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Autism may be caused by a variety of circumstances, and it frequently coexists with sensory
sensitivities, physical conditions including gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, seizures, or sleep
disorders, as well as psychological difficulties like anxiety, depression, and attention deficits.
Autism symptoms often manifest around the age of 2 or 3. Some related developmental
impairments may manifest much sooner, and they are frequently detectable as early as 18
months. According to research, early intervention helps autistic persons achieve their goals
later in life.
ASD usually manifests before the age of three and can last the rest of a person's life,
however symptoms occasionally become better with age. ASD symptoms might appear in
some kids within the first year of life. Others might not experience symptoms until they are
24 months old or older. Some ASD children learn new skills and reach developmental
milestones up to the age of 18 to 24 months, at which point they cease doing so or lose the
abilities they previously possessed.
Adolescents and young adults with ASD may struggle to make and keep friends,
communicate with peers and adults, or comprehend what is appropriate conduct in the
workplace or at school. They could be noticed by medical professionals if they also have
disorders like anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which affect
persons with ASD more frequently than those without ASD.
Diagnosis
Since there is no medical test, such as a blood test, to
diagnose ASD, doing so might be challenging. To determine a
diagnosis, doctors consider the child's behavior and
developmental stage. ASD can occasionally be identified in
children as early as 18 months. A valid diagnosis made by a
qualified expert can be assumed by the age of two. 1
However, a lot of kids don't get a definitive diagnosis until
they're considerably older. Some patients don't receive a
diagnosis until they are teenagers or adults. People with ASD
may not receive the early assistance they require because of
this delay.
Treatment
The goal of current ASD therapy is to lessen symptoms that affect everyday living and quality
of life. Because ASD has a distinct impact on everyone, each person with ASD has various
strengths, problems, and treatment requirements. 2 Treatment programs are often
customized for each patient and involve several providers.
References:
1. https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism
2. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html