What are the early signs of Autism
What causes Autism?
Autism or Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects the way a person behaves, communicates, or interacts. It occurs during childhood and can be characterized by a broad range of symptoms. This blog describes the causes and symptoms of Autism, as discussed by Dr. Arif Khan, the best doctor for Autism Treatment
The causes and risk factors of Autism include:
- Genetics disorders and Family history
- Metabolic imbalances
- Being born to older parents
- Gender; boys are at about four times more risk than girls of developing Autism
- Maternal history of viral infections
- Exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins
How does Autism affect a child?
Behavioural Pattern –
- They may have difficulty with the transition from one activity or other
- Fussy eating manners
- Clumsiness and lack of coordination
- Obsession with a few activities
- Short attention span
- Unusual gaze, that is, they may look at objects from unusual angles
- Repetitive behaviors like jumping, twirling or hand-flapping
- Extreme or no sensitivity to touch, light, sound, and smell
- They may not cry if in pain
Communication –
- Difficulty in using pronouns; for instance, they may refer to self as “you” and others as “I.”
- They are less likely to initiate or continue a conversation
- They struggle to understand what others are saying to them
- They have difficulties in commuting non-verbally, too, such as through hand gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions
- They may have Echolaila; the tendency to repeat the same phrase over and over
Social Skills –
- Aggressiveness, both with self and others
- They may not look at what their parents are pointing at.
- They are less likely to show concern for others.
- They avoid or reject physical contact, such as hugging
- Persistent preference for solitude
- They struggle with making and keeping friends
What are the early signs of Autism in kids?
The symptoms and signs of Autism in a toddler can be identified in the early months. After they grow two to three years, their behavior becomes obvious. A professional evaluation of these symptoms is crucial for effective treatment.
By 6 months
- They don’t smile or show any joyful or engaging expressions
- Limited or no eye contact
By 9 months
- They don’t share facial expressions
- Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds
By 12 months
- They don’t coo or babble
- They might not turn to look even when their name is called several times, but they will respond to other sounds.
By 18 months
- They say very few or no words at all
- They don’t play “make-believe.”
By 24 months
- They say very few or no meaningful phrases at all.
Dr. Arif Khan is a renowned consultant pediatric neurologist certified by the British Board. He is the CEO and founder of Neuropedia Children’s Neuroscience Center in Dubai. He has a high clinical success record and is highly revered for his caring and kind approach to his patients. So if you are referring to a patient for Autism Treatment, book your appointment with us today.
