Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a wide range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behavior, speech and non-verbal communication. According to the WHO, one in every 100 children worldwide has some form of ASD – although the extent of the condition varies from person to person and may develop over time depending on the specific condition. While some people with autism may live independently, others have serious disabilities that require constant care and support throughout their lives.Also read – Join in your favorite desserts and saviors with this Goody Fall Healthy Twist!
There are many subtypes of autism, most of which are influenced by genetic and environmental factors. While there is a specific set of symptoms for each type of autism, almost all are associated with multiple sensory sensitivities and medical problems, including gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures, sleep disorders and mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues. Also read – Go for Eat-Episode 1: What is Circuit Training? Techniques and benefits explained – see
M-CHAT (Revised Checklist for Autism in Children) can help you determine if a professional should evaluate your child. Social Icons: Also read – World Autism Day 2022: Early Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Treatments, What You Need to Know – See
- Do not make eye contact or make little or no eye contact
- Shows no or little response to parental smiles or other facial expressions
- You can’t see the things your parents are looking at or pointing at
- Cannot point to objects
- There may not be the right facial expressions
- Seeing their facial expressions makes it difficult to understand what other people are thinking or feeling
- Others are less likely to show concern (empathy)
- Having trouble making and keeping friends.
Symptoms of autism usually appear when a child is two or three years old. Furthermore, many researchers and experts agree that early diagnosis can lead to positive results for people with autism. Here are some myths about autism that you should stop believing in to better understand the condition.
Myth 1: Autism is a disease that can be treated
The fact: It is not something that can be treated, but it is something that can be managed because autism is a neuro-developmental disorder that can manifest itself through impairments in communication, social skills and interactions with others. A person with autism can live relatively independently and lead a productive and healthy life – but for that to happen, it is important that the condition be diagnosed as soon as possible and that professional and medical assistance be provided.
Myth 2: Autism can be caused by vaccines
The fact: The myth probably originated from a dubious research study published in the late 1990’s which suggested a possible link between vaccines and autism. However, the experiment performed during this study was not based on scientific standards and was later found to be deceptive, non-replicable and non-indicative of the findings. Despite this fact, many believe this myth, and there is no evidence for it. In fact, a recent study looked at about 660-thousand children over the age of 11 and found no link between the vaccine and autism.
Myth 3: People with autism are violent and have no feelings
The fact: People with autism have emotions, although they may have difficulty expressing them. This is because autism can affect a person’s ability to communicate and share their feelings, often created by the outside world as a lack of emotion. In addition, people with autism may struggle to understand other people’s feelings, body language, expressions, and social nuances, which further perpetuates the myth. This is why therapy and professional intervention is important for people with such conditions, as it will help them communicate and share their feelings better.
Myth 4: Autism only affects the brain
Facts: Autism is often referred to as a neurological disorder. But the truth is that it can target many parts of the human body besides the brain. Children with autism are more likely than the general population to have epilepsy, altered immune function, and gastrointestinal problems. It can also appear different with each person, meaning that while some may struggle with their sleep and diet, others may face more challenges with their cognitive functions.
In conclusion, people with autism have every right to receive patience, understanding and support from their own families, the healthcare sector and society in general. Remember, the best way to help autistic people is to identify them and their situation, and learn more about the situation so that discrimination and prejudice can be reduced. If you think that anyone in your family is showing signs of autism, they should consult a doctor as soon as possible as early diagnosis can help the person to survive and better adapt to the condition.
(Author by Dr. Kedar Tilve, Consultant-Psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital Mulund and Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi and Dr. Asmita Mahajan, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician, SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim)
