Understanding the Different Types of Autism
Understanding the different types of autism and its affects on families is important. With every individual’s experience being unique, learning the different types of autism – including the causes, symptoms and treatments associated – is not only helpful but essential to developing successful treatment plans. These plans can be tailored specifically for your loved one.
Whether you’re a parent trying to gain an understanding of this condition or a healthcare professional looking to expand on your knowledge, this article will provide insight into aspects surrounding various types of autism.
What are the Causes?
The exact cause of Autism is not known, but research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development.
Some risk factors include a family history of Autism, genetic mutations, and prenatal exposure to certain toxins.
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of Autism can vary, but common signs include difficulties in social interaction, communication challenges, and repetitive behaviors.
Children with Autism may also have sensory issues, such as being sensitive to noise or light.
What are the Treatments?
It is crucial for individuals with Autism to receive support from a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including paediatricians, psychiatrists, and therapists.
Families and caregivers can also benefit from support groups and educational resources.
The Different Types of Autism
Classic Autism
Classic autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder or Kanner’s syndrome, is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Classic autism affects communication, social interaction and behavior. It is seen as a range of conditions as it can have an effect on people in different ways and may show up differently in each individual.
Common symptoms of Classic Autism are:
Treatment includes behavioral management therapy and cognitive behavior therapy depending on the needs. In Ireland, there are a variety of resources available for individuals and families affected by classic autism. The HSE provides a range of services, including assessments, diagnosis, and support for children and adults. There are several non-profit organizations such as Autism Ireland, AsIAm, and the Irish Society for Autism that provide information, advocacy, and support for those on the autism spectrum.
Asperger’s Syndrome
This is a milder form of autism, individuals with Asperger’s syndrome typically have average or above-average intelligence. Asperger’s Syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects an individual’s ability to socialize and communicate.
Common symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome are:
Treatment for it includes physical therapy to help improve coordination and balance or certain types of medication. It’s important to recognize that individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome have unique strengths and abilities. By highlighting these strengths and celebrating individual differences, we can help create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.
Did You Know?
A policy advice report by the National Council for Special Education on Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Schools, noted that 1 in 65, or 1.5%, of the school-going population in Ireland, had a diagnosis of Autism.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
PDD-NOS is a term used to describe a group of disorders characterized by delays in socialisation and communication skills. It is considered a milder form of autism spectrum disorder. People with PDD-NOS often display symptoms of autism but do not meet the criteria for a specific diagnosis of autism, Asperger syndrome, or another pervasive developmental disorder.
Common symptoms of PDD-NOS are:
However, the symptoms of PDD-NOS can vary widely from person to person, making it difficult to diagnose.
It is important for individuals with PDD-NOS to receive early intervention and treatment to help them overcome their difficulties. Treatment typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy, speech therapy and social skills training.
Rett Syndrome
Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic neurological disorder that affects the development of the brain. It primarily affects females.
Common symptoms of Rett’s Syndrome are:
There is currently no cure for Rett Syndrome, but there are supportive treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment can involve medication for breathing irregularities and motor difficulties. Occupational therapy and physical therapy to prolong mobility can also be used as treatment.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
This is a rare condition that affects children between the ages of 3 and 4 years old. Children with this disorder will experience a significant loss of language, social, and motor skills that have been previously acquired.
Common symptoms of Childhood Disintegrative Disorder are:
Treatment includes anti-seizure medications, behaviour therapy and speech and language therapy.
It is important to note that autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that every individual with autism will have unique symptoms and characteristics. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential in helping individuals with autism achieve their full potential.
Understanding the various types of autism is important as it can provide insight into what someone with autism experiences. As technology evolves and medical science progresses, the definitions and categories of autism will likely expand and become even more finely tailored. While no two people with autism are the same, knowing the different types of autism is a valuable step toward helping others who have it and understanding it as best we can.
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