Asperger's Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorders

1. Asperger's Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorders Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a broad term given to an array of disorders that can afflict people from birth to age 18. These can include Asperger's Syndrome, Down syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Autism Spectrum Disorder can be defined as a generic umbrella phrase used to describe many of the most common autism Spectrum disorders. The disorder is categorized as such because the symptoms exhibited by people with autism spectrum disorder are not typically exhibited by other people with similar backgrounds. People with autism spectrum disorder also display unusual patterns of behavioral expression. The disorder can have profound influences on the sufferer's ability to function within the communities in which they live. People with autism spectrum disorder can exhibit a wide range of symptoms. Generally, these include extreme hyperactivity, usually in the form of alternating between agitated and unruly behavior, excessive hand washing or finger play, and marked social skills impairment. Often, individuals with ASD have a tendency to have problems starting and maintaining friendships. They often lack the ability to adopt a consistent social routine. When making friends, they tend to have problems picking out friends based on interests or personalities. Unlike autistic spectrum disorders, people with developmental disabilities (DD) do not usually suffer from extreme hyperactivity or the inability to maintain friendships. Instead, DD involves problems with communication, social skills, self care, and physical development. People with DD might spend a lot of time sitting in one position, unable to move or make eye contact with others. They may also be very slow to pick up languages. Sometimes, they present with a series of early signs of sickness or disease, such as undetected ear infections, urinary tract infections, or a baby with underdeveloped lungs. Not all individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have limited abilities in one or more areas. Typically, however, individuals with ASDs exhibit at least one or more of the following: poor communication skills, significant difficulty with nonverbal communication, significant delays in growth, consistent musculoskeletal issues, persistent feelings of unexplained pain, problems involving self care, problems with self-related concerns, consistent difficulties with establishing relationships, poor understanding of concepts and directions, and problems relating to relationships and time. People with developmental disabilities are also at an increased risk of being abused or neglected. These individuals may also have trouble making friends. Know more Speech Language Pathology therapy Bowmanville Communication is one of the more difficult areas of functioning affected by individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Individuals with ASDs commonly have problems communicating in ways that are typical for their age group. For example, they will not speak with words or phrases that are familiar to them, will use words or phrases in the wrong order, or may have trouble making eye contact with others. Their communication will often be monotonous or

2. appear to be stuck in the same routine. Because of their lack of ability to form relationships, they are at risk for developing negative interpersonal relationships, such as feelings of isolation, anxiety, and anger. In terms of physical behaviors, individuals with autism spectrum disorder are characterized by frequent tantrums, expressions of aggression, and a variety of related behaviors. Frequent increase in heart rate and blood pressure, sweating, cold hands or feet, painful skin rubbing, and lack of appetite are also common. They can be extremely self-destructive, repeatedly banging doors and walls in an attempt to get attention and to shut out people they do not know. Other self-harming behaviors include hair pulling, biting of the nails and lips, biting the back of the neck, constantly shaking their head, repeating words or phrases, and excessive hand flapping. These types of behaviors are indicative of an autistic disorder rather than autism itself. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are at greater risk than the general population for developing depression, substance abuse, substance use disorders, self-harm, suicide attempts, incarceration, hunger, and other social deviant behaviors. Having these symptoms present will not necessarily mean you have an autistic disorder, but it may help you to better understand the risk factors. If you notice any of these behaviors persisting in your child, you should contact your pediatrician for a full assessment of your child's social environment, brain development, and the medical potential of treating the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. These factors can then be implemented into treatment programs. Because many of these symptoms overlap in severe cases, it is often necessary to use a range of treatments, including medication and/or therapy. Early diagnosis of the disorder and the application of appropriate treatment strategies will greatly improve the odds that the disorder will be effectively managed and, in turn, significantly improve the quality of life of the individual. It is important to remember that many children outgrow autism spectrum disorders over time. Some individuals with Asperger's Syndrome experience significant improvement in their academic level and general social skills, while others remain affected physically and emotionally. For some children, even after achieving substantial improvement, there are still signs of Asperger's Syndrome that require further evaluation. Therefore, if your child is currently suffering from Asperger's syndrome, you should educate yourself about the disorder so that you can make informed decisions about your child's future. While this can be an intimidating topic for parents of young children, it is important to be informed about the possible treatment and management options so that you can choose the most effective course of action.