An Overview Of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Examinations And Tests

Many examinations and tests can be administered to detect ASD. Behavioral assessments in the form of guidelines and questionnaires are used to assist the doctor in determining the specific developmental delay the child may have. Some behavioral assessments include a medical history interview, the diagnostic guidelines for autism by The American Association of Childhood and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), clinical observations, and developmental and intelligence tests.

Other assessments include MRIs, physical exams, hearing tests, tests for lead poisoning, a chromosomal analysis, and an electroencephalograph (EEG). By getting an early diagnosis and treatment, children with ASD can reach their full potential.

With this in mind, continue reading to learn about the treatments for ASD.

Treatments For ASD

There have not yet been any way to prevent autism, and due to the disorder affecting patients differently, methods of treatment are on a case to case basis. However, there are many ways it can be treated with help from family and a team of professionals. Aside from the family, the team may include a therapist, physician, and a speech-language pathologist.

Some treatment methods include behavioral training and management through self-help, social skills training, and positive reinforcement. Some other treatments include medications, community support, and speech, occupational, and physical therapy. Young children with ASD should receive twenty-five hours of therapeutic activities unique to the child’s needs per week with highly-trained therapists.

Now that you know some of the methods of treatment, read further to learn all about some home treatments.