A Look At Autism

With Autism Spectrum disorder on the rise, some parents are concerned and confused about the symptoms. Judy Nolte, Editor-in-Chief of American Baby Magazine, discusses the diagnosis.

According to the Autism Society of America, roughly 1 to 1.5 million Americans live with Autism. "There's a wide range of conditions and severity of the conditions," says Nolte. "Essentially, it's a child who's very unresponsive, who doesn't communicate well, who doesn't relate to people, who doesn't interact... It can be mild, and it can be very serious." Autism is a genetic condition, so it's important to remember that it's not curable. Early dignosis and treatment, however, can allow an affected child to carry on a more normal life.

In general, most signs of Autism show themselves around 18 and 24 months of age. However, some children are diagnosed much earlier. "The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children get screened at 18 and again at 24 months," says Nolte.

There are therapies available, though, to help children who are diagnosed. "Usually the therapies are occupational therapy and speech therapy," says Nolte. "A lot of what happens is children stop talking - they just don't communicate." Speech therapy helps to combat this symptom of Autism. By going through therapy, children learn to interact with the world in a positive way.

If Autism is diagnosed early enough and therapies are successful, it is possible for some children to "lose" their diagnosis. In other words, their symptoms become so mild that they are no longer on the Autism spectrum. Roughly 15% - 20% of kids who respond well to early therapy lose their diagnosis. The condition will still be present, but they will respond to stimuli just like any other child. "It's not a hopeless condition... Early diagnosis and early treatment is really key," says Nolte.

For more information on Autism, visit www.AmericanBaby.com by clicking here.

By Erin Petrun