Checking Your Child for Autism

One of the greatest fears of parents is having their child diagnosed with autism, or any other developmental disorder for that matter. And who can blame them? With a rapidly-growing number of children with autism, and still very little public knowledge about these disorders, more moms and dads are wondering how to be more proactive. Here are a few starting points and ideas to consider so you can take charge of your child's health with confidence. 

 

1. Screenings, and staying on schedule

 Most cases of autism are diagnosed at the age of two. However, this isn't a hard-and-fast rule. For most parents, the first tell-tale signs that something may be wrong are difficulties in verbal communication, and lack of eye contact, both of which may appear earlier than the age of 2. 

Dr. Lourdes “Tippy” Sumpaico-Tanchanco, developmental-behavioral pediatrician and professor at Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, advises parents to get their child checked as soon as they have concerns, highlighting the  importance of undergoing the routine developmental screenings at 9 months, 18 months, 24 months, and 30 months. Dr. Tippy also encourages all parents, with or without concern, to have their kids undergo an autism-specific screening at 18 months. A close monitoring of the child's behavior and open communication with the pediatrician can make a big difference in the child's prognosis, should he or she be diagnosed early. 

 

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2. Seeking a second opinion

 If you're not fully convinced by what your doctor says, you're entitled to seek multiple opinions. However, before going to the second consultation (and every consultation after that), make sure you've done some homework on the condition. That way, you can ask better, more directed, and more specific questions than if you had walked in to the appointment blind. Keep in mind that seeking many different opinions can lead to more confusion and may cause you to make inappropriate decisions out of fear and panic. Go with trusted sources, and verify what the doctors say through your own research so that you are totally comfortable in your decisions. However, don't wait too long to decide on what to do-- remember, the earlier the correct diagnosis, the better the outcomes for your child. 

Dr. Tippy, aside from encouraging parents to become more knowledgeable about their children's conditions, prefers that parents ask for ways to become more involved in the diagnostic process. She says, “It would be better if parents asked questions like, 'What milestones should I be watching out for?' or 'What activities can I do with my children to stimulate better brain development?'" She also states that parents should keep in mind the other aspects of development (i.e. sensory processing, motor skills) rather than staying focused on their main concern with their child. Understanding the complexities of developmental disorders can help parents administer the most effective care possible. 

 

3. Hearing the diagnosis for the first time

 When asked what advice she would give parents who have just learned that their child has autism, Dr. Tippy's first answer was to get educated. She adds, “Parents should be involved and proactive in their children's interventions. [They should] Know what's going on during all their therapies, play sessions, etc. Coordinate with your team of experts and helpers.” When putting your team together, Dr. Tippy recommends making sure you choose those who not only work well with your child but who you're also very comfortable with. Don't be afraid to voice your concern if something doesn't feel right.

The thought of caring for a child with autism can certainly be overwhelming, and you may find yourself blaming a variety of things or circumstances for your child's diagnosis. In order to stay focused, have a plan and set small-but-reachable goals. If you don't know where to start, seek out the community in your region, and they'll be more than happy to support you for sure. 

 

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4. In-utero Prevention of Autism

 Though theories about the cause(s) of autism still differ, one thing universally agreed upon is the importance of a healthy mother in creating the optimal environment for a developing fetus. Research has shown time and time again that a baby is affected by the mom's diet, exposure to toxic chemicals (whether from food, skincare/cosmetic products, or household products), exposure to harmful radiation (think cell phones and microwaves), and her overall health status. Seasoned Ob-Gynes say that a year of preparation before trying to conceive, at the very least, is ideal in the prevention of short-term and long-term health complications. Be sure to eat foods or take supplements that support the proper formation of your developing baby's nervous system, since it regulates the development of the rest of the baby's body. Address any nutritional deficiencies, clean up your diet, adopt some form of exercise, quit your vices, manage your stress, and detoxify your body. Even if kids aren't in your immediate future, it's never too early to start becoming healthier.  Sounds like a tall order, but it's a gesture your future family will appreciate. 

 

Special thanks to:

Lourdes C. Sumpaico-Tanchanco, MD

Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician

The Medical City, Medical Arts Tower, Unit 1004, Ortigas Ave., Pasig City

(02) 635-6789 loc. 5120 or +63919-367-2002

 

Photo by Lance Neilson via flickr creative commons