Autism symptom definition:

Autism is a disability which is present from birth. It affects the way we communicate with other people.

Autism is also showing an inability to empathise with others and understand other's emotions.

It is more common in boys than girls and can have varying degrees of severity.

Some people with autism will go on to lead independent lives, some will always need support.

Asperger's is a milder form of autism.



Early symptoms of autism:

You may start to notice some of these autism symptoms when your baby is between 18 months to 2 years, although children vary so these symptoms may not become apparent until they start school:

• Babies generally communicate by looking at their parent's faces and smiling. You may have noticed that your baby is not interested in looking at you, and doesn't smile.

• Babies also become very attached to a parent, often their mother, and cries when she leaves the room. An autistic baby may not notice whether their mother is in the room of not.

• An autistic baby or toddler is unlikely to respond when you say their name. In fact they often don't seem to be able to hear at all.

• Most older babies and toddlers will follow your finger with their eyes to see what you are pointing at, an autistic child generally won't do that, nor will they point themselves.

• You may have noticed that your baby or toddler doesn't play with toys in a way you might expect, they may be obsessed with one particular toy and never want to let it go.

• Unlike most babies, an autistic infant is unlikely to want to be picked up and cuddled. They seem to be in a world of their own, and don't enjoy playing with others.

Autism treatment:

Get More Information on Natural Remedies for Autism and other PDDs

Although autism cannot be cured, there are a number of therapies which can go a long way to helping your child.

• Your child can undergo behavioral and communication therapy. This can help your child control some of the problem behaviors they display. They can also be taught explicitly those communication skills which they lack.

• Many parents have found that complementary therapies such as art or music therapy can help reduce their child's hypersensitivity to sound or touch.

If you suspect that your child is displaying autism symptoms, or has Aspergers, consult your doctor. He or she will be able to get your child tested by a specialist to determine whether they have the condition, and its severity.

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