treatment of autism
When
treating individuals that have autism there has been a lack of understanding
and a lack of communication. It has been seen that physicians are less likely
to screen for ASD in children from certain minority groups (Begeer et al, 2009).
Treatments for autism vary depending on the needs of that individual or child.
In
general, treatments fall into four categories: Behavioral and communication
therapy, Medical and dietary therapy, Occupational and physical therapy,
Complementary therapy (music or art therapy, for example). For many children,
symptoms improve with treatment and with age. Children whose language
skills regress early in life—before the age of 3—appear to have a higher than
normal risk of developing epilepsy or seizure-like brain activity. During
adolescence, some children with an ASD may become depressed or experience
behavioral problems, and their treatment may need some modification as they
transition to adulthood. People with an ASD usually continue to need
services and supports as they get older, but many are able to work successfully
and live independently or within a supportive environment.
What Are Behavioral and Communication Therapies for Autism?
The primary treatment for autism includes programs that address several key areas. Those areas are behavior, communication, sensory integration, and social skill development. Addressing these areas requires close coordination between parents, teachers, special education professionals, and mental health professionals.
How Do Medical and Dietary Therapies Treat Autism?
The goal of medication is to make it easier for the person with autism to participate in activities such as learning and behavioral therapy. Drugs used to treat anxiety, attention problems, depression, hyperactivity, and impulsive may be recommended. These do not “cure" autism but they can treat underlying dysfunctional symptoms that get in the individual’s way of learning and growing. There is some evidence that people with autism may have certain deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. These deficiencies don’t cause autism. Supplements, though, may be recommended to improve nutrition. Vitamin B and magnesium are two of the most frequent supplements used for people with autism. However, one can overdose on these vitamins, so mega-vitamins should be avoided. Diet changes may also help with some symptoms of autism. Food allergies, for example, may make behavior problems worse. Removing the allergen from the diet may improve behavior issues Shtayermman, (2009).
What Are Behavioral and Communication Therapies for Autism?
The primary treatment for autism includes programs that address several key areas. Those areas are behavior, communication, sensory integration, and social skill development. Addressing these areas requires close coordination between parents, teachers, special education professionals, and mental health professionals.
How Do Medical and Dietary Therapies Treat Autism?
The goal of medication is to make it easier for the person with autism to participate in activities such as learning and behavioral therapy. Drugs used to treat anxiety, attention problems, depression, hyperactivity, and impulsive may be recommended. These do not “cure" autism but they can treat underlying dysfunctional symptoms that get in the individual’s way of learning and growing. There is some evidence that people with autism may have certain deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. These deficiencies don’t cause autism. Supplements, though, may be recommended to improve nutrition. Vitamin B and magnesium are two of the most frequent supplements used for people with autism. However, one can overdose on these vitamins, so mega-vitamins should be avoided. Diet changes may also help with some symptoms of autism. Food allergies, for example, may make behavior problems worse. Removing the allergen from the diet may improve behavior issues Shtayermman, (2009).