Author - Dr Monika Chhajed, MBBS Consultant - Paediatric Neurologist at Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Chandigarh

Everything You Need to Know About Autism

Autism is a complex neurobehavioural condition that impairs the social interaction, developmental language, and communication skills of a child.  According to Dr Monika Chhajed, MBBS, Fellowship Paediatric Neurology and Epilepsy, DCH, DNB, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, every 1 in 59 children are diagnosed with autism these days. This steady increase is also due to the increasing recognition and diagnosis of the condition. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the better it is to provide appropriate treatments. Hence, the cases of autism should be promptly brought to the attention of the best child Neurologist in  Chandigarh.

What is Autism?

According to the best child Neurologist doctor in Chandigarh, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or autism refers to a broad group of neurodevelopmental conditions. These conditions are characterized by differences in communication and social interaction. Children with ASD often show restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour.

What are the Symptoms of Autism?

The symptoms of ASD are visible during early childhood between the ages of 12 and 24 months. The symptoms, however, may also appear earlier or later. The initial symptoms show a marked delay in language or social development. Broadly, a child with autism shows symptoms in verbal & non-verbal categories: a. Problems with communication and social interaction. b. Restricted or repetitive behaviour or activities. a. Problems with communication and social interaction: An autistic child may:

• Show trouble maintaining eye contact.
• Find it difficult to respond to their name
• Not display facial expressions.
• Do not pay interest in interactive games.
• Speech Delay

b. Restricted or repetitive behaviour or activities: An autistic child may:

• Show repetitive movements including rocking, spinning or running back and forth.
• Line objects in a strict order and get upset when the order is disturbed.
• Show attachment to a strict routine.
• Get upset over minor changes.
• Show unusual reactions to taste, smell, or sound.

What are the Causes of Autism?

Although the exact cause of autism is not known yet the best child neurologist doctor in Chandigarh states certain risk factors for ASD:

1. Having a sibling with ASP.
2. Genetic conditions e.g.- Down’s Syndrome
3. Very Low birth weight.
4.  Metabolic imbalances.
5.  Exposure to heavy metals or environmental toxins.
6. Maternal exposure to certain medications.
7. Maternal history of viral infections.

What are the Types of Autism?

The best child specialist in Chandigarh refers to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose different variety of psychiatric disorders. According to the manual, there are 4 different types of ASD. They are:

1.  Autistic Disorder.
2. Asperger Syndrome.
3. Childhood Disintegrative disorder.
4. PDD-NOS Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified.

What are the Treatments for Autism?

Unfortunately, autism has no cure. Supportive therapies, however, can help them feel better or alleviate certain symptoms. The therapies that can help your child include:

1. Applied Behavioral Analysis.
2. Play therapy.
3. Occupational therapy.
4. Physical therapy.
5. Speech therapy.

Autism is a challenging disorder that should be treated at an early stage to avoid complications. Do not, however, self-administer any medication or fall for any alternative therapies. At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced specialists backed by the cutting edge facilities. We have the best Paediatric Neurologist in Chandigarh. Do take an appointment with the best Paediatric Neurologist in Chandigarh at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Monika Chhajed, please book your appointment here.