Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can cause a variety of symptoms that may disrupt your child’s everyday life; however, with early intervention and treatment at MedCare Clinics, your child can reach their full potential. The team of experts provides holistic care for autism in their Houston, Texas, office. Click the online scheduling link or call the office to arrange your child’s evaluation today.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that causes difficulties with social interactions, communication, and repetitive thoughts or behaviors. Autism can affect adults but is far more common in children.
About 1 in 44 American children has autism today, affecting approximately four times more boys than girls. Although this number indicates a rise in incidence, it’s primarily due to increased diagnostic tools and doesn’t necessarily mean autism is growing more common.
Children with possible signs of autism, such as repetitive movements, obsessive interests, and lack of engagement with others, may need a developmental evaluation at MedCare Clinics.
A diagnosis of ASD requires a comprehensive evaluation. There’s no single test to diagnose the condition, but behavioral and developmental assessments play a significant role. In addition, recent technological innovations, like eye tracking capabilities, are making diagnosis more reliable at earlier ages.
All children should have basic ASD screenings at their 18- and 24-month well-child visits, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Pediatricians generally perform those screenings, but the MedCare Clinics team can offer a more in-depth evaluation to get an accurate diagnosis.
There are many approaches to autism treatment, and many children need two or more types of treatment simultaneously. At MedCare Clinics, the team focuses on improving troublesome symptoms, maximizing your child’s abilities, and improving their quality of life.
Some of the different types of treatments include:
The MedCare Clinics team works hand-in-hand with you and your child to formulate a treatment plan that works for your lives.
Some children with autism do improve so much that they’re virtually symptom-free as they grow up. Expert opinions are divided on whether this is due to “growing out” of the disorder, responding extraordinarily well to treatment, or other factors.
Regardless of the situation, one thing is absolutely certain for children with autism: Early intervention and treatment are vital for the best results.
The MedCare Clinics specialists are here to support your family with autism diagnosis and treatment in a child-friendly atmosphere. If you’re concerned about your child’s symptoms, call the office or book an appointment through online scheduling today.