When your child has difficulty communicating or understanding social cues, they may need an assessment for autism spectrum disorder. Oscar Sugastti, MD, FAA, Jacqueline Adames, FNP-BC, and the team at AAA Pediatrics, located in Woodbridge, Virginia, offer diagnosis and support for you and your child if they show signs of autism. Although this is a difficult diagnosis, your pediatric team is with you every step of the way. For a consultation, call or schedule an appointment online today.
Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder, is a term that refers to a range of developmental disabilities that affect behavioral and mental abilities of children and adults. With autism, a child or adult has difficulty interpreting social cues and struggles with communication and having relationships with others.
To varying degrees, a child with autism may have limited skills, interests, and abnormal patterns of behavior. Autistic children may not want to be touched or have difficulty controlling emotions. These limits often make normal daily activities, including school and social situations, extremely difficult.
Children with autism experience symptoms to varying degrees. Each child shows a unique combination of signs when they have this developmental condition.
Autism symptoms range from mild to debilitating and may include:
Autistic children and adults often require strict routines and a carefully controlled environment to cope well.
Though there is no cure for autism, treatment plans focus on empowering autistic children and their families to manage their disabilities well by using specific skills and mechanisms.
Every child and family has specific, unique needs that your physician considers when creating a treatment plan, which may include:
The team at AAA Pediatrics may order specialty services, such as occupational therapy and physical therapy. They also work closely with your child’s school to help them gain valuable resources, such as special education or tutoring.
If needed, they may recommend neurologic or psychiatric consultations with trusted partners who can work with your family to develop an effective treatment plan. Though autism can be an overwhelming reality, your pediatric team commits to helping you and your child thrive and experience a full, healthy life despite their limitations.
For a consultation regarding your child’s autism, call or schedule an appointment online with AAA Pediatrics today.
