Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person connects, interacts socially, and perceives the world around them. Although it shows differently in each individual, there are certain popular, observable symptoms that can help spot it from childhood.
What is ASD?
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life.
ASD is not a disease, but rather a neurological condition that affects individuals throughout their lives. There is no cure, but with early detection and appropriate support, those with it can solve full, independent, and happy lives.
It happens in different degrees (mild, moderate or severe), which is why it is called “spectrum”.
Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that affects how people see others and socialize with them. This causes problems in communication and getting along with others socially. The condition also includes limited and repeated patterns of behavior. The term “spectrum” in autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide range of symptoms and the severity of these symptoms.
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Autism spectrum disorder includes conditions that were once thought to be separate — autism, Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and a form of widespread developmental disorder that isn’t specified.
Autism spectrum disorder begins in early childhood. Over time, it can cause difficulty functioning in society. For example, people with autism spectrum disorder may have problems being social or when in school or at work. Often children show symptoms of autism within the first year of life. A small number of children with the condition appear to develop as expected in the first year. Then between 18 and 24 months of age, they may lose some skills and develop autism symptoms.
There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder. But getting treatment early, during the preschool years, can make a big difference in the lives of many children with the condition.
