Autism is a brain disorder often resulting in a lifetime of impaired thinking and social functioning. It blocks a child’s ability to communicate and express emotion. It is a birth defect presenting a life-long challenge to the child and parents. Although there is no cure for autism, improvement can occur through therapy. Doctors agree that the earlier you can diagnose autism, the better.
Symptoms of Autism
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development warns to have your child checked for autism if he or she displays any of the following:
- Does not say single words by 16 months
- Does not gesture with the hands or babble by 12 months
- Does not say two-word phrases on their own by 24 months
- Has a loss of language or social skills at any age
Some children with autism can still function at a relatively high-level. Other children display more serious impairments and may never talk.
Other Warning Signs of Autism
Other warning signs should signal that a child be evaluated for autism. They include:
- The child walks on their toes or prefers to play alone
- The child does not follow directions or appears to be deaf
- The child has poor eye contact or does not respond to their name
- The child displays odd movement patterns or has difficulty explaining what they want
- The child is hyperactive or does not know how to play with toys
If a child displays several of the warning signs, he or she should see a specialist and undergo specific testing for autism. The average age for autism diagnosis is around three years, with most parents noticing a lack of speech at age two.
Doctors do not know what causes autism, but they believe that genetics and environment play a role. While incurable, a treatment plan should target improved social interaction and verbal communication. For some children with autism, the symptoms can improve with age and some can lead near-normal lives. In adolescence, teenagers with autism can become depressed and experience behavioral problems.
Autism affects children of all races and is a common birth defect. Current estimates show that approximately 400,000 people in the United States are living with autism. If you believe your child has autism and medical negligence is a cause, contact a birth trauma lawyer. You may be able to receive compensation for your child’s condition.
