An Overview Of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), more commonly referred to as autism, is a disorder with a variety of conditions that challenge the individual’s social skills, verbal and written communication, and repetitive behaviors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates one out of every sixty-eight children within the United States is autistic. However, autism is more common in boys than in girls, affecting one out of every forty-two boys, and one out of every one hundred eighty-nine girls.

The signs and symptoms of autism become most evident between the ages of two and three, but some cases have seen patients diagnosed as early as eighteen months old.

Understanding The Common Signs And Symptoms Of ASD

Symptoms and their severity may vary from patient to patient, but there are quite a few common signs and symptoms of autistic patients. They may have difficulties with relationships and social interactions, including having trouble making eye contact, with their body language, lack of empathy, and lack of interest in the same hobbies as their peers. There may also experience a lot of struggles with verbal and nonverbal communication. It has been reported that up to forty percent of patients with autism never speak.

Other signs and symptoms include an increased focus on certain pieces instead of the whole, preoccupation with specific topics, routines, and stereotyped behaviors.

Continue reading to build on your knowledge of symptoms of autism and learn all about the causes.