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We don’t know what causes it. We know is a combination of things. We know there is a generic component. We know there are also environmental stressors that interact with the genetic predisposition. We know that prenatal or early postnatal exposure to viral infections and advance parental age may play a part. We know for sure that vaccines DO NOT cause autism.
Many people know about autism but I still encounter parents that have really never heard of it. So what is autism? Google defines it as: “a mental condition, present from early childhood, characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts.”
This is actually not a very good definition. I point it out because many times we try to search for things online and there is not always a good definition or understanding. I do believe that how the website for Autism Speaks defines it is better: “Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD. Previously, they were recognized as distinct subtypes, including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder–not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art. Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. However, the most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between 2 and 3 years of age.”
As we study autism more and more, the definition keeps changing and it is important to have an accurate definition in order for everyone to understand what we are talking about.
Until recently in our state the only doctors that would diagnose it were developmental pediatricians and psychiatrists. Waiting periods to see these specialists are long. Psychiatrists are also overwhelmed with patients. But things are changing. We have an amazing developmental pediatrician who is now training pediatricians to be able to diagnose it and offer treatment and therapies for our patients. I am grateful to be part of this group of doctors who are being trained. My ultimate goal is to make sure my patients receive the best possible help in the most accurate way and prompt time.
It is very important for everyone to be aware of this condition and for all providers to be screening for it at an early age since better outcomes may happen with early intervention.
Make sure to raise your concerns – if you have any–with your provider! There is a lot we can do to help.
Dr. Gomez is a board certified Pediatrician, who knew from an early age that she wanted to be a “doctor for children and teenagers”. She and her husband moved to Arizona in 2006, shortly after marrying, and then began her pediatric residency program in 2007 at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix. She took over Pediatrics of Queen Creek upon finishing her residency in 2010. At her graduation she was given the 2010 The Walt Vikram Award, granted to the graduate that had demonstrated the most exemplary compassion in the care of newborns. She has worked with community programs to teach and educate the public on several health topics. She has a special interest in educating parents about healthy eating, breastfeeding and helping those families dealing with asthma. Dr. Gomez is a mother of 2: a very funny and active boy and a loud and happy daughter. They enjoy traveling and their special Friday movie nights at home.
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