Definition of autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that usually appears in childhood. It affects aspects of social interaction, communication, and behavior. Patients cannot understand the feelings and emotions of others well and often display fixed and stereotyped behavior patterns and strong interests and hobbies. Autism can range from mild social difficulties to highly unusual behavioral patterns and severe social impairment.
Symptoms of autism
Symptoms of autism can appear in childhood, but they can also appear in adulthood. Here are some common autism symptoms:
1. Social difficulties. People with autism are unable to interact well with others, understand their feelings and emotions, and may avoid looking at others.
2. Fixed and stereotyped behavior patterns. People with autism often need fixed and repetitive activities, such as falling into intense hobbies or persisting in certain patterns of behavior, even if these behaviors interfere with their daily lives.
3. Communication barriers. People with autism may not understand and use language, or use non-verbal forms of communication, such as gestures and expressions.
4. Sensory issues. People with autism may be overly or overly insensitive to certain sensory stimuli, which may cause their attention to focus on a particular sensory stimulus.
Causes of autism
The scientific community has not completely solved the mystery of the causes of autism, but some studies have shown that autism is related to genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors may be an important cause of autism, and environmental factors may also influence the development of autism. For example, early brain damage and chemical exposure may increase the risk of autism. In addition, the brains of people with autism have problems processing information, which can lead to impairments in social interaction, communication and other functions.
Treatment and help for autism
At present, autism is mainly treated through behavioral therapy, medication, speech and occupational therapy and other methods. Behavioral therapy can help patients learn new behaviors and communication skills, and medication can relieve some autism symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. Speech and occupational therapy can train patients to communicate with others and take care of themselves. In addition, relatives and friends who are in contact with autistic patients can also give them help and support, understand their behaviors and emotions, and encourage and actively participate in their lives.
Summary
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. The main symptoms include social difficulties, fixed and stereotyped behavior patterns, communication disorders, and sensory problems. At present, the treatment of autism is mainly carried out through behavioral therapy, medication and speech and occupational therapy. The help and support of relatives and friends is also very important. Although autism cannot be completely cured, early intervention and treatment, as well as more attention and understanding in daily life, can help patients better adapt to social life.
