Autism is a disorder that affects many areas of a child’s development. It typically starts at an early age, but the symptoms of autism can appear later in life. Children with autism usually exhibit difficulties with communication and social interactions. They may also exhibit difficulties with repetitive actions or other behaviors. These symptoms may vary greatly between children. If you suspect that your child has autism, it’s important to see a physician.
Children with autism may have difficulty understanding others and may be reluctant to make friends with children their age. Some may show delayed speech and use an unusual tone of voice. They may repeat words without communicating their meaning, and they may have difficulty understanding simple statements and irony. Children may also have repetitive body movements or show unusual interests, including numbers and symbols.
While there’s no blood test or genetic profile that can accurately diagnose autism, a doctor can easily diagnose autism by observing a child’s behavior and overall development. Most pediatricians will screen for developmental delays between nine and 30 months of age, so it’s important to schedule an appointment with a pediatrician as soon as possible if you suspect your child may be showing signs of autism.
Signs and symptoms of autism vary greatly from child to child, but they are most often obvious by age two. Early signs of autism include difficulty responding to a child’s name, difficulty making eye contact, and repetitive motor movements.
