Autism

What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

ASD affects how your brain functions, particularly in social situations. People with ADS may behave in unique ways, which may negatively affect relationships with other people. 

While there’s no cure for autism spectrum disorder, treatment with Dr. Lowe helps you or your child thrive in everyday situations. See him for an evaluation if you or a loved one has ASD symptoms.

Which symptoms can ASD cause?

The following symptoms may indicate ASD:

• Being awkward in social interactions
• Monotone voice
• Lack of eye contact
• Repetitive movements, speech, or sounds
• Difficulty with social situations and interactions
• Restricted or repetitive behaviors
• Talking about a small range of topics
• Problems noticing social cues
• Difficulty understanding body language
• Lack of interest in starting conversations
• Having one-sided conversations 
• Inability to recognize sarcasm
• Not initiating social interactions
• Seeming standoffish around other people
• Lack of personal space or understanding social rules
• Difficulty building relationships with peers
• Repeating phrases or words
• Rocking or hand flapping
• Becoming upset with routine changes
• Only eating certain foods or textures
• Sounds, light, or touch sensitivity
• Difficulty switching between tasks
• Having highly focused interests 
• Preferring routines and familiar patterns

Strengths of people with autism often include thinking outside the box, having a strong sense of right and wrong, being honest and direct, and maintaining good nonverbal reasoning skills.

What are the risk factors for autism spectrum disorder?

While the cause of autism spectrum disorder isn’t known, its risk factors may include:

• Family history of ASD
• Pregnancies in women over age 35
• Less than 12 months between pregnancies
• Bleeding during pregnancy
• Having gestational diabetes
• Taking certain medications while pregnant
• Preterm birth
• Low birthweight
• Reduced fetal oxygen during pregnancy or delivery

Autism may stem from genetics, environmental factors, or both. Research is ongoing to learn more about this common condition and its possible causes.

How is autism spectrum disorder diagnosed?

Dr. Lowe diagnoses ASD by completing a mental health evaluation using DSM-5 criteria. He asks questions about your or your child’s behaviors, thoughts, social interactions, emotions, and lifestyle. 

He also asks about the ability to hold conversations, nonverbal communication, and interpersonal relationships. 

Dr. Lowe inquires about repetitive motions or speech patterns, lack of eye contact, routine changes, awkward body movements, sensory issues, and other signs of ASD. 

He might recommend genetic testing to screen for genetic variations linked to autism, but this doesn’t diagnose autism. 

How is ASD treated?

Treating ASD often consists of:

• Medication management
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Other forms of psychotherapy
• Social skills training
• Referrals for educational support
• Lifestyle modifications 

Dr. Lowe can treat any co-existing conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), substance use disorder, and others that may accompany ASD.

Schedule an autism spectrum disorder evaluation at Centered Behavioral Health & Wellness by calling the office or requesting a visit online today.