User:Aclark00/Autism

Additions/edits are in BOLD.

Prevention
'''There are no known direct cause related to autism. It is known that certain genetics and environmental factors can increase risk. There is no prevention at this time. ''' While infection with rubella during pregnancy causes fewer than 1% of cases of autism, vaccination against rubella can prevent many of those cases.

Aggression -   add after communication
'''It is common for children with ASD to engage in aggressive behaviors as substitution for a gap in communication. This aggression may be directed to themselves or towards others. Examples may include, but are not limited to head-butting, biting, throwing, kicking, and punching. It is helpful for parents to recognize triggers that might be antecedents to these behaviors. There can be different causes or functions to aggression. Common functions are a routine change, overstimulation, communicating for what they do or do not want, and sleep deprivation. The cause for aggression to be more common in those with an autism diagnosis is unknown at this time; however, there are ways to decrease it. Studies have shown that behavioral therapy where the function of the aggression is determined and used to establish preventative strategies. Some medications have also been uilized to reduce aggressive behaviors.  '''

Communication '''Sign language may be used in conjunction with ABA services to provide communication in those who are nonverbal or have not developed verbal language. Sign language may also decrease undesired behaviors (tantrums, crying) by providing a way to express their needs or desires. Common signs taught are eat, drink, and more. '''

Other symptoms

Autistic individuals may have symptoms that are independent of the diagnosis, but that can affect the individual or the family. An estimated 0.5% to 10% of individuals with ASD show unusual abilities, ranging from splinter skills such as the memorization of trivia to the extraordinarily rare talents of prodigious autistic savants. Many individuals with ASD show superior skills in perception and attention, relative to the general population. '''Overstimulation from too much of a stimulus in the environment is common. It can show in the form of sensory, emotional, intellectual, and social overstimulation. The most common overstimulation is sensory.''' Sensory abnormalities are found in over 90% of autistic people, and are considered core features by some, although there is no good evidence that sensory symptoms differentiate autism from other developmental disorders.