Common Issues Associated With Autism
The autism spectrum disorders have been known to have other issues and conditions associated with them. Different individuals with autism may have widely different reactions or problems on very different levels; not every individual with autism will necessarily have one of these problems or disorders. Many people will not experience any of these issues. Here you will find some of the issues commonly associated with autism and ways to alleviate them.
Sensory Problems
Many children with autism are very aware of certain sounds, textures, tastes, or smells -- sometimes to the point of pain. This means that autistic individuals may find the feeling of clothing against their skin to be almost unbearable, or may find certain sounds to be so loud or intense that they cannot listen to that sound without discomfort, even if it appears to be a normal volume to those not affected with autism.
This sensory awareness occurs because the brains in autistic patients seem unable to balance sensory information. In addition to being very sensitive to certain senses, autistic individuals might be extremely dismissive of, or disconnected from, other senses. They may not notice cold or pain in certain situations.
Mental Retardation
Some degree of mental dysfunction is common in people with autism. Often times, many areas of ability are completely normal, while others are very weak. For example, a child with autism may test very well in regards to visual skills, but perform poorly in the language section of the test.
Seizures
Seizures are a common problem for autistic children and adults. Seizures often emerge either during early childhood or when autistic individuals enter their teens. According to AutismHelp.org, one in four children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder will develop seizures. Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain (lack of sleep or a high fever can also contribute to seizures), and can result in the following:
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Convulsions
- Unusual movements
- Staring spells
There are many medicines available that can help control seizures.
Fragile X Syndrome
Fragile X syndrome is a disorder caused when part of the X chromosome, one of the pair of chromosomes every child inherits from their parents, is defective in that it appears pinched or “fragile” when viewed under a microscope. Approximately two to five percent of people with autism have fragile X syndrome.
