When a doctor first mentions that your child has autism, the first response can be shock and the need to get a second, third, or even fourth opinion. Autism is a difficult condition to identify since each child is unique. However, there are a few key ways for clinicians to reliably diagnose autism in infants, and if your baby or toddler exhibits any of these symptoms of autism, you should promptly contact your pediatrician to express your concerns.
Autism is a condition that develops in a child at a young age, as opposed to a disorder that develops in an older child. It is normally discovered before the age of three, and in many cases, even earlier. Autism commonly manifests itself in the form of delays or deterioration in speech expression. Another early indicator is odd activity in group play and other social settings. A comprehensive physical evaluation and a study of family history by a doctor is the first step in diagnosing autism. While your child’s regular pediatrician would be able to detect odd behaviour, you should have your child tested by a specialist who specialises in autism and other related disorders to ensure your child is correctly diagnosed.
Hearing tests are the next step. Language and social ability delays may be caused by a lack of auditory sensations. There are two types of auditory tests: one that tracks the tones a child can hear and one that needs sedation and measures the brain response to specific tones. The first approach is preferred because it does not necessitate the use of sedation. Following auditory examination, your doctor can advise you to have your child tested for Fragile X syndrome, which often co-occurs with autism. Metabolism may also be assessed. Your doctor will require a blood or urine sample to test DNA for this.
An MRI or CAT scan may also aid in the diagnosis of autism. The most important thing is to work with doctors you can rely on. Second opinions can be very useful, but once your child has been diagnosed, stick with one doctor so that care is consistent, and your child becomes used to this individual. Autism is difficult to diagnose and much more difficult to handle, so start learning as much as you can about the condition as soon as your doctor diagnoses it. If you haven’t already spoken with your doctor about your child’s unusual conduct, do so right away. Early detection of autism gives your child a greater chance of becoming a high-functioning person with many more opportunities in life.