An autism spectrum disorder diagnosis is generally made after signs of the disorder are noticed by the parents.
Concerns about a child’s behavior usually causes parents to contact their child’s pediatrician. Signs such as being withdrawn, lack of communication, or slow development typically cause concern for parents.
Your child’s pediatrician will make an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis after screening your child. Since there is not a definitive medical test that can diagnosis autism spectrum disorder, your child’s pediatrician will rely on observations, interviews, and evaluations of your child.
Once an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis is made, your child’s pediatrician may use terms such as “it looks like” and “it appears to be”.
This is because a definitive diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is difficult to make. Parents need to understand that once an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis is obtained, it is not the end of the world.
A diagnosis makes it easier to move forward and work towards helping a child to operate with the disorder.
There are many programs available for both parents and children with autism spectrum disorder to help them cope with the disorder. Early intervention is key for children with autism spectrum disorder.
Once an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis is made, there are therapeutic treatments that may be beneficial to your child.
You can also begin to gather resources from different organizations, websites, and the library about the disorder and what it means for your child.
You can also join a local support group for parents of children who have been given an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. When your child’s pediatrician makes an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, they will be able to help you understand what services will be most beneficial to your child.
The pediatrician will be able to recommend programs for symptoms such as speech delays, hearing problems, and social deficits.