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Autism is a lifelong condition. Children with autism and their families may benefit from early intervention. This can include a structured, predictable schedule. With help, many with autism learn to cope with their disabilities. Most need assistance and support throughout their lives. Others are able to work and live independently when they grow up.
Interventions to help children with autism include:
Programs designed to meet the child's special needs improve the odds of learning. Children with autism may have trouble with assignments, concentration, and anxiety . Teachers who understand the condition can build on the child's unique abilities. Programs should incorporate the child's interests. Some children do better in a small-group setting. Others do well in regular classrooms with special support. Vocational training can help prepare young adults for a job.
Speech, physical, and occupational therapies may improve speech and activities. Children with autism need help developing social skills.
Professional support helps a family cope with caring for a child with autism. Counselors help parents learn how to manage behaviors.
Other treatment options include:
Lifestyle changes
Medications
Alternative and complementary therapies
There are no surgical procedures for the treatment of autism.
References:
Autism and communication. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development website. Available at: http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/voice/autism.asp#3 . Updated January 2003. Accessed September 11, 2008.
Autism Society of America. Autism 101 course. Autism Society of America website. Available at: http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_course. Accessed June 15, 2010.
Autism spectrum disorders (pervasive developmental disorders). National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-pervasive-developmental-disorders/index.shtml . Updated April 2008. Accessed September 11, 2008.
Autism through the lifespan. Autism Society of America website. Available at: http://www.autism-society.org . Updated March 2008. Accessed September 11, 2008.
Behrman RE, Kliegman R, Jenson HB. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2007.
Goetz CG. Goetz’s Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders, 2007.
Jacobson JL, Jacobson AM. Psychiatric Secrets. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Hanley & Belfus; 2001.
Moore DP, Jefferson JW. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry . 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Mosby; 2004.
Rapin I. An 8-year-old boy with autism. JAMA . 2001;285:1749-1757.
Stern TA, et al. Massachusetts General Hospital Comprehensive Clinical Psychiatry. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2008.
Wood D. Autism. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15topicID=81. Updated October 2009. Accessed December 22, 2009.
Last reviewed December 2009 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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