Autism is basically a disability that affects the development of the children as they grow. The capability to function normally and relate with outside world is hampered with the Autism Spectrum Disorder. The disorder mainly affects social skills, actions and communication or speech of the child.

• They are very different from general people in terms of behavior, looks, learning and the way they see things around them. Children affected by the disorder can be identified within two years of their age and diagnosed after three years.
• By early testing it is possible to look for autism treatment to treat the disorder very soon. If your child suffers from autism then you need to provide him or her special treatment.
• Earlier people believed that children suffering from autism have short lifespan. But with advanced medical treatment, your child can live a normal life after certain period, and you need to start their treatment as early as possible.  

Tests to Diagnose Autism

The autism treatment basically involves different therapies, and medicines. The symptoms and behaviors of the child affected by autism vary with the extent of seriously.

• The behaviors may also change with the course of time which can put an impact the functioning of the child. Hence each person requires intervention plan to cater their needs.
• With the psychological and the physiotherapy treatment and the special learning systems, the child may recover from autism and he or she can behave in a natural way. But the process of treatment takes a long time, and you need to visit the doctor several times throughout the year. 

Things Parents can look out to Suspect:

ü  Child avoiding eye contact and prefers staying alone.

ü  Child gets upset easily with little change and has obsessive interest in one thing.

ü  Child showing unusual reactions to things around and does not point at one object. Children suffering from autism have less resistance and immunity power and if you find these things in your child, then you need to consult with the doctor immediately.

ü  It has delayed language and speech ability or repeats phrases and words.

ü  Child does not react to its name being called and shows movements like spinning or rocking the body. Apart from that, they may have some speech problems and they are unable to describe their needs properly.

The Autism Spectrum Rating Scales (ASRS) is one advance screening tests designed to find out behaviors, symptoms and characteristics of the Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Treatment Available for Autism

The early diagnosis and treatment can increase the entire functionality of the child to full potential. Intervention plans are designed specifically for the individual person suffering from autism. Each plan varies with person to person as the symptoms and behaviors are different in each child.

ü  Therapies

Specialized therapies are available to improve the general functioning of the child. Speech therapy can improve speech as well as language skills whereas physical therapy can develop coordination as well as motor skills. Occupational therapy can develop coordination and also sense of sight, smell, touch and hearing.

ü  Behavioral Training and Management

Behavior and communications can be developed using training like social skills, positive outlook and self-help. Many treatments have been designed for this purpose like Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Pivotal Response Therapy etc.

ü  Medicine

Many people suffering from autism also suffer from seizures, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depressions etc. Medicines can be given to them to treat conditions related to the disorder.

Community support and parent training can help the child to improve on different levels. There are advocacy groups who help in supporting as well as training the parent.