Autism: What is it, what causes it, its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods

What is autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition in which the individual shows differences in social interaction, communication and behavior, and usually shows its symptoms in early childhood. Autism has a wide range and can occur with different symptoms in each individual. That is why the term "spectrum" is used. While individuals with autism have significant difficulties in some areas, they can show extraordinary abilities in others.

What Causes Autism?

Although the exact cause of autism is not fully known, it is thought to occur as a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Scientific research lists some factors related to the development of autism as follows:

Genetic Factors: Autism is likely to occur in families. Certain genetic mutations and hereditary factors may play a role in the development of autism.
Brain Development and Neural Connections: Differences have been observed in the brain structure and neural connections in individuals with autism.
Environmental Factors: Toxins, infections and being a parent at an older age can increase the risk of autism.

Immune System and Hormones: Some studies suggest that overreactions of the immune system and certain hormone levels may be linked to autism.

There have been some claims in the past that autism is associated with vaccines. However, these claims have been scientifically refuted and it has been clearly proven that vaccines do not cause autism.

What are the Symptoms of Autism?

Symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorder may vary from person to person. However, the most common symptoms are:

Difficulties in Social Interaction: Not making eye contact, difficulty understanding gestures and facial expressions, tendency to speak one-sidedly rather than mutually.

Difficulties in Communication: Delays in language development, repetitive speech (echolalia), difficulty understanding abstract concepts.

Repetitive Behaviors: Continuously repeating the same movements or words, excessive interest in certain objects, insistence on daily routines.
Sensory Sensitivities: Extreme sensitivity to noise, light or textures or, conversely, insensitivity.

Play and Imagination Differences: Lack of interest in imitation games, difficulty in symbolic games.
Symptoms usually begin to be noticed around the age of 2-3, but in some cases, they can be diagnosed earlier or later.

How is Autism Diagnosed?

Autism cannot be diagnosed with specific tests or blood tests. The diagnosis process is usually carried out by observing the child's behavior and developmental assessments.

Parent and Expert Observation: Families' observations of their children's social interaction, communication and behavior are important in the diagnosis process.
Developmental Screening Tests: The child's age-appropriate language and social development are evaluated.
Expert Assessment: Diagnosis can be made as a result of detailed assessments made by child psychiatrists, neurologists and developmental pediatricians.
Early diagnosis can positively affect the development of individuals with autism by ensuring that they are supported with appropriate education and therapies.

Is There a Treatment for Autism?

Autism is not a disease that can be completely eliminated, but there are various supportive methods that increase the quality of life of individuals with early intervention. Treatment approaches are as follows:

Education and Special Therapy Programs: Special education programs started at an early age can help develop the social and communication skills of the individual.
Behavioral Therapies: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an effective method in increasing the social and behavioral skills of individuals with autism.
Speech and Language Therapy: Communication skills can be increased by supporting language development.
Sensory Integration Therapy: Therapies aimed at regulating sensory sensitivities can help the individual adapt to his/her daily life.
Medication: Although there is no medication that treats autism itself, medication can be applied for accompanying conditions such as attention deficit, anxiety and sleep problems.
The most effective method for individuals with autism is the early implementation of individual-specific education and therapy programs.

How Should Families Approach Their Autistic Children?

Having an autistic child is a process that requires patience and understanding for families. Here are some important points that families should pay attention to when supporting their children:

Acceptance and Support: It is important to understand the child's special needs and create a supportive environment.
Learning Ways to Communicate: Developing methods suitable for the child's communication style, such as using visual supports, can be effective.
Providing a Regular and Structured Environment: Having regular daily routines has a relaxing effect on individuals with autism.
Supporting Social Skills: Creating appropriate environments for the child to interact with their peers contributes to their development.
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