NS Disease 2 Autism Spectrum

Autism Spectrum

What is Autism Spectrum?

Autism is not a single disorder, but a spectrum of closely-related disorders with a shared core of symptoms. Every individual on the autism spectrum has problems to some degree with social skills, empathy, communication, and flexible behavior. But the level of disability and the combination of symptoms varies tremendously from person to person. In fact, two kids with the same diagnosis may look very different when it comes to their behaviors and abilities.

What are the symptoms of this disease?

Social Skills 

• Unusual or inappropriate body language, gestures, and facial expressions (e.g. avoiding eye contact or using facial expressions that don’t match what he or she is saying).
• Lack of interest in other people or in sharing interests or achievements (e.g. showing you a drawing, pointing to a bird).
• Unlikely to approach others or to pursue social interaction; comes across as aloof and detached; prefers to be alone.
• Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings, reactions, and nonverbal cues.
• Resistance to being touched.
• Difficulty or failure to make friends with children the same age. 

Speech and Language 

• Delay in learning how to speak (after the age of 2) or doesn’t talk at all.
• Speaking in an abnormal tone of voice, or with an odd rhythm or pitch.
• Repeating words or phrases over and over without communicative intent.
• Trouble starting a conversation or keeping it going.
• Difficulty communicating needs or desires.
• Doesn’t understand simple statements or questions.
• Taking what is said too literally, missing humor, irony, and sarcasm.

Different Types of Autism Spectrum

• Autism
• Asperger's Syndrome
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

Childhood disintegrative disorder and Rett Syndrome are the other pervasive developmental disorders. Because both are extremely rare genetic diseases, they are usually considered to be separate medical conditions that don't truly belong on the autism spectrum.

What are the signs to see a doctor?

Problems with social skills, speech and language, and restricted activities and interests. However, there are enormous differences when it comes to the severity of the symptoms, their combinations, and the patterns of behavior.