The Many Faces of Autism
Content updated from previous publish date.
Do you have one of the estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? If you’re the parent of a child with ASD, you know that an autism diagnosis is life-changing for your child, for you, and for your entire family. Autism is associated with deficits in social skills, communication, and the ability to form and maintain friendships. Kids with autism may have rigid thinking, may be hypersensitive to sensory stimuli, and may have limited interests. This can change the family dynamic and create unexpected challenges for parents and siblings. This blog will help you understand the latest science on what causes autism and how can you manage it.
If you’re the parent of a child with ASD, you know that an autism diagnosis is life-changing for your child, for you, and for your entire family.
WHAT IS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER?
ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s behaviors and ability to communicate, learn, and relate to others. Autism is not one single thing; it has many faces. Just look at a classroom full of autistic children, and you will see that they are not all alike.- 31% have an intellectual disability
- Boys are diagnosed with autism at 4 times the rate of girls
- One-third have superior skills in 1 or more areas
- About 20% have epilepsy
WHAT CAUSES AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER?
Scientists have yet to pinpoint a specific cause for autism, however, they have discovered numerous contributing factors.- Genetics: Autism is often attributed to genetics, but the increasing rate of the condition shows that genetics cannot be the sole cause. In fact, a 2019 study found that genetics accounts for only 10-20% of autism cases. It’s important to note that genetic variations don’t directly cause ASD. Rather, some genetic variations predispose a child to develop ASD if exposed to certain environmental stressors.
- Environmental stressors: Infections, inflammatory events such as immunizations, and exposure to environmental toxins like mold or industrial chemicals are environmental stressors that are associated with increased risk of autism. In addition, the increased use of prescription medications, including antibiotics, can cause harmful changes to gut bacteria. And kids with autism are more likely to have gut health issues. Research shows that the wide use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) in babies causes oxidative stress in the developing brains of young infants, which is associated with autism.
- IVF treatment: Some studies have found a link between certain fertility treatments, such as IVF, and ASD symptoms, but the research is mixed.
- Premature birth: Research has found that the chances of an autism diagnosis is 3.3 times greater in those born prematurely. pre-
- Advanced paternal age: According to research, advanced parental age is considered a risk factor for ASD.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN FOOD AND AUTISM SYMPTOMS
Food can play a critical role in the severity of autism symptoms. Processed foods that are full of preservatives, pesticides, artificial colors and flavorings, and other chemicals may contribute to autism and can exacerbate ASD symptoms, according to a 2019 study. Foods that lack fiber promote the overgrowth of destructive bacteria, which may influence behavior. On the other hand, emerging research shows that consuming organic foods that are high in fiber and healthy fats may help. Some foods can make autism worse. For example, many children with autism may have a sensitivity to gluten and dairy, which can trigger immune responses associated with autoimmune disorders. Removing dairy and wheat products from the diet can significantly reduce GI problems and other symptoms.IMPROVING SOCIAL SKILLS IN AUTISM
Children with ASD have difficulty with social skills, and as a result, they are more likely to be bullied in school. They tend to be sensitive to scents, noise, bright lights, and powerful emotions. To help manage these issues, follow these tips:- Seek school accommodations. Speak with your school administrators about accommodations or individualized education plans for your child. Smaller classroom sizes, for example, may be beneficial.
- Find pleasant sensory stimuli. Some kids with autism feel better while wearing headphones to reduce irritating noises. Others enjoy touching something with a texture they like. Find what works for your child.
- Try occupational therapy. Kids with ASD often exhibit emotional immaturity and have difficulty dealing with life’s stress. Occupational therapy can provide guidance in developing emotional skills, tolerating change, delaying gratification, and coping with setbacks.
- Try the “Theory of Mind.” Autistic children have a hard time understanding that other kids and adults see things differently than they do. This can make them uninterested in things that are important to others. You can practice the Theory of Mind by asking your child what they think other people are thinking.
- Stick to routines. Kids with ASD tend to do better with routines and advance notice of any changes.
- Seek professional help. Going to a mental health professional who understands the role of the brain in ASD can be helpful for both children with autism and their parents. You can learn proven strategies to improve ASD symptoms, help your child reach their potential, and reduce friction in your home life.
