Autism and Asperger’s syndrome are among the so-called disorders treatment of the autism spectrum. Above all, problems arise in communication and social interaction. At least one in 100 children is affected.
The onset is in early childhood. However, it is possible that stronger symptoms sometimes only become noticeable in later childhood or adulthood. The impairments can change in the course of life. Learn more about causes, contact points, diagnosis and treatment.Disorders of the autism spectrum: What is it?
Autism spectrum disorders cause difficulties in social behavior and communication. Repetitive behaviors or movement patterns as well as limited interests also occur. In addition, both hypersensitivity and undersensitivity of the senses may be present. Depending on the severity, the symptoms can affect life moderately to severely.
Disorders of the autism spectrum develop from early childhood. Clear symptoms sometimes only appear when the challenges of social life exceed one’s own abilities. An early diagnosis is helpful in order to learn social communication through appropriate measures and thus to keep the restrictions in everyday life as low as possible. What are the causes of autism spectrum disorders?
However, experts assume that heredity plays an essential role. For example, families with an autistic child have a significantly increased risk of having another child with autism. Very rarely, changes in the genetic material can occur even without inheritance. A combination of different spontaneous mutations in genes is likely to trigger the disorder. In addition, damage or dysfunction of the brain could also be a cause. Early childhood autism
Early childhood autism is a pervasive developmental disorder and thus affects different areas of development. It occurs before the age of three. Boys are affected more often than girls.What symptoms can occur in autism?
The hallmarks of early childhood autism include:
- Problems with language development: late or absent onset of language development, loss of words, mechanical repetitive “standard phrases”, echolalia (repeating heard words or phrases).
- Abnormalities of social communication: difficulty in dialogue, restrictions in facial expression or eye contact during communication and gestures (e.g. pointing to something).
- Preoccupation with repetitive activities: These can also be unusual. For example, rotating things or lining up objects while playing. Or rocking or waving hands.
- Social abnormalities: Social withdrawal; non-existent ability or problems to empathize with others; Difficulty building relationships with people of the same age.
The extent to which early childhood autism is pronounced varies. The intellectual abilities are also very different. About one-third of people with autism are affected by intellectual disability. It is possible for children with early childhood autism to acquire minimal or no language skills. Autism lasts a lifetime. However, symptoms may change over time.
In addition, it can lead, for example, to anxiety disorders, eating disorders, strong outbursts of anger or limited regulation of feelings as well as sleep disorders. ADHD or epilepsy can also occur.
The so-called atypical autism occurs only after the age of three. In this case, not all symptoms of early childhood autism are present. How is autism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of autism is usually multidisciplinary by doctors and other health professionals. For example, in the field of clinical psychology or speech therapy. When collecting the medical history (anamnesis), it is essential, among other things, since when symptoms exist and whether other diseases or developmental delays have occurred. In addition, a physical examination takes place. Likewise, a neurological examination, the clarification of the level of development and competencies with regard to language or communication as well as an observation of spontaneous behavior are carried out.
Standardized test procedures are also used. For example, the Diagnostic Interview for Autism or the Diagnostic Observation Scale for Autistic Disorders. The doctor usually also suggests an EEG and a hearing and vision test. In addition, genetic testing can be useful.
The doctor also excludes possible other diseases. A diagnosis of early childhood autism is usually possible at the age of two. The exact diagnosis is occasionally only possible through follow-ups, if the symptoms show up accordingly. How is autism treated?
The most important therapeutic goals for early childhood autism include:
- Promotion of social skills – especially communication through language and non-linguistic communication (e.g. facial expressions and gestures)
- Regulating emotions
- To be able to solve problems
The treatment is tailored to personal needs. In therapy programs especially for children with autism, targeted measures are taken as early as possible. Experts also call these program-based intervention programs. Through a strong involvement of parents as well as kindergarten and school, the implementation of what has been learned can take place in the various areas of life.
The following help options can contribute to treatment or support in everyday life:
- Early intervention
- Speech therapy and, if necessary, supported communication by means of aids
- Psychotherapy: especially behavioral therapy. This is also possible in a group.
- Occupational therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Music therapy
In addition, social support options in everyday life are an essential pillar for children and adolescents or adults with autism. These include, among other things, assistance at school or help through psychosocial services. A regular daily routine and stable social contacts are also important.
The doctor can also prescribe medication. However, these do not work directly against autism. In case of restlessness, irritability or aggressiveness, the active ingredient risperidone is mainly used. If there are symptoms that are similar to ADHD, so-called stimulants can be helpful. For more information, see ADHD in Children & Adolescents: Diagnosis & Therapy in Children. For sleep problems, for example, the hormone melatonin is used. The doctor may also prescribe medication if concomitant diseases are present (e.g. anxiety disorders or epilepsy).
Cooperation with the most important caregivers is essential for the success of treatment. For example, to use acquired skills in the social environment. Families or caregivers can also make use of support themselves, e.g. through parental counselling or in a self-help group.Asperger’s syndrome
At the heart of Asperger’s syndrome are difficulties in dealing with other people. Unlike early childhood autism, intellectual and linguistic development is usually unremarkable. Asperger’s syndrome is also more common in boys than in girls, although it is more likely to go undetected in girls.
If Asperger’s syndrome is detected early, development can be significantly supported by support measures and treatment. Possible consequential problems such as social isolation, exposure to bullying or behavioral problems can thus be significantly reduced. A conventional everyday life may be possible for those affected. What symptoms can occur with Asperger’s syndrome?
The following symptoms appear in people with Asperger’s syndrome:
- Difficulty communicating using eye contact, facial expressions, and body language.
- Problems understanding content beyond the immediate meaning of the word. For example, “reading between the lines” and limited understanding of humor.
- Difficulty putting oneself in the shoes of others.
- Appearance of repetitive movements. For example, waving your hands back and forth – especially when you’re excited.