Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder affecting the brain, often detected in early childhood, and seen in about 1 in 100 children globally. The severity of autism varies, with some individuals living independently while others require lifelong support.
Autism is classified into three levels based on the severity of symptoms:
- Level 1: Requires support; individuals have mild symptoms but struggle with social interactions and communication.
- Level 2: Requires substantial support; individuals face more significant challenges in communication and social engagement.
- Level 3: Requires very substantial support; individuals have severe symptoms and need extensive assistance in daily activities.
The exact causes of autism remain unknown, though genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Risk factors include male sex, family history, premature birth, low birth weight, older parental age, and short intervals between pregnancies.
Common symptoms include difficulty with social interactions, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, and heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli.
While there is no known prevention for autism, expectant mothers can reduce risks by avoiding alcohol, using only prescribed medications, maintaining adequate spacing between pregnancies, and minimizing exposure to air pollution.
Natural remedies that may help manage autism symptoms include incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into the diet, avoiding gluten and casein, ensuring adequate rest, practicing relaxation techniques, and using tablet devices for communication support.
These approaches may improve quality of life, but they cannot cure autism. Consulting healthcare professionals for tailored management is essential if symptoms persist.