to find ways of supporting the positive qualities of functioning and of life that are present within autistic individuals, and to know that these are always there, no matter what outer behaviors may suggest. Such support can go a long way toward affirming the value of a lifetime in which great limitation is present. It can also acknowledge the soul within that has chosen the limitation and can accord to that soul equal dignity and equal opportunity to live to the limits of their capacity, rather than seeing the diagnosis as a detriment to life. Such a view is optimistic and supportive, and allows families and society as a whole to view the sacred life within the limitation, rather than viewing the person as the limitation, thus enabling that person to live a fuller and more fulfilled life.

For other writings by Julie Redstone see Pathways of Light ? http://lightomega.org/PathwaysofLight.html. For additional views of the soul's choice in relation to limitation, see "A Spiritual View of Depression" and other articles in the Light Omega Reader, http://lightomega.org/Articles/Ezine.html.

Finding Support For Adult Autism

                

 

Toys are a great way to stimulate autistic children, but what about adult autism? All autistics, regardless of their age or degree of autism require proper care and support. That being said, although high functioning autistics do require support, they don?t always require constant care like those who have low functioning autism.

High functioning autistics (HFA)
High functioning autistic adults can be very successful and live relatively normal lives. They can work, care, and support themselves, live independently, and in some cases, even have a family. However, in order to be successfully independent an HFA adult must have had the proper education growing up. If an HFA child is effectively taught and understands accepted behaviors and social responses, by the time they reach adulthood, they can contribute to society like everyone else.

Of course, not all high functioning autistics are independent, and even those that are may still struggle with finding suitable employment and suffer with social interaction. For this reason, those with high functioning adult autism require support to help them take care of themselves, and live the best life they can live.

Support for high functioning autistics
The following are ways in which HFA adults can find support:

Locally ? Finding support locally may be a challenge if you don?t know where to look. Nevertheless it doesn?t hurt to try searching with the help of:
- Health care providers ? Talk to any doctors or those who provided you therapy over the years. They may be able to get you in touch with local organizations or support groups.
- Government ? Call or visit the government website to learn about support for those with adult autism
- Yellow Pages ? Search the phone book to see if any support groups are listed locally
- The internet ? Conduct a search by using the name of your city and ?autism support?
Online - There are many support groups online. The following are some websites that offer support and may be helpful for employment and information:
- http://www.csaac.org
- http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger

Low functioning autistics
Low functioning adult autism means that these individuals are unable to measure up to societal standards and can not function independently, regardless of how they are educated as children. Therefore, these autistics typically live at home with their parents or in special residences where their needs can be continually addressed. Nevertheless, due to the fact that residential facilities or group homes are quite costly, many low functioning adults (and even some HFA adults) live with their families.

In these cases, the ones who require support and assistance are the caregivers. Caring for an autistic can be extremely overwhelming and stressful, especially when you are faced with:

- Learning everything you can about adult autism
- Locating the necessary services, treatments and supports needed
- Dealing with different health care service providers
- Financial burden
- Socially isolating yourself in your home, as making social calls can be difficult
- Focusing all your attention on one child and giving less attention to the rest
- Discrimination from others

Support for caregivers of autistics
There are different services you can look for to help you cope with adult autism, such as counseling, reducing stress, learning new techniques, financial advice, etc. Support can be found in the following ways -

Locally ? The same methods used in HFA support listed above can be used to find local support.
- Friends ? If you have made friends who also have autistic children, use them as support and find out if they have any new information they can provide for a particular problem you may be facing.

Online ? There are many support groups online. Check out the following:
- http://www.autism-society.org
- www.autismsociety.ca
- http://www.bbbautism.com
- http://www.autismlink.com
- http://www.udel.edu

Each provides you with information, resources and support groups for adult autism.

By R. Evans. Sign up for a free managing autism newsletter autism newsletter & discover more about high functioning autism.

What To Do After An Autism Diagnosis For Your Child

                

 

If you?re child has received an autism diagnosis, you may feel like all of the hopes and dreams you had for your child?s future have ended. These feelings of guilt, grief and fear are normal for parents when they first discover their child is autistic. However, you need to know that you?re not alone and there is help out there for both you and your child.

To help you cope with the autism diagnosis, the following are 10 guidelines for you to take into consideration:

1.Don?t Panic ? Feeling overwhelmed is natural at first, but this drowning feeling will pass. You need to remember autism - although a challenging condition - is not a life threatening illness. Autism isn?t the end of the world; take the time to calm down and rationally think things through.

2.Your child is still the same ? An autism diagnosis doesn?t mean your child is any different than he/she was prior to your knowledge of his/her condition. A diagnosis has only provided you with the chance to better understand your child, so you can provide him/her with the support that will allow him/her to have the best life. The love you have for your child and all the good you see in him or her will remain their forever. No diagnosis can change that.

3.Educate yourself ? Find out everything there is to know about autism. You can find information in books and articles in your local library, bookstore and online. The internet is a fantastic resource for autism.

4.Ask questions ? don?t forget to address any questions or concerns you may have with your doctor.

5.Find out what your child needs ? Depending on the type of autism diagnosis your child receives he/she may have many or few special needs. Carefully analyze your child?s behaviors and discuss them with your doctor to determine the best course of action for treating the issue. For instance, does your child have sensory problems? Speech delays? Social deficits? Etc.

6.Find out what is available ? Just because you discover what your child needs, doesn?t mean you?ll have immediate access to the therapies required, or even know how to work them into your lifestyle if they are available. . You also need to find out if your medial insurance will cover any of the therapies your child will need. Once you have everything sorted out, you can begin to set up a program that can meet your needs.

7.Stick to basic therapies ? When you research therapies, you will discover that there are numerous treatments. Instead of becoming overwhelmed, focus on the basic therapies that are readily available, appropriate to your child, and funded. The basics usually include speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. There may also be therapies offered within schools.

8.Introduce treatment slowly ? Remember, most therapies are a slow process that take weeks or even months until you begin to see a difference in your child. Therefore, try not to introduce too many therapies after the autism diagnosis. When you take it slow you are able to observe how your child responds to each, and determine what is successful and what isn?t.

9.Relax ? The wellbeing of your child is important, but so is yours and the rest of your family. It?s imperative that you find ways to relieve your stress, take breaks, and enjoy your own life. You will be able to better care for your autistic child when you are well rested.

10.You?re not alone ? There are many autism support groups you can join both locally and online after receiving an autism diagnosis. Talking to other parents with autistic children, and hearing and sharing your experiences can be very helpful and therapeutic to you and your child.

By Rachel Evans. To find out more about autism diagnosis and for information on autism characteristics please visit the links.

Raising Children With High Functioning Autism

                

 

If your child has been diagnosed with high functioning autism, parenting can be a challenge. The main reason is because autistics do not think and mentally develop the same way as the average child, and so must be taught individually and differently. Therefore, the challenge is finding out what parenting methods work for your autistic child. Essentially, it?s a lot of trial and error.

Raising a child with high functioning autism can be made easier by providing children with the necessary therapy they require. However, aside from therapy, the following are 5 basic parenting tips that may prove helpful along the way:

Tip 1 - Create Schedules ? Most autistics, including those with high functioning autism, resist change and insist on routine. Creating schedules helps autistic children to better comprehend situations and learn. You need to provide your child with a daily schedule that shows him/her the order of activities they will experience. If your child has difficulty reading, create a picture schedule.

Furthermore, telling a child in advance that an activity is about to change, helps to create an easier transition for them. For instance, tell your child ?In 5 minutes, we?re going to stop coloring and read a story?.

Tip 2 - Create understanding ? Make sure your child understands what you want him/her to do. Ensure that the task you are asking is achievable and you understand the specific way in which your child learns and reacts to information told to him/her.

For instance, you should refrain from using figures of speech as part of instruction. A figure of speech is when you use an expression that has a non-literal meaning (IE. metaphors, similes, etc.) This form of language will be lost on an autistic. Thus, a better choice would be to use a visual aid such as a picture or a demonstration, to clarify the task.

Tip 3 ? Create a personalized behavior plan ? You can?t rely on the parenting methods that work for parents with regular children, or even those who have a child with high functioning autism. You need to create a program that is specifically oriented around the interests and needs of your child. This means analyzing your child?s behavior and creating a personal program based on his/her behavioral patterns. This is how you will eventually get your child to learn, respond and interact with others.

Tip 4 ? Focus on improvement ? Instead of trying to explain to your child what you don?t like when they do something you deem inappropriate or unproductive, focus on improving their behavior. If you want to improve on past behaviors, teach new ?acceptable? ones to replace the old.

Teaching new behavioral skills will take plenty of time, patience and practice, but eventually the new acceptable behaviors will replace those you don?t approve of.

Tip 5 ? Sensitivity alert! ? Make sure you are aware of the triggers that will upset your child, so you can do your best to ensure they are avoided. Some issues that tend to upset those with high functioning autism include, but are not limited to:

? Sudden loud sounds (IE. alarms)
? Unusual smells in a particular room
? Discomfort when touched
? Being bumped

Although you can?t ensure your child will always be safe from sensitive issues, by knowing what they are helps you to have more control. Like any child, the less stress your autistic child has, the more productive they will be.

Remember, as a parent of a child with high functioning autism, you need to learn how to go with the flow, be creative, patient - and above all ? maintain a positive attitude.

By Rachel Evans. To find out more about high functioning autism and for information on adult autism please visit the links.