How does it manifest itself?
The key differences from other forms of autism are the absence of speech delay and normal or high intelligence. Parents usually notice not speech, but behavior in a group: the child plays nearby, not together, speaks in monologues on his favorite topic, is offended by jokes, does not understand the figurative meaning. There is often special sensitivity to sounds, light, labels on clothing, or the texture of food. Changes in the schedule cause a lot of stress, so the family gradually adjusts their life to the usual rituals.
- Difficulty maintaining dialogue and making eye contact
- Literal understanding of phrases, difficulty with irony
- Narrow and very deep interests
- Need for a consistent routine
- Unusual intonations, “adult” speech
- Clumsiness of movements, difficulties with handwriting
- Increased sensitivity to sounds and touch
Causes and risk factors
Autism spectrum disorders are formed based on the development of the nervous system, and the greatest contribution is made by genetics. We are not talking about one gene, but about many variants that affect the maturation of connections between brain areas. Factors during pregnancy and childbirth are of a certain importance. It is important to understand: the coldness of parents, upbringing and vaccinations are not the cause of the autism spectrum, this has been repeatedly verified.
- Hereditary predisposition, cases in the family
- Male gender: boys are diagnosed more often
- Significant age of parents
- Prematurity and low birth weight
- Some genetic syndromes
How to make a diagnosis
There is no blood test or scan to confirm Asperger's syndrome. The diagnosis is clinical: a specialist observes the child, asks parents in detail about early development, and studies characteristics from school or kindergarten. Structured questionnaires and scales are used. Be sure to rule out hearing loss and evaluate speech. If there are seizures, developmental delays, or unusual appearance features, additional neurological and genetic examinations are prescribed.
- Detailed collection of developmental history from birth
- Monitoring the game and communication
- Autism Spectrum Diagnostic Scales
- Hearing test, speech assessment
- Assessing attention and mood to rule out ADHD and anxiety
- According to indications - EEG and genetic testing
Help and support
Medications do not eliminate communication characteristics; they are used only for concomitant conditions - severe anxiety, depression, sleep disorders or attention deficit, and are prescribed exclusively by a doctor. The basis of assistance is educational and behavioral programs, where communication skills are taught step by step, like a school subject. A predictable environment plays a big role: a visual schedule, pre-agreed changes, a quiet corner for relaxation. It is important for parents to know what sensory overload is and to be able to help their child before the tension turns into a breakdown.
- Social skills training and work with a psychologist
- Speech therapy work on speech pragmatics
- Visual schedule and warning of changes
- Adaptation at school: place at the desk, time for assignments
- Development of fine motor skills and handwriting
- Parent support and training
- Using your child's strengths and interests
Adults with Asperger's syndrome
Some people learn about this feature already in adulthood, when difficulties at work or in relationships force them to look for an explanation. Many by this time have learned to mask difficulties, but such masking is tiring and increases the risk of anxiety and depression. A psychiatrist makes a diagnosis for an adult after a detailed conversation and analysis of childhood memories and documents. Understanding your characteristics helps you choose a suitable profession and organize a comfortable environment.
- Difficulties in interviews and informal communication
- High productivity in structured tasks
- Increased risk of anxiety and depression
- Benefit from written instructions and clear agreements
- The right to a clear, predictable work organization