Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects behavior, communication and social functioning. Autism symptoms typically appear within the first few years of childhood, and last throughout a person’s lifetime. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Autism symptoms can also change with time.

There is no cure for autism, but accurate diagnosis and early intervention can greatly improve quality of life for those living with autism spectrum disorder. The University of Kansas Health System focuses on a multidisciplinary approach to autism treatment, including support for families of those with autism.

Autism spectrum disorder begins in early childhood, and can include language delays, unusual behavior patterns, and social function challenges. Over time, even mild autism symptoms cause issues at school, work or in personal relationships.

Most people with autism are diagnosed in childhood. Sometimes symptoms do not include noticeable developmental differences or are mild enough to be missed, in which case autism may not be diagnosed until later childhood or even adulthood.

The types of autism that doctors currently diagnose used to be considered separate disorders. Today, specialists categorize autism as a spectrum disorder that includes several different forms of autism:

Autism symptoms are most often seen during early childhood development and can sometimes be observed as early as infancy. Different symptoms are seen in various combinations from person to person, as well as showing differences in severity. Not every person on the autism spectrum will show every symptom, and no 2 people with autism will behave exactly alike.

There are several signs that doctors commonly see in autism spectrum disorder:

• Coordination problems
• Differences in speech development, including delayed speech
• Flat, monotonous or abnormal tone of voice
• Intense focus on a single object or topic
• Learning disabilities
• Not engaging in interactive play
• Poor eye contact or avoiding eye contact
• Problems expressing and recognizing emotions, including inability to correctly interpret facial expressions
• Problems with social interactions, such as missing social cues
• Problems with two-way conversation
• Problems with verbal and nonverbal communication
• Repetitive movements or ritualistic behaviors
• Resisting touch, cuddling or being held
• Self-harming behaviors
• Socially withdrawn

Autism spectrum disorder also often occurs in combination with other health conditions:

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Digestive disorders
• Epilepsy or seizures
• Immune system disorders
• Sleep disorders

There is no known cause for autism spectrum disorder. Both genetic factors and environmental factors can contribute to autism. Boys are more likely to develop autism than girls, and autism is more likely to affect siblings in the same family.

Early intervention is critical to create the best autism treatment plan. Because autism affects a range of communication, behavioral and social skills, our team adopts an individualized approach to treating autism spectrum disorder.

Typically, a combination of different treatments works best for most people with autism, depending on their symptoms:

• Behavioral therapy
• Communication therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy

Family therapy is typically part of autism treatment as well, to help family members understand better how to better interact with their autistic loved one.

Your doctor may also prescribe medications to help control certain symptoms related to autism, such as anxiety. However, there is no medication that will help improve the core symptoms of autism.