Diagnosing a person with autism spectrum disorder can be challenging. It's a medical condition that no blood test, brain scan or objective test can pinpoint. And because of each person's distinctive pattern of symptoms, it can be hard to determine its severity.

As people gain familiarity with autism, however, they are becoming more open to discussing the diagnosis and seeking treatment. Society is also becoming more motivated to learn about neurodivergent conditions, including autism.

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that affects how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. It includes conditions that previously were considered separate, including autism, Asperger's syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and an unspecified form of pervasive developmental disorder.

Autism affects children and adults in three areas: communication, social interaction and behaviors. Children with autism spectrum disorder may struggle with recognizing their emotions and may feel them more intensely. Regulating their anger and frustration can be difficult and lead to intense bursts of emotions. Children with autism also have higher rates of anxiety and depression.

Each child with autism spectrum disorder is likely to have a distinctive pattern of behavior and level of severity. A healthcare professional will generally describe the severity of the condition based on the person's level of impairments and how those affect their ability to function.

A child or adult with autism spectrum disorder may have problems with social interaction and communication skills, including any of these signs:

• Can't start a conversation, keep one going or can only start one to make requests or label items.
• Doesn't appear to understand simple questions or directions.
• Doesn't express emotions or feelings and appears unaware of others' feelings.
• Doesn't speak or has delayed speech.
• Fails to respond to their name or appears not to hear you sometimes.
• Has difficulty recognizing nonverbal cues, such as interpreting other people's facial expressions, body postures or tone of voice.
• Has poor eye contact and lacks facial expression.
• Inappropriately approaches a social interaction by being passive, aggressive or disruptive.
• Prefers playing alone.
• Repeats words or phrases verbatim but doesn't understand how to use them.

Awareness of autism behaviors

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the latest research from 2023 shows that 1 in 36 children was diagnosed with autism. This is an increase from 1 in 44 children just two years ago.

Children tend to become more aware of their diagnosis around puberty. Kids recognize their differences from their peers and notice their struggle to fit in. They might notice they're not being invited to participate in certain activities or being accepted in the same way as many of their peers. Social interactions become more crucial for young people in middle and high school, which can be stressful for someone on the autism spectrum.

Parents may notice symptoms early on when they see how their child's behaviors, communication and social interactions differ from their peer group. It can be challenging for parents to accept that their child is different from other children. Parents may feel guilty and responsible, even though this developmental condition has no known cause.

Living with autism spectrum disorder

As the number of people living with autism spectrum disorder increases, it's critical to seek out educational opportunities that can help with understanding autism spectrum disorder. What are the strengths and disadvantages of the child? How can that knowledge be used to strengthen the skills of a child with autism? Answering these questions can help identify specific interventions to teach skills relevant to the child.

For example, if a child struggles with regulating emotions, this can be addressed through treatment to help them gain more control over their emotions and behaviors.

No cure exists for autism spectrum disorder, and there's no one-size-fits-all treatment. The goal of treatment is to maximize your child's ability to function by reducing their autism spectrum disorder symptoms and supporting their development and learning. Early intervention during the preschool years is key.

Treatment options may include:

• Behavior and communication therapies
• Educational therapies
• Family therapies
• Medications

When you have a child or loved one with autism, the chance of them having anxiety or depression is increased. Evaluating and treating these symptoms can improve their level of functioning and their overall mental health.

One of the most critical things parents, friends or classmates of someone diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder can do is educate yourself about it while recognizing their strengths.

You can develop increased compassion for your loved ones, classmates, friends and colleagues by recognizing and understanding more about the condition. While you can't eliminate a child's autism or wait for them to outgrow it, you can minimize some of its symptoms and improve quality of life.

Janice Schreier is a child and adolescent clinical therapist in Psychiatry & Psychology in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

This article first appeared on the Mayo Clinic Health System blog.

The post Understanding autism: The path to diagnosis, awareness and support appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that affects how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. The disorder also includes limited and repetitive patterns of behavior. The term "spectrum" in autism spectrum disorder refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity.

This special edition of the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast features an #AskMayoMom episode, which is hosted by Dr. Angela Mattke, a pediatrician at Mayo Clinic Children's Center. Joining Dr. Mattke to discuss interventions and resources for children with autism is Dr. Maja Katusic a Mayo Clinic developmental-behavioral pediatrician.

Information in this post was accurate at the time of its posting. Due to the fluid nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientific understanding, along with guidelines and recommendations, may have changed since the original publication date.  

For more information and all your COVID-19 coverage, go to the Mayo Clinic News Network and mayoclinic.org.

The post Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast: Interventions and resources after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

There is no cure for autism, but early, intensive interventions can make a big difference in the lives of many children and their families.

The Autism Society has named April as National Autism Awareness month. That organization not only wants to build awareness about the autism, but also they want to encourage the acceptance and appreciation of people with the condition.

In this Mayo Clinic Minute, Dr. Andrea Huebner, a Mayo Clinic psychologist, explains what autism is and how it impacts lives. Vivien Williams reports.

Watch: The Mayo Clinic Minute

Journalists: A broadcast-quality video pkg (0:57) is in the downloads. Read the script.

One in 68 children will be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It's a condition that involves ...

"... significant impairments in social and communication skills," says Dr. Huebner. "[Kids with autism] have difficulty reading the social cues around them and then acting appropriately."

They may isolate themselves or make repetitive movements. Some cases are mild, others more severe. The good news is ...

"... we know more than we ever have before about autism and how to help children with autism," says Dr. Huebner.

Early treatment with applied behavioral analysis is key.

"Children are taught basic principles of social and communication," says Dr. Huebner.

Research into the causes of autism is ongoing. Dr. Huebner want people to know that ...

"... in general, children with autism do get better," she says. "The behaviors that are associated with autism that are so difficult for parents to manage do get better."

The post Mayo Clinic Minute: Building autism awareness appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

Autism spectrum disorder

There is no cure for autism, but early, intensive interventions can make a big difference in the lives of many children and their families.

The Autism Society has named April as National Autism Awareness month. That organization not only wants to build awareness about the autism, but also they want to encourage the acceptance and appreciation of people with the condition.

In this Mayo Clinic Minute, psychologist Dr. Andrea Huebner explains what autism is, and how it impacts lives. Vivien Williams reports.

Watch: The Mayo Clinic Minute

The post Mayo Clinic Minute: What is autism? appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

According to the Organ Procurement and Transplant Network, each day in the U.S., around 120,000 people are waiting for an organ transplant, and another person gets added to that list every 10 minutes. April is National Donate Life Month — a campaign to encourage Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. On the Mayo Clinic Radio podcast, learn about Mayo Clinic's Transplant Center from its former director, Dr. Brooks Edwards. Also on the podcast, psychologist Dr. Andrea Huebner discusses autism spectrum disorder. And Dr. K Sreekumaran Nair shares findings of a recent study that shows high-intensity interval training can help reverse the aging process at the cellular level.

The post #MayoClinicRadio Podcast: 4/1/17 appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

Listen to the program on Saturday, April 1, at 9:05 a.m. CDT, and follow #MayoClinicRadio.

Mayo Clinic Radio is on iHeartRadio.

Access archived shows.

Mayo Clinic Radio produces a weekly one-hour radio program highlighting health and medical information from Mayo Clinic.

The post Mayo Clinic Radio: Mayo Clinic Transplant Center appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

Listen to the program on Saturday, April 1, at 9:05 a.m. CDT.

Miss the show?  Here's the Mayo Clinic Radio podcast.

Follow #MayoClinicRadio, and tweet your questions.

Mayo Clinic Radio is on iHeartRadio.

Mayo Clinic Radio produces a weekly one-hour radio program highlighting health and medical information from Mayo Clinic.

Access archived shows.

The post Mayo Clinic Radio: Mayo Clinic Transplant Center / autism / interval training and aging appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Insomnia treatment: Cognitive behavioral therapy
If you're searching for a good night's rest, medication may not be the answer. See how a sleep therapist can help you get to the root of your slumber problems.

Heart attack symptoms: Know what's a medical emergency
Besides chest pain, do you know the typical signs of a heart attack? And what are the symptoms for women? Find out here.

EXPERT ANSWERS
I'm a vegetarian. Will my plant-based diet help me control my cholesterol?
Going vegetarian may help you manage your cholesterol numbers, but choose your foods wisely. Keep this information in mind.

Autism treatment: Can chelation therapy help?
Find out why chelation therapy won't help with autism and why it might be dangerous.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Appetizer recipes
Cough: When to see a doctor
Gas and gas pains: Lifestyle and home remedies
Video: How to choose a fitness ball

HEALTHY RECIPES
Shepherd's pie
Turkey bean soup
Turkey wrap
Buffalo chicken salad wrap

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Dreading a family holiday gathering?
Family tension often runs high during the holiday season. Consider this a time to set differences aside. Try to accept loved ones as they are ― even if they don't live up to all your expectations. And be understanding if others get upset or distressed when something goes awry. Chances are they're feeling the effects of holiday stress. too.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.

NOW BLOGGING
Nutrition-wise: Is yo-yo dieting dangerous?
Do you repeatedly lose weight and then regain it? That's called the yo-yo effect. Not only is it frustrating, but it also may put your health at risk.

Receive a free e-subscription to Housecall and other health newsletters.

The post Housecall: Can’t sleep? appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Belly fat in women: Taking and keeping it off
Having too much belly fat can do more than make it hard to zip up your jeans. Extra weight around your middle also carries health risks.

Forgiveness: Letting go of grudges and bitterness
Learning to forgive and let go can lead you down the path of healing and peace.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Paleo diet: What is it and why is it so popular?
This eating plan is modeled on prehistoric human diets. Is it right for modern humans?

Recurrent prostate infection: What are the treatment options?
A prostate infection that keeps coming back might require different medications.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Video: Skin cancer— How skin cancer develops
Autism spectrum disorder
Yellow fever
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

Click here to get a free e-subscription to the Housecall newsletter.

HEALTHY RECIPES
Strawberry shortcake
Tossed greens with pasta, fruit and balsamic vinaigrette
Balsamic roast chicken
Fresh tomato soup with crispy herb toasts

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Fast-food tip: Have it your way
Can fast food be part of a healthy-eating plan? Sure, if you order wisely and choose fast food only occasionally. Instead of settling for what comes with your sandwich or meal, ask for healthier options and substitutions. For example, ask for reduced-fat mayonnaise or mustard on your sandwich.

NOW BLOGGING
The Mayo Clinic Diet: Tips to save time, eat healthy and exercise regularly
It's a busy, busy, busy world. But you can still eat healthy and exercise regularly. Try these tips.

The post Monday’s Housecall appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

ANSWER: Age can have an effect on a man’s fertility. But the influence of aging on fertility in men is not as significant as it is in women. Research has shown that there may be an increase in the risk for certain health problems in the children of older fathers. The risk, however, appears to be small.

After puberty, most men produce sperm throughout the rest of their lives. That means men can conceive a child well into their later years. That said, studies have shown that men who are older than 40 tend to be less fertile than younger men. But even though older age does reduce fertility, a man’s age alone does not seem to have a substantial effect on a couple’s fertility overall. For example, studies have shown that a man’s age does not decrease the success of fertility treatment in couples who seek those services.

A man’s age at the time a baby is conceived is called his paternal age. A woman’s age at conception is maternal age. A woman’s maternal age is considered to be advanced and health risks for a baby increase after age 35. There is no universally accepted definition of when paternal age is considered to be advanced. Various studies have used cutoffs of 40, 50 and even 60 years for advanced paternal age.

There is no one clear point at which health risks for a baby start to increase with older fathers because the risk grows very slowly over time. The more times a man’s body has created sperm — a process called spermatogenesis — the more of a risk there is for chromosomal abnormalities. This may be part of the reason why there is an increased risk for certain genetic disorders, such as a form of dwarfism known as achondroplasia, in infants of men older than 40.

The potential for other possible health risks have been identified in children of older fathers, too. Research has found that children born to men 40 and older seem to be more likely to develop autism than children of men younger than 30. Children born to men 50 and older appear to be at an increased risk for the brain disorder schizophrenia when compared to children of men younger than 25.

The risk of cognitive impairment also might be higher for children of older fathers. In a 2009 study, children born to older men scored slightly lower on tests measuring concentration, memory, reading and reasoning skills through age 7.

Despite the increase in these risks, however, the overall likelihood for a baby to be born with health problems just because a father is older is still quite low.

If you are older than 40 and you are considering fathering a child, it may be useful for you to have a conversation with your health care provider. He or she can review your medical history and family history to see if there may be any concerns regarding your fertility or health risks for the baby, as well as discuss your reproductive health overall. — Jani Jensen, M.D., Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.

The post Tuesday Q and A: Small risk of health problems in children with older fathers appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.