I-Autism ebantwaneni: Oko Wonke Umzali Afanele Akwazi

I-AUTISM is a condition that affects brain development. It affects social skills, speech, and behavior. Children may repeat the same actions. It is a common condition. In a class of 100 children, about 1–2 children may have autism. It is called a spectrum because no two children with autism behave the same. Some children may have normal or high intelligence but have trouble in communication. Many may have limited speech and learning delay. Most children prefer routine. They get upset with small changes.

Autism starts in early childhood. Signs can be noted even by one year of age. Early detection helps start treatment early.

Early signs in young children:
• Does not respond to name
• Does not ask for needs
• Delay in speech or no speech
• Uses random words while playing
• Does not look at objects when pointed out

There is a link between development and screen time. Children below 2 years should not have screen exposure. Many parents use mobile phones or TV to feed the child. This becomes a habit. The child may spend more than 60 minutes a day on screens. Screen time reduces talking and face-to-face interaction. This affects speech and social skills.

There is no blood test or scan to diagnose autism. Parents’ observations are important. There is no cure for autism. Treatment helps the child improve skills.

Main treatment includes:
• Speech therapy to improve communication
• Occupational therapy for daily skills like brushing, eating, and holding a spoon
• Behavioral therapy to improve interaction
• Parent training to support the child at home

Medicines do not cure autism. They may help with hyperactivity, poor sleep, and irritability.

Autism care is long term. With early support, many children improve in speech, learning, and daily skills. Parents play a key role. Talk to your child. Play with your child. Spend time every day. Do not wait if you have concerns. Meet your pediatrician, developmental pediatrician, or pediatric neurologist. The best time is during routine vaccine visits. Early help can change the child’s progress.

Ibonisa ulwazi oluvela Dr K Ananthanarayanan K, I-Neurologist yezilwanyana, Izibhedlele Zabantwana zaseApollo, eChennai. 

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