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Understanding Common Symptoms of Autism

Uncover common symptoms of autism and gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Explore early signs, sensory sensitivities, and treatment options.

Mark Elias

June 24, 2024

August 15, 2024

Understanding Autism Symptoms

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms that affect social interaction, communication, and behavior. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early identification and intervention. In this section, we will explore two key aspects of autism symptoms: repetitive behaviors and social communication challenges.

Repetitive Behaviors in Autism

Repetitive behaviors are among the core features of autism and can manifest in various forms. These behaviors, sometimes referred to as "stimming," are repetitive movements, actions, or vocalizations that individuals with autism engage in [1].

Repetitive behaviors can include actions such as hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, or repeating certain words or phrases. These behaviors often serve specific functions for individuals on the autism spectrum. Autistic individuals have described repetitive behaviors as a way to calm anxiety, maintain awareness of their bodies, focus concentration, or handle overwhelming sensations or emotions.

While repetitive behaviors are common across the autism spectrum, their intensity and frequency may vary. These behaviors can sometimes be harmful, preventing individuals from engaging in important activities, causing self-harm, or impacting social interactions by making it harder to make friends or find employment.

Social Communication Challenges

Another key aspect of autism symptoms revolves around social communication challenges. Individuals on the autism spectrum often face difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Challenges may include grammar, the correct use of pronouns, responding when spoken to, and understanding social cues.

Two common problems with social communication in people with autism are pragmatics and prosody. Pragmatics refers to the appropriate use of language in social contexts, such as understanding and using sarcasm, taking turns in conversations, or adjusting speech depending on the listener. Prosody relates to the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech, which can impact the overall meaning and emotional expression in communication.

Difficulties in social communication can significantly impact an individual's ability to form and maintain relationships, navigate social situations, and understand nonverbal cues such as facial expressions and body language. However, it's important to note that the severity of social communication challenges can vary widely among individuals with autism.

By understanding and recognizing the symptoms of autism, including repetitive behaviors and social communication challenges, we can better support individuals on the autism spectrum and provide appropriate interventions and accommodations to help them thrive.

Early Signs of Autism

Recognizing the early signs of autism is crucial for early intervention and support. While some signs may be difficult to spot for non-experts, there are common symptoms that are more frequently observed in children with autism, as shared by Autism Awareness Australia. It's important to note that these signs may become more apparent during preschool or school age when developmental gaps between children with autism and their peers become more pronounced.

Signs in Toddlers

In toddlers, there are several signs that may indicate the presence of autism. It's essential to remember that not all children with autism will exhibit every sign, and the severity of the signs may vary. Here are some common signs to look out for:

Lack of constant interaction: Children with autism may have difficulty engaging in consistent social interaction, which may become noticeable when compared to interactions with other children.
Delayed or limited speech: Children on the autism spectrum commonly show delays in nonverbal communication and spoken language. They may have words to label things but not to ask for them, or they may repeat what they hear for a more extended period compared to typically developing children.
Repetitive behaviors: Repetitive behaviors, such as hand flapping, rocking, or spinning objects, are often observed in children with autism. These behaviors can serve as a way for them to self-soothe or cope with sensory overload.
Limited eye contact: Children with autism may have difficulties maintaining eye contact during interactions. They may appear to be less engaged or interested in their surroundings.
Restricted interests: Many children with autism develop intense interests in specific topics or objects. They may engage in repetitive play that revolves around these interests.

Signs in School-Aged Children

As children with autism grow older, additional signs may become more prominent. Here are some signs that may be observed in school-aged children:

Difficulty with social interactions: Children with autism may struggle with understanding social cues and making friends. They may have difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations and may struggle to understand nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions or body language.
Rigid adherence to routines: Children with autism often have a strong need for routine and predictability. They may become upset or anxious when their routines are disrupted.
Sensory sensitivities: Sensory sensitivities are common in individuals with autism. They may be oversensitive or undersensitive to certain sounds, textures, tastes, or smells. These sensitivities can affect their daily life and may lead to discomfort or distress.
Challenges with transitions: Transitioning from one activity to another can be challenging for children with autism. They may require additional support and time to adjust to changes in routine or environment.

It's important to remember that these signs are not definitive indicators of autism and should be assessed by a healthcare professional. If you notice these signs or have concerns about your child's development, it's recommended to seek an evaluation for a comprehensive assessment of their developmental milestones and behaviors. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in the lives of children with autism.

Diagnosis and Classification

When it comes to diagnosing and classifying autism, there have been changes in the approach over the years. In 2013, the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-5) introduced a new diagnosis called Social Communication Disorder (SCD). This diagnosis is characterized by difficulties in responding to others, using gestures, staying on topic, and making and keeping friends, without the presence of repetitive behaviors or restricted interests seen in autism.

Previously, the concept of autism focused on social communication challenges, as described by Leo Kanner in 1943. Language and communication impairments have consistently been part of the autism diagnosis. Individuals on the autism spectrum face challenges with a range of verbal and nonverbal skills, including grammar, correct use of pronouns, and responding when spoken to. Two common problems with social communication in people with autism are pragmatics and prosody.

Pragmatics refers to the appropriate use of language in social situations, such as staying on topic, taking turns in conversation, asking appropriate questions, and using a suitable tone of voice. Many autism therapies focus on improving pragmatics to enhance social communication skills [2].

Prosody is the rhythm of speech involving both verbal and nonverbal communication. It conveys pragmatic information and emotions. Problems with prosody can manifest as speaking in a monotone or exaggerating high and low pitches, making speech sound unnatural.

In terms of classification, the DSM-5 now classifies autism disorder, Asperger disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) under the single diagnostic label of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This allows for more specific diagnostic criteria and tailored treatments. In the previous edition, DSM-4, pervasive developmental disorders were divided into five subtypes: autistic disorder, Rett syndrome, Asperger syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and PDD-NOS.

PDD is often referred to as atypical autism, as individuals diagnosed with PDD tend to exhibit mild autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms. However, there is no consensus on whether ASD and PDD are one and the same, or if one has a wider scope than the other [5]. The lack of a universal gold standard for clinical diagnosis has been criticized, and further studies are required to establish standardized diagnostic criteria for PDD.

Understanding the diagnosis and classification of autism is crucial for providing appropriate support and care to individuals on the autism spectrum. It allows for targeted interventions and therapies that address the specific challenges associated with social communication and other symptoms of autism.

Sensory Sensitivities in Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities that can significantly impact the daily lives of individuals with autism. These sensitivities can manifest in various ways, including hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity to sensory information such as sight, touch, taste, smell, sound, sense of position, balance, movement, temperature, and pain. It's important to understand the impact of these sensitivities on daily life and explore management strategies to enhance the well-being of those with autism.

Impact on Daily Life

Sensory sensitivities can profoundly affect an individual's experience of the world and their ability to engage in daily activities. For individuals with autism, sensory sensitivities can lead to distress, discomfort, and avoidance behaviors. Hypersensitivity to sensory input, such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures, may trigger anxiety or meltdowns. On the other hand, hyposensitivity can cause individuals to seek out intense sensory experiences to compensate for reduced sensitivity to certain stimuli.

These sensory sensitivities can have wide-ranging effects on various aspects of daily life. They may impact attention, energy levels, emotional well-being, and overall participation in activities both at home and in school. Furthermore, family dynamics can be influenced as caregivers navigate and support their loved ones with autism in managing their sensitivities.

Management Strategies

Managing sensory sensitivities in individuals with autism requires a comprehensive approach to provide support and minimize the impact on daily life. Here are some strategies that can be beneficial:

Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists play a crucial role in assessing sensory sensitivities in individuals with autism. They develop personalized plans to address sensory challenges and provide strategies to manage and cope with sensory triggers. These strategies may include sensory integration therapy, which aims to help individuals regulate their responses to sensory input.
Consulting Specialists: In some cases, sensory issues may be related to vision or hearing problems. Consulting with an optometrist or an audiologist can help rule out any underlying issues and guide appropriate interventions.
Professional Advice: If sensory sensitivities lead to harmful behaviors or significantly impact daily life, seeking professional advice is essential. Consulting with a pediatrician, psychologist, or other relevant specialists can help in understanding the individual's behavior and developing effective strategies to support them.
Dietary and Speech Support: Sensory sensitivities related to taste, smell, and sound can sometimes cause eating issues in individuals with autism. Dietitians and speech pathologists can offer assistance in managing these sensory challenges and developing strategies to improve eating experiences.

Adopting these management strategies can help individuals with autism navigate their sensory sensitivities and improve their overall quality of life. It's important to remember that each person with autism is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. By understanding and addressing these sensitivities, we can create a supportive environment that promotes well-being and enhances the daily experiences of individuals with autism.

Language and Communication

One of the key aspects of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is the presence of differences in language use. Children with autism may exhibit distinct patterns in their communication skills compared to typically developing children. These differences can manifest in various ways, including the use of gestures and the development of spoken language.

Differences in Language Use

Children on the autism spectrum often demonstrate delays in nonverbal communication and spoken language, with almost all of them experiencing these delays. For example, they may have words to label things but struggle to use language effectively to request or express their needs.

In some cases, children with autism may exhibit a unique language style, sounding more like adults than their same-age peers. They may use formal language or speak with an advanced vocabulary. Additionally, they may engage in echolalia, which involves repeating dialogue from movies or conversations using similar tones of voice. This behavior is commonly referred to as parroting or echoing.

Sensory-Based Behaviors

Another significant aspect of autism is the presence of sensory sensitivities. Autistic children and teenagers can have heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory information, which includes sight, touch, taste, smell, sound, sense of position, balance, movement, temperature, and pain. This can manifest as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli.

Over 96% of children with ASD report hyper and hypo-sensitivities in multiple sensory domains, such as auditory, tactile, and visual stimuli. Hypersensitivity can lead to distress and avoidance behaviors, as children may find certain sensory experiences overwhelming. On the other hand, hyposensitivity can result in seeking out sensory experiences to fulfill sensory needs.

Understanding the differences in language use and sensory-based behaviors is crucial in navigating neurodiversity and providing appropriate support and intervention for individuals with autism. By recognizing and accommodating these unique aspects of communication and sensory processing, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Treatment and Support

When it comes to autism, early intervention plays a vital role in addressing the symptoms and providing support. There are various approaches and professional assistance available to help individuals with autism navigate their unique challenges.

Early Intervention Approaches

Early intervention is key to providing support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in identifying early signs of autism and seeking appropriate interventions. Common approaches selected by parents include:

Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists can work with individuals with autism to improve their daily living skills, sensory processing, and motor skills. This therapy aims to enhance their independence and participation in daily activities.
Speech Therapy: Speech therapists assist individuals with autism in developing their communication skills. They address challenges related to language development, social communication, and articulation. Speech therapy can help improve verbal and nonverbal communication abilities.
Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), is widely used to support individuals with autism. It focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors and reducing challenging behaviors through structured interventions. Behavioral therapy can help develop social skills, manage emotions, and enhance adaptive behaviors.

Implementing early intervention approaches can significantly contribute to the overall development and well-being of individuals with autism.

Professional Assistance for Sensory Issues

Sensory sensitivities are common in individuals with autism and can significantly impact their daily lives. Seeking professional assistance can provide valuable support in managing these sensitivities. Here are some professionals who can help:

Occupational Therapists: Occupational therapists specialize in assessing and addressing sensory sensitivities in autistic individuals. They can develop personalized plans to manage sensory challenges and improve sensory integration skills. Additionally, they can recommend strategies and sensory tools to promote self-regulation.
Optometrists: In cases where sensory sensitivities are related to vision problems, consulting an optometrist is recommended. Addressing any visual impairments or difficulties can alleviate sensory issues and enhance the individual's overall sensory experience.
Audiologists: Hearing checks by an audiologist can help rule out any hearing problems that may contribute to sensory sensitivities. Identifying and addressing hearing issues can positively impact an individual's sensory functioning.
Paediatricians or Psychologists: If sensory issues lead to harmful behaviors or significantly impact daily functioning, consulting with a paediatrician or psychologist can be beneficial. These professionals can provide insights into the child's behavior, offer guidance on managing sensory challenges, and develop strategies to support the individual and their family.
Dietitians and Speech Pathologists: Sensory sensitivities related to taste, smell, and sound can sometimes cause eating issues in individuals with autism. Consulting with a dietitian and speech pathologist can help address these challenges. They can provide guidance on food choices and textures and support the development of appropriate feeding and swallowing skills.

By seeking professional assistance, individuals with autism can receive the support they need to navigate sensory sensitivities and enhance their overall well-being.

Understanding and addressing the symptoms of autism through early intervention and professional assistance can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with autism. These approaches empower individuals with the tools and strategies to manage their challenges, promote their development, and improve their quality of life.