Guest Author - Karen Huber
Autism has received much attention in the press and the medical community, especially regarding its treatment. Specific forms of autism have different symptoms and need specific treatments. Common forms of autism spectrum disorder are: classical autism, Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, and childhood disintegrative disorder. Autism spectrum disorder is usually first noticed in infants and small children and is caused by formative delays in parts of the brain, which can happen before a child is born.
Asperger syndrome, sometimes considered a higher functioning form of autism, was discovered by Hans Asperger in the early 1900s and is also classified as a pervasive developmental disorder. People with Asperger syndrome have no delay in language development and will try to communicate with others, unlike those with classical autism. Asperger's tends to be genetic and appears more in boys. Many individuals with Asperger's have above-average intelligence even though they have trouble with social interactions such as eye contact, facial expressions, and body language. They are very rigid about their routines and often speak in monotone.
Asperger syndrome is characterized by impairment in social interactions, repetitious patterns of behavior, such as hand flapping, preoccupation with narrow topics, and one-sided conversations. Failure to develop friendships is a hallmark of this condition, as those who suffer from it appear insensitive and have impaired nonverbal behaviors. Some patients display selective mutism and be very particular about with whom they will speak. When they do speak, they can be verbose and misconstrue colloquialisms, humor, or figures of speech. Speech may be incoherent, unusually sophisticated, fast, or loud. Individuals with Asperger's may have difficulties with sleep and emotional problems. They may display sensitivities to external stimuli, have delayed motor skills, and poor coordination and problems with balance.
Since there is no standardized test to diagnose Asperger's, doctors assess behaviors which include problems with eye contact, an air of detachment or remoteness, failure to respond to name, failure to use gestures when communicating, and lack of interaction with peers. These symptoms are usually noticeable in infancy, but should be obvious by age 3.
Treatment for Asperger syndrome begins with social skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication for coexisting conditions such as depression and anxiety, occupational or physical therapy, speech therapy, and parent education in behavioral techniques. Atypical antipsychotic medications, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and risperidone can reduce symptoms such as repetitive behaviors, outbursts, and impulsiveness.
To get more information about Asperger's, you can start with an Internet search. Sites like the Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support center (www.aspergersyndrome.org/) and the Autism Support Network (http://www.autismsupportnetwork.com/) are specifically focused on providing information and help for this condition. Also visit your library, local bookstore, or online bookstores to search for books.
