One in 88 children has some type of autism spectrum disorder. Autism disorders affect social functioning and communication. Even mild forms of autism can affect the ability of an affected person to make and maintain friendships and relationships, or to get and hold a job. People who are affected more severely may be unable to communicate or interact with other people at all. There is no cure for autism, but early diagnosis and treatment for autism can help children reach their full potential.
The main goal of treatment for autism is to improve the ability of the child to function. Secondary goals of most types of treatment of autism include helping parents and families, and improving communication, social, behavioral and adaptive skills for the child.
Drug Treatment
Drugs are not typically used as treatment for autism, but may be prescribed to treat related conditions or problem behaviors. A doctor may prescribe medication to treat depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders or hyperactivity. Since many children with autism develop seizure disorders, they may also take medication to help control seizures.
Surgical Treatment
There is no surgical treatment for autism.
Behavior and Specialized Therapy
The most common types of treatment for autism are behavioral training and behavioral management therapies. They include a number of well-known behavior teaching systems, including Applied Behavioral Analysis and sensory integration. Most treatment plans for children with autism will include speech, occupational and physical therapy to help the child process sensory information and respond to it more appropriately.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Children with autism often require specialized routines to help them maintain their emotional balance. Parent support groups are invaluable as adjuncts to treatment for autism. Children with disorders on the autism spectrum cope best when they can count on a regular routine. In addition to maintaining a routine, many people find that following a specific diet also helps their child’s symptoms. Most dietary treatment for autism focuses on avoiding artificial preservatives, colors and ingredients.
Alternative Therapies
There are numerous alternative treatments for autism, though many of them lack any kind of scientific trials or evidence that they are effective. They include:
* Nutritional supplements, such as vitamin B6 and magnesium
* Elimination of milk, gluten and artificial ingredients from the diet
* Immune globulin injections
* Secretin injections
* Chelation therapy
* Auditory integration training
* Facilitated communication
Stem Cell Therapy for Autism
A number of researchers are exploring the potential uses of stem cells as a treatment for autism based on a number of different theories of the origin of autism. The ability of stem cells to repair and replace damaged cells holds significant promise for those who have conditions on the autism spectrum.