What are the Signs of Autism in Kids

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social skills, and behavior. It is diagnosed within the first 3 years of a person's life and is characterized by a wide range of symptoms and severity.

Causes of Autism

• Genetic Factors: It was previously believed that ASD was solely caused by genetic factors. However, recent research has shown that environmental factors can also contribute to the development of autism. Babies can be born with a genetic vulnerability to ASD, which can be triggered by factors in their external environment.

• Environmental Factors: The environment plays a significant role in the development of autism. Prenatal causes of autism include the parents' ages, taking antidepressants during pregnancy, maternal infections during pregnancy, nutritional deficiencies early in pregnancy, complications during delivery, and exposure to chemical pollutants.

Signs and Symptoms of Autism in Kids

• Difficulty Communicating: Children with autism often have difficulties in both verbal and non-verbal communication. They may have delays in language development, struggle with making eye contact or using hand gestures, and have difficulty understanding social cues.

• Social Skills: Children with autism have difficulty interacting and forming relationships with others. They may prefer to be alone, avoid eye contact, have difficulty understanding emotions, and reject physical contact.

• Behavioral Patterns: Autistic children often exhibit repetitive behaviors, hyperactivity, sensitivity to sound or light, and may have feeding difficulties. They may also have a short attention span and display aggressive behavior towards themselves or others.

• Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a common sign of ASD and is more likely to occur in people with autism who have a family history of epilepsy. Seizures and loss of consciousness are common symptoms.

• Self-Injury: Some autistic children engage in self-injurious behaviors such as head-banging or scratching as a way of expressing frustration. These behaviors usually begin around the age of 4 and may continue into adulthood.

If you suspect that your child has autism, it is important to schedule an appointment with a doctor for a proper diagnosis and to seek appropriate help and support.