Autism, or autism spectrum disorders, is a brain disorder that affects the ability to communicate and develop social skills. Autism has a wide range of symptoms and diagnoses and can be mild to severe. There is no standard treatment that works in every case nor is there a cure. The effects of autism can be mitigated with an array of treatments, including medication and therapy. Also, it is important to detect symptoms at an early age in order to intervene and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Though symptoms and severity of autism vary, there are three general abnormalities, which together, usually diagnose autism: impaired communication, impaired social interaction and limited interests in activities or play.
Autism is treated with a case-by-case approach. Different treatments work in different situations. Behavioral treatments, along with medication, are often used simultaneously to treat autism. An examination by an SLP will determine the social/communication skills that need development.
If parents notice a habit of the symptoms listed above, they should consult a team of doctors and physicians to test for autism. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) needs to be consulted early in the diagnosis process because abnormalities with communication and social interaction are some of the first signs of autism. Diagnoses can be made anywhere from ages 2-6, but the sooner confirmed, the sooner intervention can begin.
Hearing and Speech AgencyHarry and Jeanette Weinberg Building 5900 Metro Drive Baltimore, MD 21215 410.318.6780 hasa@hasa.org