A developmental and neurological disorder – Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts a person’s social interactions, communication, learning, and behavior.
While autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is typically referred to as a ‘developmental disorder’ as the usual age for a conclusive diagnosis of ASD is 2. Getting an evaluation as early as possible remains crucial as with an early diagnosis – services and treatments can start immediately.
There is no blood test for ASD; rather, a thorough process is required, with an emphasis on observing a child’s behavior and carefully listening to parental concerns, in order to reach a diagnosis.
This task is made challenging due to the wide range of ASD symptoms, which can vary from significant mental disabilities to high intelligence levels, allowing for self-sufficiency.
Diagnosis Process
Here at Whole Wellness Services, we have a deep understanding of the challenges associated with ASD diagnoses and are dedicated to offering individualized, comprehensive care to every child.
The diagnostic journey often begins with our trusted pediatricians, those guiding lights in our children’s healthcare. During crucial well-child visits at 18- and 24-month checkups, pediatricians engage in close observation, interaction, and inquiries into family medical history, with a keen eye on any previous ASD occurrences.
They assess developmental milestones, from smiling and babbling to social interactions, while carefully noting any unusual or repetitive behaviors.
Pediatricians pay particular attention to subtle signs, such as challenges in social interaction, difficulty making eye contact, and sensitivities to sensory stimuli. They consider a range of factors, including sleep patterns, emotional responses, and parental feedback, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the child’s development.
Further Evaluation
Should concerns arise, pediatricians may refer families to a specialist for further evaluation. This often involves a multidisciplinary team of ASD specialists, including psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists.
Together, they conduct a thorough evaluation of cognitive levels, language abilities, and life skills to ascertain an accurate diagnosis.
Whole Wellness Services collaborates closely with pediatricians and specialists to support families through this process. We emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, recognizing the critical role it plays in encouraging a child’s growth and development.
Advanced tools, such as the Cognoa ASD Diagnosis Aid, use machine learning to help identify developmental issues in young children. Besides behavioral assessments, our approach may include genetic testing to rule out other conditions that may present similar symptoms.
By taking a comprehensive and personalized approach, we ensure that each child receives an accurate diagnosis and the support necessary to thrive.