Recognizing Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Early Intervention

Autism is a behavioral condition that affects one out of 36 children in the United States according to recent statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diagnosed cases of autism in children have grown over the past few decades due to an increase in awareness and research. If you pay attention and recognize the signs of autism, early intervention from both you and your doctor can help ensure that your child develops in a healthy way well into adulthood. Let the team at Central Illinois Pediatric Associates in Bloomington, IL, be your first call for autism advice and assistance.

Understanding Autism

Children who are diagnosed with autism, also known as ASD (autism spectrum disorder), develop differently in terms of their behaviors, the way they communicate and the way they think. They may also have a tendency to do things repetitively, such as sticking to a very strict and detailed routine. Though learning disabilities may also be a symptom, in some cases, people who have autism have been known to have advanced learning or information processing abilities. Doctors believe that autism is caused by a variety of environmental and possibly genetic factors.

Recognizing Potential Signs of Autism

Children who have autism are often described as being on a spectrum, meaning that they have a range of both special abilities and personalized challenges. Only your pediatrician and a specialist can properly diagnose a case of autism and recommend next steps for your child. Possible signs include:

• Social withdrawal or introversion (wanting to be alone all of the time).
• Outbursts of anger or excitability, especially when a routine is disrupted.
• Desire to follow a strict set of routines or behaviors in daily activities such as eating food a certain way or fixation on specific objects.
• Inability to respond or speak according to the established child development schedule can be a sign of autism. This is something you can discuss in more detail with your Bloomington, IL, pediatrician.

Early Intervention Steps

Autism does not mean something is wrong with your child as much as it means that your child is simply different. He or she has a different perception and relationship with the world. If you work closely with your pediatrician and family therapist to better understand your child's unique case, you can create a lifestyle for your child that promotes optimal development, learning, and social interactions.

Consult Your Child's Pediatrician

The well-being of your child is your most important priority, so if you're concerned about developmental challenges like autism, it's important to talk to a doctor. Dr. Sanjay Saxena, Dr. Jean Kolb and Dr. Anita Lee are pediatricians who specialize in helping children with autism at Central Illinois Pediatric Associates in Bloomington, IL. Call the office for an appointment today at (309) 663-1011.