Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a problem that many people are not aware of. This is the reason why most people are often unable to identify it in the early stages. It is a developmental disability, which is often diagnosed in childhood. It was earlier known as autism, but now it is called Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By identifying it at the right time, children are helped at the right time. In such a situation, today in this article we will tell you about some early signs of this disease in children-

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that usually appears in childhood. Having ASD changes the way your child talks and communicates. There is no cure for autism, but symptoms may subside over time.

Key symptoms of autism

• Children with autism avoid eye contact.
• Till the age of 9 months, he does not respond when called by his name.
• Facial expressions such as happiness, sadness, anger, and surprise are not visible until the age of 9 months.
• A child with autism may not be able to play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake until the age of 12 months.
• Even after 12 months, he uses very little or no gestures (like to say bye).
• At the age of 15 months, he is not able to tell others about his likes and dislikes.
• There is no point in showing them anything interesting until the age of 18 months.
• At 2 years old, they do not notice when others are hurt or upset.
• Till the age of 36 months i.e. 3 years, he does not pay attention to other children and does not even play with them.
• At 48 months (4 years) he doesn't pretend to be a superhero while playing
• Even after reaching the age of 5, he is not interested in any activities like singing, dancing or acting.

What are the risk factors for autism?

• Birth of a premature baby.
• Complications during birth.
• Low weight of the baby at birth.
• Having a sibling with autism.
• Having some chromosomal or genetic condition.
• The age of the parents should be 35 or above at the time of the child's birth.
• Use of valproic acid or thalidomide by either parent during pregnancy.

Can autism be prevented?

Just as there is no cure for autism, it cannot be prevented either. However, its risk can be reduced by doing some things and making some changes in lifestyle, which include the following:-

• You can reduce this risk by following a good lifestyle with the help of healthy diet and regular exercise etc.
• Take only the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Also, ask them which medicines are safe and which medicines you should stop taking during pregnancy.
• Alcohol of any kind and in any quantity is not safe during pregnancy, so avoid it completely.
• Before getting pregnant, make sure you get all the vaccines prescribed by your doctor, including the German measles (rubella) vaccine. This vaccine can prevent rubella-related autism.