Autism is a typically lifelong disorder, and a person having it goes through different problems. They have difficulty communicating with people, behavioral disturbances, socialization issues, etc. 

    In addition to that, there can also be over or under-sensitivity to sounds. It is not limited to sounds; the same can be done with touch or smell as well. Spectrum word represents that autism is not the same for everyone. It is usually seen in people at around two years of age and can be three as well. 

    People with ASD have varying issues. There are multiple challenges that people with ASD face. Autism also affects how they perceive the world. 

    However, development disorders are not all about weaknesses. Autistic people have strengths as well. In Tulsa, many programs and therapy centers can help autistic people. 

    Tulsa behavioral health rehabilitation is one such center where they take care of their needs and try to make a difference in their lives. 

    Other people often misunderstand them. At other times, they may not get adequate support from different facilities, be it social care, education, or something else. 

    What are the characteristics of ASD?

    One thing to remember is the characteristics can vary from person to person. Moreover, they may not have such characteristics at all or may have many of them. 

    • Language skills can be delayed, making it challenging to communicate. 
    • Behavior can be based on impulse; inattentiveness can be there, too.
    • The person can be hyperactive.
    • Have other disorders such as seizures or epilepsy.
    • Sleeping and eating habits can be unusual.
    • They might excessively get worried.
    • Either excessive fear or no fear at all. 

     What are the signs of ASD?

    Different signs relate to social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors. We will discuss some of them for both problems. 

    • Signs related to social communication and interaction:
    1. Not keeping eye contact or avoiding it.
    2. There are no facial expressions (sad, surprised, happy, etc) even when the child is nine months old.
    3. Not responding to their name (at nine months).
    4. Not indulging in interactive games (at 12 months).
    5. Not telling what they like (15 months old) 
    • Repetitive or restricted behavior or interests:
    1. The child may get upset when a particular order of toys gets changed.
    2. The way of playing with toys is the same every time.
    3. They may repeat the exact phrases or words repetitively.
    4. They may also flap their hands.
    5. Reacting unusually to things. It can be a taste of something or smell, etc. 
    6. Some routines have to be followed every day. 
    7. Focusing on the parts of toys or any other object.For instance, concentrate on wheels rather than the whole car. 

    Are there types of autism disorder?

    Certain conditions were initially seen as separate, but in the present day, they come under ASD.

    Let us look at some of them:

    • Asperger’s syndrome:

    Children with this syndrome do well on intelligence tests. They either score average or higher than the average scores. 

    Such children face difficulties in different areas, such as social skills. They lack social skills and do not have much interest in things. 

    • Childhood disintegrative disorder

    The development looks typical till about two years of age. However, after two years, they start to have difficulties in social interaction and communication. 

    • Pervasive Developmental Disorder 

    The professional is likely to use such a term for children who have difficulty in social and interactional skills. 

    There are delays in communication skills as well. However, the category is limited to this only, and they do not fit in any other categories. 

    Seek help if you notice signs or symptoms of ASD!

    If your child or anyone you see with the symptoms of autism, get them checked by a professional.

     A professional will not only assess the person but can also educate you about the different therapies and rehabilitation centers. 

    By seeking help, you can improve the symptoms in your child and help them cope better with their unique problems.