AUTISM signs are described as problems with social communication and interaction. These are some of the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, and signs you should see a doctor.
The condition is much more common than people think, with 700,000 autistic people in the UK.
The signs and symptoms of autism vary from patient to patient, added charity The National Autistic Society (NAS).
But, the key warning signs to look out for tend to include persistent difficulties with social communication, and repetitive patterns of behavior.
People can be diagnosed with autism when they’re very young - in some cases, from the age of two.
One of the main signs a child may be on the autism spectrum is not drawing their parent’s attention to an object, said NAS. That could include not pointing to a toy or book that they want to play with.
Alternatively, they may well draw their parent’s attention to it, but later than expected.
Resistance to change, or not wanting to do something differently may also be a sign of autism, said the charity.
Some patients may also carry out activities in a repetitive way, it said. That may include lining up objects in a certain way.
“Some of the main signs that a child may be on the autism spectrum include carrying out activities in a repetitive way, for example always playing the same game in the same way, or repeatedly lining toys up in a particular order,” said NAS.
Autism signs: Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms revealed - what is ASD? (Image: GETTY Images)
These symptoms must be to the extent that they limit and impair everyday function, the charity said.
If difficulties with social interaction or social communication become evident, it may be a sign that the child is on the autism spectrum.
Biting, pinching, kicking or self-injurious behavior could also be signs of the condition.
Speak to a GP if your child is showing signs of autism spectrum disorder, said the NHS.
Autism signs: Repetitive behavior, including lining up objects, could be a sign (Image: GETTY Images)
Autism signs: See a doctor if you're worried you or your child may have autism (Image: GETTY Images)
ASD could also be diagnosed in adults if their condition isn’t recognized as a child.
Getting diagnosed with ASD helps the patient and their families to decide what sort of support they need.
There’s no cure for the condition, but there are ways to improve communication skills and help social development.
More than one in every 100 people in the UK are autistic. Men appear to be more likely to have ASD than women.
News link:https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1005983/autism-signs-spectrum-symptoms-uk-what-is-asd