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Autism or autism spectrum disorder is a condition where the development of the person's communication, social interaction and behavior is affected to some degree. The identification of autism is done by the pediatrician or general practitioner, who can refer the person for further tests with other professionals, such as the speech therapist and psychotherapist, in order to have an accurate diagnosis with the person's level of autism, so that this is done the most appropriate treatment.
Autism is not a disease, it is a different way of expressing and reacting with oneself and with society, and it does not tend to get worse with age, however, the sooner the diagnosis is made and the individualized treatment starts. , the better the person's chances of having a better quality of life.
How to identify autism
The autism spectrum disorder can be identified by the doctor through some signs that the person may show. However, for the diagnosis of autism to be made, it is necessary that the person has the following characteristics:
1. Change in the development of communication
In autism one of the strongest characteristics is the change in the development of communication, where the person may be delayed in the beginning of speech or complete absence, difficulty in forming sentences and asking for what he wants. In addition to not responding when called or having the tone of voice that may sound like singing or similar to a robot.
2. Difficulty or absence of social interaction
The difficulty of social interaction can arise from the first months of life, such as avoiding looking into people's eyes or directly in the face, absence of facial expressions, showing no interest in being with other people or not looking for anyone when alone .
3. Changes in behavior
Behavioral changes appear on several levels, ranging from repetitions such as clapping or walking from side to side for no apparent reason, to the non-acceptance of new routines. As the different behavior can cause problems in others, there may be episodes of excessive irritation or uncontrolled crying, for not feeling comfortable in the environment.
Better understand what are the characteristics of autism.
How to treat autism
The treatment of autism, whether in any degree, to be effective involves the participation of the family, and it is important that they know what the limitations and capacities of the person with autism are, as the therapies involved in the treatment often remain at home since the treatment is individualized for each person in a different way, with the aim of improving the aspects in which they have difficulties.
Thus, treatment may involve the participation of professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, pedagogues, speech therapists, music therapists, among others. However, because it has different levels and characteristics, there is currently no standard treatment or cure for autism. In addition, in some cases it may be necessary to use medication during treatment, as some people may show signs of extreme irritability, lack of concentration and anxiety. See what are the main treatments for autism.