What is Autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a common but serious developmental disorder impacting the nervous system. It is defined by certain behaviors positioned by the severity of where they fall on the “spectrum,” thus the phrase “on the spectrum,” which is often used to define levels of autism symptoms. ASD can affect adults but usually appears at a very young age. Autism has increased at an alarming rate over the past 20 years, with more than 200,000 new cases in the U.S. each year. The range of symptoms varies widely from person to person, but ASD always affects one’s ability to communicate and interact with others at some level. There is no known single cause of autism. Autism is a life-long condition, but early recognition, along with therapy and education for the family and caregivers, can make a big difference in the quality of life for those affected.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms
Autism is defined by a set of symptoms, with the level of autism determined by the severity of these symptoms. Common symptoms include difficulty in communication, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests, and repetitive behaviors.
There are four categories of symptoms for those with autism:
- Behavioral: Inappropriate social interaction, compulsive and impulsive behaviors, repetition of movements or words, poor eye contact, tics, and even self-harm.
- Developmental: Learning disabilities, lack of speech development.
- Cognitive: Focused interest in specific situations, movements, or things, problems paying attention.
- Psychological: Depression, anxiety, lack of attention to others’ emotions.
How to Spot Autism in Children
There are signs to look for in diagnosing children with autism. Early diagnosis is important, as it can lead to earlier management of the symptoms. Signs may include:
- Issues with communication. A child may not respond to their name.
- Hysterics
- Sensitivity to loud noises and touching
- Difficulty making eye contact or holding a conversation
- Difficulty in reasoning and planning, even ignoring danger
- Narrow, intense interests
- Poor motor skills
- Preference to play alone
- Delays in speech development
Treatments and Care for Those with Autism
Treatment for autism depends on the severity level of the individual. Most treatments are therapy-based and may include anger management, family therapy, behavioral analysis and methods for teaching autistic children, behavior therapy, and animal-assisted therapy.
Levels of Autism
Autism is a Spectrum Disorder, meaning the level at which a person with autism is categorized is based on the diagnosed severity of the symptoms. You may have heard the term low-functioning or high-functioning autism, which is a reflection of these levels. VeryWellHealth offers a good accounting of the 3 Levels of Autism, described in part as follows:
Level 1: Requiring Support.
Individuals have trouble understanding and following social norms, show inflexibility with behaviors, and experience some stress during changes.
Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support.
The person with autism shows atypical social behavior, with a high interest in specific topics. They show significant stress when faced with change. This person may need special accommodations for educational assistance, and social skills will need addressing.
Level 3: Severe Autism.
Inability to use spoken language. Lower IQ level. Extreme sensitivity to crowds, loud noise, and bright lights. Shows many repetitive behaviors and suffers severe stress with change. Other physical symptoms may be present, such as epilepsy. This person will need individual educational assistance.
Autism Research Studies
Research studies are currently being conducted for Autism Spectrum Disorder at a variety of clinical sites across the U.S., including Aim Trails in Dallas, TX. These studies may be for medications to treat autism, or to determine factors that may help in the treatment of and care for those with autism. Categories of research may include:
- To learn the genetic causes of autism that could lead to treatments.
- Early Diagnosis. Ways to better diagnose autism at a very young age.
- Brain Imaging Studies. Used to see the structural or connectivity variations in patients and how these may relate to the causes of or treatment for autism.
- Environmental Factors. Finding causes in our world that may contribute to autism.
- Bio-Markers. The search for blood or neurophysiological differences, including the gut-brain connection.
- Digital Technology. The advancement of digital devices, such as wearables, will help in monitoring and intervention.
- Co-Occuring Conditions. Learning about the connection between autism and other disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, and epilepsy, to name a few.
Aim Trials and Autism Research
Aim Trials, a clinical research site located in Plano, Texas, is currently conducting research studies for pediatric autism. Mental health, very often in children, is one of our main focus points at Aim Trials. Click these links to learn more about our current Pediatric Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as a study of Pediatric Schizophrenia, Bipolar 1 Disorder, or Autism Spectrum Disorder. These studies assess the safety and effectiveness of medication in treating pediatric participants with ASD. To learn more about our studies, please complete the contact form on our site, or call (972) 325-1573 to see if you, your child, or a family member may qualify for a clinical research study, such as our current study on Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with irritability.