Can autism be cured

January 12, 2023

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Overview

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs speech and behaviour. “neurodevelopmental” denotes a connection between the condition and the nervous system’s growth.

The symptoms typically show in infancy, usually between 12 and 24 months. However, a diagnosis cannot be made right once, mainly if the symptoms are mild.

Doctors refer to ASD as being on a spectrum rather than having consistent symptoms that everyone with the disorder will experience because symptoms differ from person to person.

The majority of experts concur that autism cannot be cured. Because of this, a lot of them treat ASD in a method that emphasises symptom management or the growth of abilities and support, which includes behavioural, psychological, and educational therapy.

What are the ASD treatments available?

The importance of beginning supportive therapy as soon as feasible is acknowledged by doctors who treat ASD.

The objective is to improve toddlers’ social skills, lower their social anxiety, and curb their problematic behaviours. Typically, these services are provided to children up to three.

If not, all treatment plans will address and involve some form of speech, behaviour, and occupational therapy when autism spectrum disorder is mild to severe.

As kids age and start school, research has shown that many can gain from specific Individualized Education Plans (IEP), which share the same objectives of enhancing conduct, self-care, and communication.

Adolescent psychiatrists may also recommend medications to treat illnesses like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, oppositional defiance disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is frequently observed in ASD.

When it comes to specific therapy alternatives, applied behaviour analysis is one method many therapists, educational institutions, and doctors employ (ABA). In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) aim to promote healthy behaviours to teach and enhance several abilities.

Other types of treatment consist of:

Development of social skills.
Therapy for sensory integration.
Occupational therapy.

Although searching for resources might occasionally feel overwhelming, remember that professional individuals can help those with ASD and their loved ones.

How to help someone with ASD?

It’s helpful to know how you can support someone with ASD while taking care of yourself and receiving professional support for them.

Here are some methods to assist, promote, and help your loved one develop their skills.

Make them feel protected and loved.
The most important aspect of providing care for someone with ASD is making them feel secure and loved.
Be in touch with your group.
Keeping in touch with your doctor, therapist, teachers, and other professionals will simplify completing your everyday responsibilities.

This may entail asking for advice on how to help your child continue to practise the skills they are learning in treatment so they can be more successful.

Think about the environmentThe severity of symptoms can vary depending on what you do at home. One tip is to maintain a predictable workplace. Another is to follow a schedule. Minimising sensory input at home, such as noise and activity level, is a good idea.
Have on-the-go routinesWhen confronted with a new circumstance, plan ahead of time what might happen. This might facilitate a much easier transition. Bring familiar, cosy stuff with you.
Slow it downProvide information in a clear, concise manner. You should strive to be precise, clear, and concrete. Allow them time to answer.
Promote constructive behaviourTo assist your child with timetables and daily duties, think about utilising visual aids. The behavioural strategies they are acquiring in therapy should be reinforced. We may celebrate the excellent stuff by recognising and applauding talents and skills.
Keep up with the latest trendsArming themselves with resources and trustworthy knowledge regarding autism is a crucial step-parents may take in order to support a child with ASD.
Acknowledge neurodiversityIt’s critical to recognise and value neurodiversity when caring for a person with ASD. When you look at ASD through this perspective, it helps to eliminate the stigma that frequently goes along with the diagnosis and enables you to accept differences as normal rather than a disability.
Look for a support group for people with autismAs you connect via shared experiences, reaching out to others in the community can help you acquire new knowledge, offer advice and ideas for handling situations, and feel encouraged.
Spend some time on yourselfSet aside time each day for yourself. Self-care is essential to caring for someone, even just for a brief period to exercise, read, or spend time with a friend.

Summary

Although there is no known cure for ASD, several treatment approaches, like ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis), can assist those with the disorder in navigating their daily lives and develop abilities. Find a supportive group of experts to guide you and your child through this journey.

Which doctor to consult for Autism?

You’ll likely be referred to a specialist who treats kids with autism spectrum disorder, such as a child psychiatrist or psychologist, paediatric neurologist, or developmental paediatrician, for an assessment if your child exhibits any symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.