What is Autism?

What is Autism?

Autism is a neural developmental disorder that causes social and behavioral problems. Autism is made up of a group of three Pervasive Developmental Disorders called Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome and Rett Syndrome.

What causes Autism?

Although there is no known cause for autism, there are some factors that are common among diagnoses. There are many genetic compounds that are connected to the disorder. Some genes that determine brain development may be lacking. Also, certain genes that determine how susceptible the child is to the syndrome and finally, genes that determine the way the brain cells communicate. Many believe that there are also environmental factors that could cause the disorder. Although it has not been proven, certain pollutants and viruses may be culprits.

What are the autism symptoms?

Repetitive motions, organization, lack of communication and social skills, sensitivity to touch and light and poor eye contact are all symptoms of the disorder. The behavioral symptoms are the most common. Having certain repetitive motions and routines are a common symptom that most children with autism show. Also, reacting in a negative way when their routine is disturbed is a common symptoms. Not speaking until a late age and forgetting words that they’ve known for years is a common symptom as well.

What is the autism cure?

At this point, there is no known cure. However, getting the disorder under control could bring the symptoms to a minimum and even make them disappear. Children that are diagnosed with the disorder at a younger age are more likely to have their autism controlled. They live a normal lifestyle and are able to deal with social situations. Some may even notice their symptoms completely gone by adulthood. So even though there is no cure, there is a way to minimize the symptoms.

Why is autism becoming more common?

This is unfortunately unknown. Ten years ago, the diagnosis was about one in every 10,000 births. In recent years the numbers have increased to about one in every 110 births. This is a very big difference, but unfortunately the reason is unknown. It is also unknown why boys are more common than girls. About 75% of the cases are males.