Autism spectrum disorder : Causes-Symptoms-Diagnosis-Treatment
What is Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
Autism spectrum disorder is a condition that affects how a person thinks, behaves, and communicates with others. It can include difficulties in social interaction and communication as well as unusual and repetitive behaviors. The term "spectrum" refers to the wide range of symptoms that people with autism experience. The disorder can have a wide range of symptoms and be severe.
Autism spectrum disorder includes conditions that used to be considered separate—autism, Asperger's syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder. Some people still use the term Asperger's syndrome, which is generally a mild form of autism. Some people think that autism spectrum disorder is at the mild end of the spectrum.
Autism spectrum disorder begins in early childhood and can cause problems functioning socially, such as in school and at work. A small number of children seem to develop normally at the beginning, but eventually they will show signs of autism. Autism symptoms sometimes occur between the ages of 18 and 24 months.
There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, but intensive early treatment can make a big difference in the lives of many children.
Medical terms
Autism, or syndrome spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad variety of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech ANd nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Sickness Control, autism affects a calculable one in forty four youngsters within the US today.
We all know that there's not one autism however several subtypes, most affected by a mixture of genetic and environmental factors. As a result of autism may be a spectrum disorder, all and sundry with autism includes a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which individuals with autism learn, assume and problem-solve will range from highly practiced to severely challenged. Some individuals with ASD could need vital support in their daily lives, whereas others may would like less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.
Many factors may influence the event of syndrome, and it's usually among sensory sensitivities and medical problems that adore gi (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, in addition to mental state challenges such as anxiety, depression and spotlight issues.
Signs of autism sometimes seem by age two or 3. Some associated development delays will appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Analysis shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for individuals with syndrome.
* In 2013, the yank psychiatric Association united four distinct autism diagnoses into one umbrella identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They enclosed unfit disorder, childhood decompositional disorder, pervasive organic process disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can result in difficulties with social interaction and communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD often have difficulty interpreting what others are thinking or feeling, which can make it hard to build relationships with others. They may also engage in repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping, spinning, or lining up objects. ASD begins early in life and can be diagnosed as early as age 2 or 3.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behaviors. Signs and symptoms typically emerge before the age of three. ASD affects about 1 in 59 children. ASD is four times more common among boys than among girls.
Symptoms Autism spectrum disorder
in adults There are three categories of symptoms which may be present in children with autism These include behavioral social and speech or language symptoms Symptoms are often described as "the triad" or the three areas on which professionals evaluate a child during an assessment There can be one symptom in just one area; two symptoms in two separate areas; or all three areas may demonstrate behaviors that fall into the spectrum of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Some children show signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in early infancy, such as reduced eye contact, a lack of response to their name, or indifference to caregivers. Other children may develop normally for the first few months or years of life, but then suddenly become withdrawn or aggressive or lose interest in things they used to enjoy. Language skills typically develop at around 2 years old. Signs may be seen by this age.
Each child with autism spectrum disorder will have a unique pattern of behavior and level of severity. Some children will have low functioning, while others will have high functioning.
Some children with autism spectrum disorder have difficulty learning, while others have normal intelligence. Some children with autism spectrum disorder have signs of lower than normal intelligence; however, others have high intelligence. Adjusting to social situations can be difficult.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how severe a child's symptoms are. It depends on the level of impairments and how they impact their ability to function.
Some common signs that someone has autism spectrum disorder are:
Social communication and interaction
A child or adult with autism spectrum disorder may have problems with social interaction and communication skills - any of these signs: - difficulty understanding facial expressions - not responding to others when called by their name - not initiating conversation - seeming uninterested in others
Some people may not respond to their name or appear not to be listening when you are speaking to them.
This leaf seems to resist being hugged and cuddled, preferring to play alone in his or her own world.
The person has poor eye contact and does not appear to be very happy.
Some children don't speak or lose their ability to say words or sentences as they get older.
It is hard to start a conversation or keep one going, and he will only start talking when making requests or labeling items.
The person has an unusual voice, and it may sound robotic or like they are speaking in a singsong manner.
This passage is exactly the same as the one before it, but my second grader doesn't understand how to use the words or phrases.
It does not appear that he understands simple questions or directions.
She doesn't seem to be very emotional or feeling, and she appears not to care about other people's feelings.
She does not show an interest in sharing things with others.
If someone interacts with you in a way that you do not like, they might be passive aggressive or disruptive.
Some people have difficulty reading nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, body positions, or tone of voice.
Patterns of behavior
Many children or adults with autism spectrum disorder have repetitive patterns of behavior that are limited to a few specific interests or activities. Some of the signs that may indicate this include:
The person is moving their body in a repetitive way, such as rocking, spinning, or hand flapping.
This child may be engaging in activities that could lead to self-harm, such as biting or banging their head.
People who have a ritualistic personality often become disturbed when their routine is disrupted.
The child has problems coordinating movements or has unusual movement patterns, such as clumsiness or walking on their toes. They may also have stiff or exaggerated body language.
My second grader is interested in the details of a toy car, but he doesn't understand its purpose or function.
This person is unusually sensitive to light, sound, or touch, but may be indifferent to pain or temperature.
This child does not engage in pretend play or imitation.
When the decoupage is dry, it will fixate on an object or activity in a peculiar way.
Some people have specific food preferences, such as eating only a few types of foods or refusing foods with a certain texture.
Some children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) become more engaged with others as they mature. Some who have the mildest problems may lead normal or near-normal lives. Others, however, continue to have difficulty with language or social interactions. As skills and teenage years develop, behavioral and emotional problems can worsen.
When to see a doctor Autism spectrum disorder
Some babies develop at their own pace, and not all babies follow the same timeline as found in some parenting books. But most children with autism spectrum disorder usually show some signs of delayed development before age 2 years.
If you have concerns about your child's development or think your child may have autism spectrum disorder, talk to your doctor. The symptoms associated with the disorder can also be linked with other developmental issues.
Autism spectrum disorder often begins to be noticed in children during the early stages of development, when there are delays in language skills and social interactions. If your child has delays in cognitive language and social skills, your doctor may recommend developmental tests to determine if the child has a delay in these abilities.
It is not normal for a baby to not smile or have a happy expression at six months old.
A baby does not imitate sounds or facial expressions by nine months old.
Doesn't babble or coo by 12 months
At 14 months old, a baby does not typically gesture.
This passage is not written in complete sentences by 16 months old.
A child should not be playing pretend by the age of 18 months.
This passage does not contain two-word phrases by 24 months of age.
People who lose language skills or social skills at any age have a difficult time doing those things.
Causes Autism spectrum disorder
There is no known cause for autism spectrum disorder. Symptoms and severity vary, which means that there are probably many causes. Both genetics and environment may play a role.
Genetics. There are several different genes that appear to be involved in autism spectrum disorder. Some children with autism spectrum disorder may have a genetic disorder such as Rett syndrome or fragile X syndrome. Other children may have mutations that increase their risk of developing autism spectrum disorder. There is chaos in the brain. Other genes may affect brain development or the way that brain cells communicate. Some genetic mutations happen spontaneously.
Environmental factors.Scientists are currently investigating whether factors such as viral infections, medications, or complications during pregnancy or air pollution may contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorder.
There is no link between vaccines and autism spectrum disorder
There is no reliable evidence linking autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and childhood vaccines. In fact, the study that first suggested a link was later found to be flawed. The debate about whether or not eating organic food is better has been retracted because of poor design and questionable research methods.
vaccinations are important to prevent diseases such as whooping cough, measles, and mumps. If you do not want your child to get vaccinated, your child and others could be at risk of catching these diseases.
Risk factors Autism spectrum disorder
The number of children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder is rising. We don't know for sure if this is due to better detection and reporting or if there really is an increase in the number of cases, or both.
Autism spectrum disorder affects children of all races and nationalities, but certain factors increase a child's risk. These may include: -Having a family history of autism or other mental disorders -Having unusual symptoms at birth -Being born prematurely or having low birth weight
Your child's sex.Boys are more likely to develop autism spectrum disorder than girls are.
Family history. Parents of a child with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to have another child with the disorder. It is not unusual for parents or relatives of a child with autism spectrum disorder to have difficulties interacting socially or communicating effectively. Some behaviors characteristic of the disorder are observed.
Other disorders. Certain medical conditions increase a child's risk of developing autism or similar symptoms. Some examples include fragile X syndrome, an inherited disorder that causes intellectual problems; tuberous sclerosis, a condition in which benign tumors develop in the brain; and Rett syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs almost exclusively in girls and causes slowing of head growth, intellectual disability, and loss of purposeful hand use.
Extremely preterm babies.Babies born before 26 weeks of gestation may have a greater risk of having autism spectrum disorder.
Parents' ages.There is not yet a clear connection between children born to parents who are older and those who have autism spectrum disorder, but more research needs to be done in order to determine if there is a link.
Complications Autism spectrum disorder
A problem with social interactions, communication, and behavior can lead to problems.
Some problems that may occur in school and with learning are: -Not being able to focus on what is being learned -Having trouble remembering what was learned -Having difficulty making connections between what was learned and how it can be used in real life
Employment problems
Inability to live independently
Social isolation
Stress within the family
Victimization and being bullied
Prevention Autism spectrum disorder
There is no way to prevent autism spectrum disorder, but there are treatment options. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve a child's behavior and language development. However, intervention is helpful at any age. Most children do not outgrow autism spectrum disorder. The disordered symptoms that a person may experience will help him or her learn to function better.
Autism spectrum disorder test
According to the CDC the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in U.S children aged 8 years old has risen from 1 in 150 eight years ago to 1 in 68 today—a 78 percent increase Autism is a developmental disorder that impairs social interaction communication and behavior Although there are no medical tests for diagnosing autism physicians can use screening tools such as a checklist or an instrument that assesses symptoms related to autism (such as behavioral problems) language and cognitive development A comprehensive medical evaluation by a pediatrician is also important since the disorder may be associated with other intellectual impairments and physical health problems People with mild signs
Autism spectrum disorder in adults
Autism spectrum disorder is a range of diseases that involves the brain and that affect one's ability to communicate and socialize It most often occurs in children but there are many adults who suffer from this condition as well According to Autism Speaks adults with autism often have difficulties with work or school due to their inability to interact well with others They can also develop other mental illnesses such as depression anxiety or schizophrenia Since it is unlikely for them to be able to function properly without help finding ways for successful integration into society is critical if they are going to live independently in the future.
What is the difference between autism and autism spectrum disorder?
Autism and Asperger's syndrome are both considered to be part of the autism spectrum disorder Autism is a life-long developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of a child's life It affects how they communicate with and relate to other people as well as how they experience the world around them including objects and emotions People with autism don't always understand what is happening in their own minds or in the minds of others which can lead to difficulties dealing with challenging situations like school or crowded places Symptoms may range from mild to severe and can change over time People with autism may also have certain strengths.
Is autism a disability?
Every child is different and for those with special needs it's even more so Some struggle in certain areas while excelling at others some are extremely active and need a lot of activity every day some have behavior problems that require medication to control them Parents of children with special needs must deal with these challenges on a daily basis because the focus for their children is not so much about whether or not they can do something as it is about how they can do something successfully or most safely Because the law defines disability narrowly learning disabilities and other disabilities that cause differences in functioning don't come within its scope The ADA.
How do I know if I'm on the spectrum?
Do you feel like you are just different, more so than most of your peers? Do you often feel socially isolated out of place or simply wonder why people behave a certain way and have difficulty understanding what motivates them? If this sounds familiar at all it could be that you have Asperger Syndrome (AS) also known as high-functioning autism Being on the autism spectrum can make socializing difficult When interacting with others those with AS find that they do not share common interests or easily understand sarcasm and jokes Emotions may seem to be expressed differently from how they are intended People with AS.
Autism spectrum disorder treatment
and management Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of conditions that have the following in common: problems with social interaction including failure to develop friendships difficulty reading body language or understanding and reacting to sarcasm and humor; difficulties communicating using speech and using and making sense of gestures facial expressions tone of voice and inflection; repeating actions such as rocking and hand-flapping; especially narrow interests; for example cars/motorbikes/trains - this doesn't mean everyone will have obsessions or interests like this but it's very common For.
Diagnosis Autism spectrum disorder
Your child's doctor will check for signs of developmental delays at regular checkups. If your child shows any symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, you'll likely be referred to a specialist who treats children with autism spectrum disorder, such as a child psychiatrist or psychologist. A neurologist or pediatrician who is knowledgeable about developmental disorders would be a good place to start for an evaluation.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition with a wide range of symptoms, so it may be difficult to make a diagnosis. There isn't a specific medical test that can determine the disorder. A specialist may:
Watch your child and ask how their social interactions, communication skills, and behavior have changed over time.
Give your child tests that cover his hearing, speech, and language development at the developmental level as well as social and behavioral issues.
Observe and score your child's social and communication interactions.
The criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) are used to diagnose mental disorders.
Ask other specialists to help make a diagnosis.
It is recommended that genetic testing be performed in order to identify whether your child has a disorder such as Rett syndrome or fragile X syndrome.
Treatment Autism spectrum disorder
There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, and there is no one treatment that works for everyone. The goal of treatment is to help your child improve their ability to function by reducing symptoms and supporting their development and learning. Early intervention can make a big difference during the preschool years. Help your child learn important social communication skills.
There are many treatments and interventions available to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, but it can be difficult to decide what is best for your child. Your health care provider can help you find options and resources in your area.
If your child has autism spectrum disorder, talk to experts about creating a treatment plan and assembling a team of professionals who can meet your child's needs.
Treatment options may include:
Behavior and communication therapies. Many programs focus on reducing challenging behaviors and teaching new skills related to social interaction. Some programs focus on reducing problematic behaviors and teaching new skills, while other programs focus on teaching children how to act in social situations or communicate better. Behavior analysis (ABA) can help children learn new skills and use these skills in multiple situations through a reward-based system.
Educational therapies. Children with autism spectrum disorder often respond well to highly regimented educational programs. Programs that are successful typically include a team of specialists and a variety of activities designed to improve social skills, communication and behavior. Preschool children who receive intensive individualized attention often fare better than those who do not. Behavioral interventions often result in good progress.
Family therapies.Parents and other family members can learn how to play with and interact with their children in ways that help promote social interaction skills, manage problem behaviors, and teach daily living skills and communication.
Other therapies.Speech, occupational, and physical therapy may be helpful for children who need them to improve their communication skills, daily living abilities, and movement. A psychologist can provide advice on how to address problem behavior.
Medications. There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, but specific medications can help control symptoms. For example, some medications may be prescribed if your child is hyperactive; antipsychotic drugs are sometimes used to treat severe behavioral problems; and antidepressants may be prescribed to help improve moods. Tell any health care providers that your child is taking medications or supplements. Make sure to keep them updated on all of the medications and supplements your child is taking. Sometimes the combinations of these substances can lead to dangerous side effects.
Managing other medical and mental health conditions together
Autism spectrum disorder is not the only disorder that can affect children, teens, and adults. Other disorders include:
Medical health issues.Some children with autism spectrum disorder also have medical conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, food preferences that are limited, or stomach problems. You can ask your child's doctor how to best manage these conditions together.
Problems with transition to adulthood.Some teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty understanding body changes. This can make social situations more complex, as there is less tolerance for difference. Teenage behavior can also be challenging during this time period.
Other mental health disorders.Some teens and adults with autism spectrum disorder also have other mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional and community organizations that can provide help.
Planning for the future
Most children with autism spectrum disorder continue to learn and compensate for problems throughout their lives, but they will usually require some level of support. Planning for your child's future opportunities, such as employment, college, living situation, and independence, is important. If the leaf is too lightweight, it will not hold its shape while decoupaging.
Alternative medicine
Some parents of children with autism spectrum disorder seek alternative or complementary therapies, but there is little or no research to support the effectiveness of these treatments. You may inadvertently reinforce negative behaviors by providing them; and some alternative therapies could potentially harm a child. Be careful.
Talk to your child's doctor about the scientific evidence behind any therapy you are considering for your child.
Some complementary and alternative therapies may offer some benefits when used in combination with evidence-based treatments, such as:
Creative therapies.Some parents choose to supplement educational and medical intervention with music or art therapy, which focuses on reducing a child's sensitivity to touch. These therapies may offer some benefit when used in combination with other treatments.
Sensory-based therapies. These therapies are based on the unproven theory that people with autism spectrum disorder have a sensory processing disorder that causes problems with touch, balance, and hearing. Therapists use brushes, squeezable toys, trampolines, and other materials to help these people tolerate or process sensory information. These therapies may not be effective, but it's possible they could offer some benefit when used in conjunction with other treatments.
Massage.There is not enough evidence to determine if massage can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.
Pet or horse therapy.Pets can provide companionship and recreation, but more research is needed to determine whether interacting with animals can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.
Some complementary and alternative therapies may not be harmful, but there is no evidence that they work. Some may also be expensive and difficult to use. Some examples of these therapies include:
Special diets. There is no evidence that special diets are an effective treatment for autism spectrum disorder. And for growing children, restrictive diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies. If you decide to pursue a restrictive diet, work with a registered dietitian to create a meal plan that meets your specific needs. This passage is about a child.
Vitamin supplements and probiotics.There is no scientific evidence that vitamins and other supplements help with symptoms related to autism spectrum disorder, and they can be expensive. Talk to your doctor about the best way to provide vitamins and supplements to your child in a safe and affordable way.
Acupuncture.There is not enough research to show that acupuncture is effective for treating autism spectrum disorder symptoms.
Some complementary and alternative treatments are not recommended for autism spectrum disorder because there is not enough evidence that they are beneficial. These treatments could be dangerous if used incorrectly. Some examples of such treatments include:
Chelation therapy. This treatment is said to remove heavy metals from the body, but there is no scientific evidence that it is effective for people with autism. There is potential for serious harm if chelation therapy is used in children with autism. The therapy has stopped working.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatments.Hyperbaric oxygen is not an effective treatment for autism spectrum disorder symptoms, and it is not approved by the FDA for this use.
IVIG infusions are treatments that use injections of antibodies.There is no evidence that using IVIG infusions improves autism spectrum disorder, and the FDA has not approved immunoglobulin products for this use.
Coping and support
Raising a child with autism spectrum disorder can be tiring and challenging. These suggestions may help:
Find a team of trusted professionals. A team coordinated by your doctor may include social workers, teachers, therapists, and a case manager or service coordinator. These professionals can help identify and evaluate the resources in your area and explain financial services and state and federal programs that are available to children and adults with special needs. Disabilities can occur.
Make a record of each visit to a service provider.Your child may have visits from many people involved in his or her care. Keep a file of these meetings and reports to help you decide about treatment options and track the progress of your child.
Learn about the disorder.There are many myths and misconceptions about autism. By learning the truth, you will be better able to understand your child's attempts to communicate.
Take time for yourself and your family.Caring for a child with autism spectrum disorder can be stressful. To prevent burnout, try taking time out to relax, exercise, or enjoy your favorite activities. Spend time alone with your other children and plan special dates with your spouse.Spend time with — even if it's just watching a movie together after the children go to bed.
Look for other families who have a child with autism spectrum disorder.Parents and siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder may find helpful advice in other families that are struggling with the challenges of the disorder. Some communities have support groups for parents and siblings.
Talk to your doctor about new technologies and therapies that are available to you.There are many ways to help children with autism spectrum disorder. See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for helpful materials and links to resources.
Preparing for your appointment
Your child's health care provider will check for developmental problems at regular checkups. If you have any concerns during your appointment, mention them. If your child shows any signs of autism spectrum disorder, you'll likely be referred to a specialist who can treat your child for the disorder. An evaluation is a process of judging something.
If possible, bring a family member or friend to the appointment so that they can remember the information and be supportive.
Here is some information that will help you prepare for your appointment.
What you can do
Before your child's appointment, make a list of: -What you will need to bring to the appointment (like their medical records, picture, etc.) -What you would like to ask the doctor (like if they are having any problems, what they eat, etc.)
Any medications,This list includes all of the vitamins, herbs, and over-the-counter medicines your child is taking and the amounts they are taking.
Any concerns you haveThis information is about your child's development and behavior.
When your child began talking and developing milestones.Tell your child about when you reached your milestones, too.
A description of how your child plays and interacts with other children their age.With other children, siblings, and parents, play together.
QuestionsTo make the most of your visit to the doctor, ask the doctor to focus on your child's needs.
In addition, it may be helpful to bring:
Please include any observations you had from other adults or caretakers while you were working with the plant.If your child has been evaluated by other health professionals, you can bring that information with you. For example, if your child is being babysat by relatives or a teacher's family member, it would be helpful to have that information.
This document will keep track of your child's developmental milestones.Make a book or calendar for a baby if you have one.
A video of your child's unusual behavior or movements. if you have one.
Some questions you may want to ask your child's doctor include:
What might cause my child to have autism spectrum disorder?
Is there a way to confirm the diagnosis?
Can my child have autism spectrum disorder? Is there a way to tell how severe the condition is?
What will happen to my child over time?
What kind of special care do children with autism spectrum disorder need?
What kind of medical care will my child need on a regular basis?
What kind of support is available to families of children with autism spectrum disorder?
What is autism spectrum disorder? How can I learn more about it?
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask them during your appointment.
What to expect from your child's doctor appointment. Your child's doctor will ask about your child's health and may perform a physical exam, ask about your child's school performance, and/or order tests.
Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Be prepared to answer them so that you can have time to go over any points that are important to you. Your doctor may ask: -What are your child's symptoms? -Have you been doing any new activities lately? -Did anything change in your home or lifestyle recently?
Why did you come today?
What are the symptoms you have noticed in your child and have others noticed?
Has this behavior been happening frequently or intermittently?
Do your child have any other symptoms that you can't seem to connect to autism spectrum disorder, such as stomach problems?
Do any of the things you are trying seem to help your child's symptoms?
What should I do if my symptoms seem to worsen?
When did your child first start moving around on their own, crawling or walking? When did your child first say his or her first words?
What are some of your child's favorite activities?
How does your child interact with his or her siblings and other children? Does your child pay attention to others, make eye contact, smile, or want to play together?
Can your child have a family history of autism spectrum disorder, language delay, Rett syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or anxiety?
What type of education will your child have? What services does he or she receive through school?
General summary
Do you feel like you are just different, more so than most of your peers? Do you often feel socially isolated out of place or simply wonder why people behave a certain way and have difficulty understanding what motivates them? If this sounds familiar at all it could be that you have Asperger Syndrome (AS) also known as high-functioning autism Being on the autism spectrum can make socializing difficult When interacting with others those with AS find that they do not share common interests or easily understand sarcasm and jokes Emotions may seem to be expressed differently from how they are intended People with AS.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a type of developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. People with ASD often have trouble with social interaction and communication. They may also have restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. The term ‘spectrum’ in ASD refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that begins in early childhood and lasts throughout a person's life. It affects how a person acts and interacts with others, communicates, and learns. People with ASD often have problems with social, emotional, and communication skills. They might repeat certain behaviors and might not want to change their routine.
