How to Detect Autism

Each month a Loyola Center for Health at Wheaton primary care physician will answer a health question impacting the western suburbs. This month’s question is answered by Dr. Michael Gill who is a pediatrician and internist as well as the medical director of the Loyola Center for Health at Wheaton.

Q: How do I know if my child has autism?

A: Autism is a term that we are hearing about more and more, probably because physicians are doing a better job of identifying it in more people and at younger ages. Evidence shows that early intervention can minimize the long-term impact of this condition, so it is important to screen for this in children as early as possible.

So what are the signs we should be looking out for? Autism at its onset, especially in the toddler years, is very subtle. Sometimes it may be hard for parents to identify since it can often be a difficult process to deal with and because they may not be seeing the “bigger picture” since they are overwhelmed with day-to-day issues with their children. Sometimes concerns of autism are brought up by day-care workers or healthcare professionals or even a friend.

Various surveys such as the M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) are often administered to parents at a child’s 18-month well child visit to try to identify typical symptoms. The surveys ask a series of questions dealing with social and speech development in children.

Some typical signs of autism are:

Child has a harder time making direct eye contact or understanding social cues

Child might not always respond to his or her name

Child may demonstrate hypersensitive reaction to noises (plugging their ears)

Child may have delayed language skills, although surprisingly they may be able to imitate complex sentences without necessarily showing insight into what they are saying

Child may demonstrate frequent repetitive movements or may be very locked into certain “regimens” to the point where breaking that routine may cause quite a bit of distress

Child may not exhibit the ability to engage in “pretend play”

There have been many concerns about vaccines causing a rise in autism. To date, there has been no compelling statistical evidence establishing a firm connection.

However, understanding the concerns of parents, many pediatricians have adjusted the timing of vaccine administrations to help alleviate some of these worries. If you are concerned, see your doctor to discuss your child’s developmental progress and talk about these issues.

.A wonderful film, Temple Grandin, has brought many issues and triumphs concerning this condition to life. The movie is a true story about Temple Grandin who is an autistic woman that became one of the top scientists in the livestock industry.

The Studio Movie Grill in Wheaton will be hosting a free showing of the film at 6:30 pm on Thursday, August 2nd. Some of my colleagues from Loyola University Health System and I will be there as part of a Q&A panel following the showing to help answer questions. Even if you don't have questions this is an amazing film that would benefit all who watch it.

I hope to see you there.

Studio Movie Grill Wheaton

301 Rice Lake Square

Wheaton IL 60189