Approximately 1 in 59 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. At Elk Grove Pediatrics, Rahat Saied, MD, has extensive experience helping both parents and children negotiate the often confusing world of autism. If you’re in the Elk Grove, California, area, call or use the online booking feature to learn more.
Autism is clinically known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) because the effects of the developmental disability can vary greatly, from high-functioning forms to disabling conditions that render a child unable to communicate with the world around them.
At its core, autism causes difficulties with socialization, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. Again, its effects on a child will be unique to that child, which is why the medical community refers to the condition as a “spectrum,” which accounts for the many subtypes.
Autism affects boys in far greater numbers than girls, by 4 to 1, and it occurs in children and adults of all ethnic and racial groups.
The exact cause of autism is unknown, but medical researchers believe that genetics and environment play key roles.
Autism is an extremely difficult condition to define, with no set checklist of symptoms, as each child displays the disability in their own way. That said, the signs of autism usually come on around the age of 3, and typically include:
As autism progresses, your child may lose communication skills and become increasingly difficult to interact with.
Because autism can fall anywhere along a spectrum, it takes an experienced medical professional to identify the early signs. At Elk Grove Pediatrics, Dr. Saied has the necessary expertise to help you figure out whether autism may be at the root of your child’s developmental difficulties.
There is no cure for autism, but the evidence is mounting that early intervention gives your child the best chances for coping with, and managing, the condition. Through specialized services, such as speech therapy, Dr. Saied helps you find the best course of action and resources for your child.
To learn more about autism, please call Elk Grove Pediatrics or use the online scheduling tool to set up an appointment.
