Do you sometimes feel that your child is behaving a little differently than other children? Maybe he doesn't like to look at others and talk to them, or play with them. Or does he have a habit of repeating the same things? It's normal for a parent to feel a little scared and worried when you see things like this. Today we are going to talk about a condition that shows these symptoms, which was previously known in medical science as 'Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), but is now known as ' Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Don't be afraid even though the name has changed, let's understand this simply.
Why these two names? What is the difference?
In the past, before 2013, doctors used the term 'Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD)' to describe certain developmental delays in children. These included difficulties in socializing and communicating with others, a reluctance to adapt to changes in routine, and repetitive movements or behaviors.
But under this category of PDD, there were several other subcategories such as `(Asperger's syndrome)` and `(Autistic disorder)`. Because of this, children with the same symptoms were diagnosed with different names. This was a bit confusing for parents and doctors alike.
Simply put, to eliminate this confusion and make diagnosis clearer and more accurate, all of these conditions were brought under one name: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
So if you see the word PDD in an old book or article, remember that it refers to the same condition that is now called ASD.
What are the symptoms of this condition?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is not a condition that affects everyone in the same way. It is like the colors of the rainbow, spread across a spectrum. This means that some children's symptoms may be very subtle, while others may have very obvious symptoms.
The table below can explain this further.
| Problem area | Frequently seen symptoms |
|---|---|
| Social communication and interaction (Social Communication and Interaction) |
|
| Restricted or repetitive behaviors (Restricted or Repetitive Behaviors) |
The important thing is that some people with this condition can study well, have jobs, and live independently. We may not even realize they have this condition. Also, some people may have severe disabilities and need adult help.
What are the causes and risk factors for this condition?
"Why did this happen to my child?" This is a question many parents ask themselves. The most important thing to remember first is that ASD is not caused by parental error, child rearing errors, or vaccinations.
Scientists have not yet discovered the exact cause of ASD. However, genetics have been identified as a major factor affecting this. However, this is not just a single "autism gene". This risk can be increased by a combination of genetic factors and environmental factors .
Factors that may increase the risk:
- Family history: If one child in the family has ASD, the risk of the next child having it is slightly increased.
- Premature birth: Babies born before 37 weeks are at higher risk, especially those born very early.
- Age of parents: Some studies have shown that the risk increases slightly with the age of either or both parents.
- Other medical conditions: Certain genetic conditions increase the risk of ASD. For example:
- Fragile X syndrome
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Down syndrome
- Rett syndrome
How to recognize this condition?
ASD cannot be diagnosed with a single blood test or brain scan. It is a comprehensive evaluation by a team of specialists. Your child's pediatrician will usually refer you to a specialist if they have any concerns during your child's checkups at 9, 18, and 24/30 months.
Doctors who have expertise in this are:
- Child Psychiatrists
- Child Psychologists
- Pediatric Neurologists
- Developmental Pediatricians
They arrive at an accurate diagnosis by observing the child's behavior, asking the parents about the child's behavior and communication patterns, and conducting several standard assessments.
The most important thing is to identify this condition as early as possible, because the sooner the necessary treatment and therapies are started, the better the child's future will be.
What are the treatments?
There is no cure for ASD yet. However, there are many effective treatments and therapies that can help manage the condition, develop the child's abilities, and make everyday life easier for the child .
Pharmacological treatment
Although there is no cure for ASD, medications are used to treat other conditions that may be associated with it. For example, many children with ASD also have conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety. Medications for these conditions can help some children. Doctors may also prescribe medications such as risperidone and aripiprazole to control behaviors such as excessive anger and self-harm. All of these medications should only be given under the supervision and recommendation of a specialist.
Therapy
More important than medication are these therapeutic treatments, which vary depending on the child's needs.
- Speech Therapy: Develop the ability to speak and communicate with others.
- Occupational Therapy: Helping people perform daily tasks such as dressing, eating, and writing independently.
- Physical Therapy: To improve body movement and balance.
- Behavior Therapy: To control inappropriate behaviors and develop good behaviors. ``Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)`` is a well-known method that falls under this category.
- Social Skills Training: Teaching how to mix with others, make friends, and behave in society.
Take-Home Message
- 'Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)' is an old name used for the condition now known as 'Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).'
- ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition related to brain development, not a mental illness or a result of parental fault.
- This condition is a 'Spectrum', meaning it's a wide range with varying levels of abilities and challenges. Every child is different.
- If you have any concerns about your child's behavior, talk to your pediatrician immediately. Early diagnosis is very important.
- Although this cannot be "cured", various therapeutic methods and, if necessary, medication can give the child the skills needed to live a successful and happy life.
- Respect your child's identity and abilities. They see the world differently. Give them the love, support, and guidance they need.
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