Symptoms of autism are usually noticed by parents and other caregivers before the child turns three years of age. Although autism is present at birth, diagnosis is unlikely during infancy, because signs of the disorder may not be apparent or may be difficult to identify.
Symptoms during childhood
Parents often become concerned when their toddler does not like to be held; does not seem interested in playing certain games, such as peekaboo; and does not begin to talk. Sometimes a child with autism will start to talk at the same time as other children the same age, then lose his or her language skills.
Parents also may be confused about their child's hearing abilities. It often seems that a child with autism does not hear, yet at other times, he or she may appear to hear a distant background noise, such as the whistle of a train.
With early and intensive treatment, most children improve their ability to relate to others, communicate, and help themselves as they grow older. Contrary to popular myths about children with autism, very few are completely socially isolated.
Symptoms during teen years
During the teen years, the patterns of behavior often change, regardless of whether autism is present. Many autistic teens gain skills but still lag behind in their ability to relate to and understand others. Puberty and emerging sexuality may be more difficult for teens who have autism than for others this age. Furthermore, autistic teens are more likely to develop issues related to depression, anxiety and epilepsy.
Symptoms in adulthood
The range and severity of symptoms can vary from childhood into adulthood. Common symptoms include: difficulty with communication and social interactions, obsessive interests and repetitive behaviors.
Studies have shown that some adults with autism need a lot of assistance, especially those who have difficulties speaking. The American Psychiatric Association has determined that at least 33 percent of adults with autism are able to achieve at least partial independence. Part- or full-time supervision can be provided by residential treatment programs.
At the other end of the spectrum, adults with high-functioning autism are often successful in their professions and able to live independently, although they typically continue to have some difficulties relating to other people.
Other symptoms
According to the Autism Research Institute, about 10 percent of people with autism have some form of special skills—“savant” abilities, such as memorizing lists, calculating calendar dates, drawing, or musical ability. In comparison, the estimated prevalence of savant abilities in the non-autistic population is less than one percent.
Many artists and musicians with unusually “perfect” skills are autistic savants, and why they possess these “supernatural” skills is unknown.
Many people with autism have unusual sensory perceptions. For example, they may describe a light touch as painful and deep pressure as providing a calming feeling. Others may not feel pain at all. Some people with autism have strong food likes and dislikes and unusual preoccupations. Sleep problems occur in about 40 percent to 70 percent of people with autism.
Early intervention
According to Autism Speaks, an organization devoted to global awareness of autism, “there is no debate or doubt: early intervention is your child’s best hope for the future. Early attention to improving the core behavioral symptoms of autism will give your child several important benefits that you will not gain if you take a wait-and-see approach until your child enters school at age four or five.”
April is Autism Awareness month. Show your kindness and compassion if you know or meet someone with autism.