Recognizing the signs of autism for early detection

Autism is a developmental disorder that usually presents in children before the age of 3.

 

Various forms of autism spectrum disorder are diagnosed most often in boys, and in one in 88 children collectively —making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.

 

The cause is unknown, but it is believed that genetics and environmental factors can influence risks for autism. Symptoms can vary greatly, but the most prevalent is the inability to communicate and interact well with others. Autism typically affects the following crucial areas of development:

• Speech Delay. The first thing parents usually notice is a delay in speech development and language skills. Children should be able to retain and use 18 words by 18 months. Some children with autism prefer to speak in unusual voices or use rhythms as if they are singing rather than talking. They will not start a conversation, nor can they keep one going. Many will repeat words and phrases but lack the ability to effectively use them.

• Social Interaction. People with autism have difficulty with social interaction throughout their lives. Autistic children prefer to be alone and will not engage in groups or imaginative play. They also do not like to make eye contact and may fail to answer to their name. Many autistic children do not like to hug, but most will hug their parents. They do not seem to enjoy the human touch in the same way that most of us do. They have a hard time sharing experiences and may also seem unaware of others’ feelings.

• Behaviors. Children with autism engage in restrictive behaviors such as developing routines and playing with things in specific ways. They have difficulty transitioning from one activity to another and become disturbed by the slightest change. Autistic children often rock back and forth or take up other repetitive movements; it may seem as if they constantly move. Children with autism occasionally possess a savant skill. Usually based on memory, it is very specific and typically includes extraordinary abilities in math, art, or music.    

Stressing the importance of early detection, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all children be screened for autism between the ages of 18 to 24 months, regardless of symptoms. A partnership between Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida and Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities offers free monthly autism spectrum disorder screenings for toddlers 18 months to 5 years.

The Mobile Autism Screening Program is the only one like it in Florida. Screenings are in different Lee County locations, one Friday each month. The next one from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 17 at the Lakes Regional Library, 15290 Bass Road in Fort Myers. Appointments are encouraged, but not required.

More information is available by calling 343-6838. Parents with any concerns are welcome to have their children screened at no cost.

While there is no cure, early intervention can make a world of difference in a child’s development as well as in their family life. Screening services offer an opportunity to determine if the child is on track developmentally or if further evaluation is needed.

If so, parents can leave the screening with a plan of action to help the child reach their highest potential. Parents are often surprised by the progress they see in their children after they begin to receive early intervention services, and these services are available at no cost for eligible children.

Sherri Campbell, ARNP, is a nurse practitioner in the NICU Developmental Follow Up Program at HealthPark Medical Center, and works with the Mobile Autism Screening Program. Her office is at 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102, Fort Myers. She can be reached by calling 343-9890

Source : News Press , 6th May 2013