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Warning Signs of Autism in Infants

The underlying cause of autism remains a mystery. Researchers and doctors believe that there is a genetic link to the disease as well as other variables such as immune system abnormalities and environmental factors that contribute to the development of autism. Despite an unknown cause, major medical advancements have been accomplished toward the treatment and maintenance of the disease. Doctors are certain that early intervention is the best means for managing the disease and are now equipped with the information necessary to diagnose early warning signs of autism in infants and begin intervention programs in order for patients to thrive and develop despite the setbacks of autism.

  1. Signs/Symptoms

    • Autism is characterized by abnormal development and behavior. Significant warning signs of autism in infants to look for include the absence of joyful expressions such as smiling by the age of 6 months, failing to exchange facial expression sounds and smiles with others by the age of 9 months, the inability to babble, wave, reach, point and reach for objects by the age of 12 months, absent vocabulary development by 16 months, inability to create two-word phrases by 24 months and a regression of speech and social skills at any age. Children with autism might also have severe sensory issues that might be noticeable as an infant. Sensory issues to look out for include over- or under-reaction to taste, touch and sound.

    Treatments

    • If your infant begins to show any warning signs, immediately seek an evaluation from a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, psychiatrist or psychologist specialized in diagnosing and treating autism. Infants who are suspected to have autism will first receive a thorough physical evaluation and possible MRI examinations and hearing tests. If language development issues have arisen, evaluation by a speech pathologist might also be required. Once a positive diagnosis has begun, a team of doctors and clinicians will develop an intervention education program for your infant. The most important treatment for autism is that infants and children affected by the disease are taught and learn how to communicate and interact with those around them successfully.

    Prevention/Solution

    • You likely can't prevent the development of autism in your child. Although recent arguments have been presented that mercury levels in state-required vaccinations are to blame as well as pesticides in lawn treatments, chemicals found in soaps and additives and dyes in foods, there is not enough evidence to prove such a case. The best defense against the disease is early intervention if your infant begins showing delayed or regressed development.

    Misconceptions

    • Autism affects each child in a specific manner, and the symptoms for each case can range from mild to severe. It is a misconception that all children with autism do not smile or respond emotionally to those around them. Many children do smile, yet suffer from sensory or vocabulary issues.

    Considerations

    • Parents who are concerned that their infant is showing signs of autism or that have children that have been diagnosed with autism, should use the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American Academy of Pediatrics autism awareness website campaign to research the disease, find local resources for treatment and discover how to effectively deal with the disease. Infants and children diagnosed with autism do not "outgrow" the disease but can experience reduced symptoms as they develop and receive recommended treatment.

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