a lot of work has been done to find the right type of autism support. early intervention is the best way to help any child have a chance of future success.
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) IS AN UMBRELLA TERM USED TO IDENTIFY VARIOUS NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS. THESE DISEASES ARE GROUPED TOGETHER BECAUSE THEY HAVE A SIMILAR EFFECT ON A PERSON'S ABILITY TO:
- communication
- socializing
- manifestation
- exploitation
many people with autism have some difficulty or delay in communicating and speaking. some people may need minimal support, while others may need significant support.
some people with autism may not be able to speak at all. in fact, about 25% to 30% of children with autism rarely speak (meaning they speak fewer than 30 words) or do not at all
when an autistic person does not speak, it is called nonverbal autism. you may also see it described as nonverbal autism. however, the nonverbal term is not entirely accurate because it means "no words".
even if people with autism don't speak, they may still use words (such as writing) in other ways. they may also understand what is said to them or what they overhear.
read on to learn about nonverbal autism and options for improving communication.
What are the symptoms of nonverbal autism?
the main symptom of autism that does not speak is the inability to speak clearly or undisturbed.
people with autism may have difficulty talking or having conversations with others, but people who don't talk don't speak at all.
there are several reasons. this may be because they have speech dysplasia, a disorder that affects certain brain pathways. it interferes with a person's ability to say exactly what they want.
it may also be because they have not developed verbal communication skills. as the condition worsens and becomes more pronounced, some children may lose their language skills.
some children with autism may also have echoes, which cause them to repeat words or phrases over and over again. it can make communication difficult.
Other symptoms of autism
other symptoms unrelated to communication can be divided into 3 broad categories:
- social. people with autism often have difficulty socializing. they may be shy and withdrawn. they may avoid eye contact and do not respond when called by their name. some people with autism may not pay attention to the private space of others, while others may completely resist all physical contact. these symptoms can make them feel isolated, which can eventually lead to anxiety and depression.
- behavior. the routine may be important for people with autism. any interruption in their daily life can upset or even aggravate them. similarly, some people develop obsessive interest and spend hours focusing on a specific project, book, theme, or activity. however, it is not uncommon for people with autism to have short attention spans and shift from one activity to another. everyone's behavioral symptoms are different.
- development. individuals with autism develop at different rates. some children may develop at a typical rate for a few years and then face setbacks around the age of 2 or 3. others may experience developmental delays early on and continue into childhood and adolescence.
symptoms of autism usually improve with age. as children age, symptoms may become less severe and damaging. with intervention and treatment, your child may also be able to speak.
What causes autism?
researchers don't yet know what causes autism. however, they do have a better understanding of some of the factors that may play a role.
- parental age. children born to older parents may have a higher chance of developing autism.
- prenatal exposure. exposure to environmental toxins and heavy metals during pregnancy may play a role.
- family history. children with immediate relatives with autism are more likely to develop autism.
- Genetic mutations and diseases. Both fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis are associated with a higher incidence of autism.
- premature birth. children with low birth weight may be more susceptible to the disease.
- chemical and metabolic imbalances. disruption of hormones or chemicals can hinder brain development, which can lead to changes in brain regions associated with autism.
vaccines do not cause autism.
IN 1998, A CONTROVERSIAL STUDY PROPOSED A LINK BETWEEN AUTISM AND THE MEASLES, MUMPS, AND RUBELLA (MMR) VACCINES. OTHER STUDIES, HOWEVER, DEBUNKED THE REPORT. IN FACT, THE RESEARCHERS BEHIND THE 1998 STUDY RETRACTED IT IN 2010.
How is nonverbal autism diagnosed?
diagnosing nonverbal autism is a multi-stage process.
PEDIATRICIANS MAY BE THE FIRST HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS TO SCREEN CHILDREN FOR ASD. PARENTS SEEING UNEXPECTED SYMPTOMS, SUCH AS LACK OF SPEECH, MAY BRING THEIR CONCERNS TO THEIR CHILD'S DOCTOR.
medical professionals may request a variety of tests to help rule out other possible causes. these include:
- physical examination
- blood test
- IMAGING TESTS, SUCH AS MRI OR CT SCANS
some pediatricians may refer children to developmental-behavioral pediatricians. these doctors specialize in treating diseases such as autism.
this medical professional may request additional tests and reports, which may include:
- complete medical history of the child and parents
- review the mother's pregnancy and any complications or problems that arise during pregnancy
- a breakdown of the surgery, hospitalization, or medication your child has received since birth
Finally, autism-specific tests can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Several tests, including the Diagnostic Observation Schedule for Autism, Second Edition (ADOS-2) and Gilliam Autism Assessment Scale, Third Edition (GARS-3), can be used in children who do not speak.
these tests help healthcare professionals determine if a child meets the criteria for autism.
what are the early symptoms of autism?
according to a 2007 study, about 30 to 38 percent of parents of children with autism reported that they first noticed symptoms before their child's first birthday. most people (about 80%) develop symptoms at 24 months.
early signs of autism include:
- do not respond to their names when they are 12 months old
- by 12 months of age, they don't talk or laugh with their parents
- do not point to objects of interest at 14 months of age
- don't pretend when you're 18 months old
- avoid eye contact or prefer to be alone
- the milestones in the development of speech and language have not been reached
- repeat the word or phrase over and over again
- disturbed by small changes in their schedules
- slap their hands or shake their bodies for comfort
what are the support options?
support for autism focuses on treatment and behavioral interventions that help people overcome their most difficult symptoms and developmental delays.
children who can't speak may need daily help as they learn to socialize with others. treatment for children who cannot speak will focus on helping them develop language and communication skills. where possible, healthcare professionals may also try to develop language skills.
support for autism in nonverbal may include:
- educational interventions. children with autism generally respond well to highly structured and intensive lessons that teach skill-oriented behaviors. these programs help children learn social and language skills while also working on education and development.
- Drugs. There are no medications specifically for autism, but some medications may be helpful for certain related conditions and symptoms. This includes anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. Similarly, antipsychotic drugs may help address serious behavioral problems, while ADHD drugs may help reduce impulsive behavior and hyperactivity.
- family counseling. parents and siblings of children with autism can benefit from one-on-one treatment. these courses can help you learn to cope with the challenges of nonverbal autism.
If you think your child may have autism, where to go for help
if you think your child has autism, these resources may be helpful:
- your child's pediatrician. make an appointment to see your child's doctor as soon as possible. write down or record behaviors that are relevant to you. the sooner you begin the process of finding answers, the better equipped you and your doctor will be to design a support program for your child.
- local support groups. many hospitals and pediatric offices run support groups for parents of children with similar challenges. ask if your hospital can connect to available groups in your area.