Autism Emily Hendrickson

What is Autism? Developmental disability that develops within first 3 years of life Spectrum Disorder – people react differently to it Affects a person’s ability to communicate with others There is no one single cause Not contagious “Sensory overload” – sounds seem louder, smells seem stronger, lights seem brighter

How Does Autism Affect an Individual? 1.5 million Americans today may be affected with Autism. Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder, meaning people who have it may have trouble with communication as well as social skills. Other physical ailments - allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, viral infections, feeding disorders, sleeping disorders, and more. Boys 4 times more likely to have autism, but girls’ symptoms are more severe

Causes/Diagnosis No known single cause Abnormalities in brain structure or function Diagnosis based on clinical observations and standardized tests – no medical test for autism Behaviors associated with autism can be shared with other conditions and disorders as well, so medical tests for the other conditions and disorders usually ordered too.

Who Can Get Autism? Typically appears within first 3 years 1 in 150 people Can affect any family and any child 4 times more prevalent in boys than girls

Treatments With early treatment, many symptoms related to autism can be greatly improved Many options for treatments: Dietary intervention, vitamins and supplements, physical therapy, speech therapy, vision therapy, dog companions, and more

Current Research Numerous theories being tested about how autism develops: Clusters of unstable genes interfere with brain development Problems during pregnancy Viral infections Exposure to environmental chemicals

Why is Autism so Important? 1 in 150 people affected Very treatable with the right tools Clinical observations and standardized tests People with autism have other physical ailments Research – numerous theories being tested

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