Autism: Signs, Symptoms, and Complications

In addition, people with autism seem to be more prone to other problems not listed in the diagnostic criteria. It doesn't change anything except access to treatments and services that might otherwise be out of reach. As a result, it is not unusual for children with autism to have. The National Institutes of Mental Health has created a list of symptoms that are often seen in autism. If symptoms such as these suddenly appear in a child older than 3, and those symptoms were definitely not present from an earlier age, the child would not qualify for an autism diagnosis. The child would, however, almost certainly receive a different developmental or psychiatric diagnosis. These behaviors, naturally, draw the attention of parents, teachers, and doctors.

Autism: Signs, Symptoms, and Complications

. Such children may, as a result, be diagnosed after the age of three. They may be quite loud, get upset easily, or become angry when required to take part in activities that are outside their comfort zone. The signs and symptoms of are usually seen before age 3. Because our culture accepts the notion that girls are often quiet and unengaged, these behaviors are much easier to mistake for shyness or normal social reticence. It's important to bear in mind that none of these symptoms on their own is likely to indicate autism. If you are concerned that someone you care about may have autism, remember that a diagnosis is just a way to describe a set of traits and challenges.

Autism: Signs, Symptoms, and Complications

When that happens, it's usually because they have several of the symptoms listed below. One person with autism may be very verbal, bright, and engaged, while another is non-verbal, intellectually challenged, and almost entirely self-absorbed. Most of the symptoms of autism are also symptoms of other developmental and mental health disorders. Girls and women with autism, on the other hand, tend to be very quiet and withdrawn. Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder, which means that a child must have many of these symptoms in order to qualify for a diagnosis. Symptoms of autism must be present before the age of 3 to qualify for a diagnosis.