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• Autism is a developmental disorder that causes substantial impairment in children's communicative and social skills and abilities. Autism is one of five pervasive developmental disorders in children.

  There is no cure for autism, though research has shown that the earlier an autism diagnosis is made, the sooner treatment can begin to help the autistic child function at the highest level possible. Treatments vary depending on the child and the degree of autism impairment. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment may include behavior and communication therapies, educational therapies and drug therapies.Autism Society of America: About Autism MayoClinic.com: Autism: Treatments and Drugs

• Fast Facts

  1. Type of ailment: Brain development disorder
  2. Duration: Ongoing
  3. Common medication or therapy: Behavior training, communication therapy, educational therapy, drug therapy, including the use of antidepressants or antipsychotic drugsMayoClinic.com: Autism: Treatments and Drugs
  4. Autism therapy may also include education and support for parents of autistic children
  5. Alternative treatments for autism may include a special diet and creative therapyMayoClinic.com: Autism: Treatments and Drugs
  6. Cause: Unknown

• Autism Symptoms

  Symptoms of autism differ between children. Typically, autism symptoms may begin to emerge when a child is around 18 months old, but some children are not diagnosed until they are as old as three years old. Core symptoms may include:

  • Problems with verbal and nonverbal communication
  • Poor eye contact
  • Failure to develop peer relationships
  • Not showing interest or enjoyment in activities and interaction with others
  • Lack of empathy
  • Sensitivity to light, sound or touch
  • Repetitive patterns of behaviorCDC.gov: Diagnostic Criteria for 299.00 Autistic Disorder WebMD: Autism: Symptoms

• United States Statistics

  1. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every 150 children in the United States has autismAutism Society of America: About Autism
  2. Nearly one out of every 94 boys have autismAutism Society of America: About Autism

• Disclaimer

  The content on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a physician for information on autism treatment.

  
  | Autism | Pervasive Developmental Disorder | Autism Spectrum Disorders | Autism Speaks | Asperger Syndrome | Rett Syndrome

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