Causes of Autism
The etiology of this syndrome and its treatment are still unclear, although recent studies suggest that it is due to several factors. The main reasons can be classified as follows:
- Genetic. At present, it is believed that less than 10 genes respond to autism transmission, which act by replication. The weakness of the X chromosome is also attributed to the causes of autism.
- Neurobiological. Violations of some neurotransmitters, especially serotonin (high content of which is found in children with autism) may be the cause of changes in brain functions.
- Psychological. There are a number of theories of the socially-affective, cognitive or cognitive-affective origin of autism.
Can vaccinations cause autism in children?
Vaccines such as MMR (against mumps, measles and rubella) do not cause autism, although some parents attribute it to vaccination at the age of 15 months, because it is at this age that the children began to develop symptoms of autism for the first time. But most likely, the symptoms would manifest themselves in the absence of vaccination. Suspicions are also caused by the fact that until recently, some vaccines contained a thimerosal preservative, which in turn contained mercury. Despite the fact that in high doses some mercury compounds may affect cerebral development, studies have shown that the mercury content in thimerosal does not reach dangerous levels.
Parents of children with autism
Raising a child with physical and mental disabilities is very difficult. Parents feel guilty and confused, they are worried about the future of the child. In this case, the family doctor can play a significant role, providing both emotional and medical assistance.
The life of patients with autism
Autism is not yet cure, although due to the identification of some of the causes, progress has recently been made in the prevention of the disease. Drug therapy is designed to treat such autism-related problems as insomnia, hyperactivity, convulsions, aggressiveness, etc. Currently, behavioral modification methods and special programs are used to stimulate the development of children with autism. These programs help sick children learn to speak,
Signs of Autism in Children
- The child avoids physical and visual contact with other children.
- Does not respond to voices or other sounds.
- Does not speak or misuse words.
- Repeats the same movements - swings, nods his head, twists it.
- Looks not at the object, but on its part - for example, the wheels of the machine.
- Does not understand sign language and body.
- Refuses to participate in imagination games.
- Very concerned about the order, schedule, rituals.
- The face is inexpressive, the voice is monotonous.
- Causes damage to himself, does not feel danger.
concentrate, react to external stimuli, etc. A number of therapeutic measures are aimed at minimizing shortcomings, improving the quality of life and integrating into society. The child's parents also need help and training, as well as the means to make the necessary changes in the family's life, because autism leads to a disability that persists until the end of the child's life. Now we know when and how to treat a child diagnosed with autism.