What to do if you suspect your child may be on the autism spectrum

What to do if you suspect your child may be on the autism spectrum

These days, if you are a parent or grandparent, you may be familiar with the term 'on the spectrum,' referring to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Perhaps your neighbor's child has been diagnosed with the condition, or you may have found yourself looking at your own child's interactions with the world and other people and wondered if you should seek professional help.

Considering the steady flow of information-and misinformation-about the condition, it's not surprising that you may be asking yourself whether your child's failure to make eye contact or sensitivity to loud noise means you should have them assessed.

"Early signs of autism spectrum disorder that parents or guardians may have concerns about can include unusual hand movements or flapping, repetitive movements, such as spinning or rocking, noise sensitivity, a hyper focus on specific interests, poor eye contact or difficulties with social cues and interactions," said Jennifer Berrick, MD, a pediatrician and owner of Star and Fox Pediatrics in South Yarmouth, who offers autism testing in her office.

She suggested that if parents observe unusual movements or sensitivity, they should first turn to their pediatrician for guidance.

"Your pediatrician can help guide you and determine if there are concerns for an autism spectrum disorder," she said. "If your pediatrician feels an assessment is appropriate, they can help connect patients with the right specialists to evaluate ASD. At Star and Fox Pediatrics, we offer ASD testing for 2 to 8 years of age."

The ideal age for testing is 18-30 months, in order to maximize access to services early, she added.

What to Know About ASD

There are some vital things to remember about a child who is dealing with ASD, according to Dr. Berrick.

"A child who is living with ASD perceives and understands the world around them differently. They may react more noticeably, including having strong reactions to external stimuli, or communicate differently," she said. This is because the brain perceives things in a different way, she said, noting that understanding the root of a child's interactions with the world can help parents cope more effectively.

ASD can range from very mild to more severe (thus the term 'spectrum') and can impact both children and adults. The condition can reach into every corner of a person's life, influencing communication and social interaction, while also amplifying sensitivity to different stimuli, explained Dr. Berrick.

"It is important to remember that each presentation within the spectrum is individual, meaning each person's presentation will be different and that not all people with autism will have the same symptoms," she added. 

The wide-ranging impact of ASD can have a staggering effect on a person with the condition. And when the person on the spectrum is a child, the condition affects the whole family.

Currently, 3.1 percent or one in 31 children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with the disorder. That number has risen steadily in recent years, thanks to better awareness, improved screening and broader criteria for making a diagnosis.

Causes and Symptoms

Causes of ASD can range from genetic disorders such as fragile X syndrome and Rett Syndrome to environmental and pregnancy factors, including premature birth and parental age.

Symptoms may include:

• Social and communication signs like avoiding eye contact, not responding to their name by 12 months of age, lack of gestures such as pointing and waving, difficulty understanding other people's feelings and intense focus on narrow topics.
• Sensory sensitivities such as oversensitivity to loud noises, bright lights and textures and under-sensitivity to pain, cold or heat.

Testing and Treatment

Autism spectrum disorder testing at Dr. Berrick's office is done using the CARS-2 diagnostic test, which is a validated and standardized diagnostic test. The testing is done using a combination of a questionnaire that parents fill out, interview with the parents or caregivers, and direct observation and interaction with the child by the doctor. The parents or caregivers return for a second visit, at which time, the results, and when appropriate, treatment options, referrals, and available services, are discussed. It's important to note, she said, that the screening is an assessment utilizing self-reporting and observations, and as such, as the child ages, the presentation of their symptoms may change necessitating repeat testing.

Dr. Berrick encourages patients to see a developmental behavioral pediatrician for long term management for kids who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. 

There are a wide range of therapies that can help to improve communication, reduce sensory sensitivities, help better understand the world, and teach new skills. Early access to these resources and skills can help encourage better long-term success for patients with autism. 

"Diagnosing and treating ASD as early as possible can make a difference in your child's life by significantly improving access to proven therapies, treatments and resources that can help set your child up for success. It's important to remember that many amazing and successful people have been diagnosed as having autism spectrum disorder and the recognition, diagnosis, and access to services can make an important difference in a child's life." Dr. Berrick concluded.