Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental disability condition that affects a person’s ability to interact with the world around them. Autism has wide-ranging levels of severity and varying characteristics.
The term autism spectrum disorder is an umbrella term that includes autism, Asperger’s syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).
ASD symptoms typically become clearly evident during early childhood, between 12 and 24 months of age. However, symptoms may also appear earlier or later.
Early symptoms may include a noticeable delay in language or social development. The main symptoms of autism are typically divided into two categories: problems with communication and social interaction, and restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour or activities and may include:
Challenges with communicating and interacting with others
Repetitive and different behaviours, including body movements
Strong interest in one topic or subject
Unusual reactions to what they see, hear, smell, touch or taste
Preferences for routines and disliking change
The exact cause of ASD is unknown and there doesn't seem to be one single cause.
Some risk factors associated with ASD include:
Family history of ASD
Genetic mutations
Genetic disorders such as fragile X syndrome
Being born to older parents
Low birth weight
Metabolic imbalances
Exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins
A history of viral infections
Foetal exposure to some medications
An ASD diagnosis involves several different screenings, genetic tests, and evaluations, which may be carried out by doctors, psychologists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists.