What is autism and factors that cause it?

What causes autism differs; autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 54 children in the United States today. However, we know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Since autism is a kind of disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn to think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with it may require significant support in their daily lives, while

Factors that causes autism

Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues.

Some of the suspected risk factors for autism include:

• having an immediate family member with autism
• genetic mutations
• fragile X syndrome and other genetic disorders
• being born to older parents
• low birth weight
• metabolic imbalances
• exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins
• a history of viral infections
• fetal exposure to the medications valproic acid (Depakene) or thalidomide (Thalomid)

 What are the symptoms of autism?

The symptoms typically become clearly evident during early childhood, between 12 and 24 months of age. However, symptoms may also appear earlier or later such as in Wentworth Miller’s case.

Early symptoms may include a marked delay in language or social development.

Problems with communication and social interaction include:

• issues with communication, including difficulties sharing emotions, sharing interests, or maintaining a back-and-forth conversation
• issues with nonverbal communication, such as trouble maintaining eye contact or reading body language
• difficulties developing and maintaining relationships

Restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour or activities include:

• repetitive movements, motions, or speech patterns
• rigid adherence to specific routines or behaviours
• an increase or decrease in sensitivity to specific sensory information from their surroundings, such as a negative reaction to a specific sound
• fixated interests or preoccupations

 Is autism curable?

There are no “cures” for autism, but therapies and other treatment considerations can help people feel better or alleviate their symptoms.

Many treatment approaches involve therapies such as:

• behavioural therapy
• play therapy
• occupational therapy
• physical therapy
• speech therapy

Massages, weighted blankets and clothing, and meditation techniques may also induce relaxing effects. However, treatment results will vary. However, some people on the spectrum may respond well to certain approaches, while others may not.