Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsSymptoms of AutismDiagnosisCausesTypesTreatmentCoping
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Symptoms of Autism
Diagnosis
Causes
Types
Treatment
Coping
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Symptoms involve challenges or differences in intellectual, language, social, and motor abilities. People with autism may learn, act, think, communicate, and interact differently than people who do not have autism spectrum disorder.
Autism is referred to as a spectrum disorder because there is so much variation in terms of the type of symptoms people experience and the severity of those symptoms.
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While symptoms are often highly variable, they usually begin to appearbefore the age of three. Parents may notice symptoms associated with how children interact socially, their responsiveness to stimulation, and their ability to communicate.
Symptoms of autism include repetitive behaviors, limited interests, and problems with interaction.
While people with autism spectrum disorder may not show all of these symptoms, they usually show several of the following:
Understanding Vocal Stimming
It’s important to remember that because autism is a spectrum condition, people can have symptoms that are described asmild, moderate, orsevere. Some people may have many symptoms but only experience them to a mild degree and can be considered “high functioning.”
In other cases, people might only have a few symptoms in key areas but experience severe impairments due to those symptoms.
People who have milder autism symptoms are often able to function in their daily lives. Still, they may be more likely to have other mental health concerns, including excessive stress, obsessive behaviors,sensory issues, anxiety, anddepression.
Autism is usually diagnosed in childhood, but sometimes it isn’t identified until later in life. It can occur in people of all economic backgrounds, genders, races, and ethnicities.
Signs to Watch For
Every child is different, but some signs that may indicate that a professional evaluation is needed include:
Navigating the Experience of Hyper-Empathy in Autism
Early screening and evaluation are important. If you are concerned about your child’s behavior, it is important to talk to your child’s doctor. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the sooner interventions can begin.
Evaluations
During regular developmental checkups during childhood, doctors track developmental milestones and screen for different types of developmental delays. When children don’t meet certain milestones, they may receive further evaluation.
During an additional evaluation, a group of specialists, which may include a developmental pediatrician, a child psychiatrist, and a speech-language pathologist, will assess age-appropriate behaviors, cognitive skills, and language abilities.
Some types of tests that may be used in the diagnosis of autism include:
Healthcare professionals will want to consider other conditions that may fit better than an autism diagnosis. Some other tests to consider include:
Symptoms typically appear during the first three years of a child’s life and can be reliably diagnosed in children as young as two.
Diagnosis in Adulthood
While autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, it can also be diagnosed during adolescence andadulthood. Diagnosis later in life can sometimes be more difficult since some symptoms of autism can be confused with other mental health conditions such asanxiety,OCD, andADHD.
While researchers are still studying what types of treatments work best for adults with autism, getting a diagnosis can be helpful for understanding both current and past difficulties. It can also help you learn how to recognize your strengths and get help in areas where you may struggle.
Early diagnosis is usually ideal, but it is never too late to be evaluated, diagnosed, and treated for autism. If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to autism, talk to your doctor to learn more.
Prevalence
The frequency of autism occurs in approximately 1% to 2% of the U.S. population.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the condition exists in all ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic groups. However, they found thatautism is four times more common in boysthan ingirls.
While the exact causes are not known, research suggests that the condition likely has a genetic aspect.
Research that points to a genetic connection includes studies showing that children who have a sibling with autism are at a higher risk of having autism.
However, research has also found that only around 20% can be directly attributable to genetic causes. Further research is needed to understand better how specific genetic mutations or variations may contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorder.
While genes are thought to be a key contributor, studies have also shown that premature birth and advanced paternal age are also linked to the onset of autism.
Certain drugs, toxins, and maternal illness during pregnancy have also been linked to a higher risk for autism spectrum disorder.
Research has repeatedly demonstrated that vaccines do not cause autism.
When a person is diagnosed with autism, they will also have their functional level identified. There are three different levels of autism spectrum disorder:
These levels are used to describe how severely behaviors and social skills are affected and how much support is needed.
Level 1 - Requiring Support
Level 1 is considered a mild form of autism. People who have this type may have problems with social relationships and restrictive behaviors. They usually only need minimal support to function in their everyday daily life.
Level 2 - Requiring Substantial Support
Those with Level 2 autism spectrum disorder need more support. Their social difficulties are apparent; they may have problems communicating and may need assistance to manage problematic behaviors.
Level 3 - Requiring Very Substantial Support
People with Level 3 autism have symptoms that interfere with their ability to live and function independently. People with this level of autism often do not communicate verbally, struggle with change, have repetitive or restrictive behaviors, and may be acutely sensitive to sensory stimuli.
Previous Types
The 2013 publication of theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)marked significant changes in how autism was classified and diagnosed. Until the publication of the DSM-5, experts referred to different types of autism. These included:
Today, these conditions are simply known as autism spectrum disorder. While the above types are no longer official diagnoses, some people still find them useful as a way to describe how symptoms are experienced and their severity. For example, people often find that Asperger’s is helpful as a self-identity or to connect with peers with similar experiences.
Undestanding Asperger’s and Social Anxiety Disorder
While autism is a lifelong condition, some treatments can help with many symptoms and improve a person’s ability to function in different areas of life.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, treatment should begin as quickly as possible following a diagnosis.
There is no single treatment that is best. People with autism have a wide range of symptoms, so that means that each person is different. Some of the treatment options that might be used include medications and therapy.
Treatment and Support for Autism
Medications
While no specific medication is approved for treating autism, a doctor may prescribe certain medications to alleviate certain symptoms.
Medications such asselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotics,stimulants, anti-anxiety medications, and anticonvulsants may help with symptoms such as:
Behavioral and Developmental Therapy
Treatment for autism often focuses on behavioral, psychological, or skills training interventions.
One commonly used approach isapplied behavior analysis (ABA), a form of therapy that utilizes reinforcements to teach and reinforce desirable behaviors and skills.
Other common therapies used in the treatment of autism include:
Such treatments are designed to help people with autism spectrum disorder to:
Other therapies that may be used include assistive technology, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training. Treatment also often incorporates aspects of caregiver training in which parents and other caregivers learn skills that will help them reinforce what is being worked on in treatment.
In addition to seeking professional treatment, there are also a number of self-help strategies that you can use to help cope with some of the symptoms of autism. Some things that can help:
Living Well with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Be Accepting
Rather than focusing on differences, try viewing these unique characteristics as just part of who someone is. Practice acceptance and unconditional love instead of focusing on trying to “fix” the things that make someone different from others.
Neurodivergence is Different, but not a Deficit
Create a Relaxing and Comfortable Environment
Pay attention to things that may be a source of stress, such as sensory stimuli such as loud noises or bright lights.
What is Sensory Overload?
People with autism do best with routines and structure. Keep things consistent each day, including meals, school, appointments, therapy, and bedtime. When there are going to be changes or disruptions, be sure to give the individual plenty of warning and time to prepare.
The Importance of Keeping a Routine
Join a Support Group
Look for local support groups in your area or join a group online. You can share experience, get support, learn about treatments, and discover resources and programs related to autism spectrum disorder.
How to Find a Support Group
Learn to Identify Triggers
If certain things tend totriggerdisruptive or challenging behaviors, you can find ways to prevent or modify those difficult situations.
Pay Attention to Nonverbal Communication
Because people with autism often struggle with communication and social behaviors, they may not be able to tell you what’s wrong. Look at things such as facial expressions,body language, and other nonverbal signals.
Use Positive Reinforcement
The goal is to offer a reward when you “catch them being good.” When you notice that they are using a new skill or doing something good, praise them for it. Verbal encouragement can go a long way, but you can also use other desired rewards, such as stickers or preferred activities, to reinforce appropriate behaviors.
How to Care for a Child with Autism
Final Thoughts
Autism is a complex condition that can cause various degrees of impairment and affect a person’s life in many different areas. Early intervention is important, and many types of treatment and resources are available to help. Finding the right properment for yourself or your loved one can help them function more independently and live a fulfilling life.
The Neurodivergent Guide to Socializing
8 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Association for Science in Autism Treatment.Autism diagnosis.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Screening for autism spectrum disorder.Lord C, Risi S, DiLavore PS, Shulman C, Thurm A, Pickles A.Autism from 2 to 9 years of age.Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2006;63(6):694-701. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.63.6.694National Institute of Mental Health.Autism spectrum disorder.American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR); 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years—autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2020.Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2023;72(2);1–14Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About autism spectrum disorder.Taylor LE, Swerdfeger AL, Eslick GD.Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies.Vaccine. 201417;32(29):3623-3629. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.04.085
8 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Association for Science in Autism Treatment.Autism diagnosis.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Screening for autism spectrum disorder.Lord C, Risi S, DiLavore PS, Shulman C, Thurm A, Pickles A.Autism from 2 to 9 years of age.Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2006;63(6):694-701. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.63.6.694National Institute of Mental Health.Autism spectrum disorder.American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR); 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years—autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2020.Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2023;72(2);1–14Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About autism spectrum disorder.Taylor LE, Swerdfeger AL, Eslick GD.Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies.Vaccine. 201417;32(29):3623-3629. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.04.085
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Association for Science in Autism Treatment.Autism diagnosis.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Screening for autism spectrum disorder.Lord C, Risi S, DiLavore PS, Shulman C, Thurm A, Pickles A.Autism from 2 to 9 years of age.Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2006;63(6):694-701. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.63.6.694National Institute of Mental Health.Autism spectrum disorder.American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR); 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years—autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2020.Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2023;72(2);1–14Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About autism spectrum disorder.Taylor LE, Swerdfeger AL, Eslick GD.Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies.Vaccine. 201417;32(29):3623-3629. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.04.085
Association for Science in Autism Treatment.Autism diagnosis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Screening for autism spectrum disorder.
Lord C, Risi S, DiLavore PS, Shulman C, Thurm A, Pickles A.Autism from 2 to 9 years of age.Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2006;63(6):694-701. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.63.6.694
National Institute of Mental Health.Autism spectrum disorder.
American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR); 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years—autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2020.Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2023;72(2);1–14
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About autism spectrum disorder.
Taylor LE, Swerdfeger AL, Eslick GD.Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies.Vaccine. 201417;32(29):3623-3629. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.04.085
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