Asperger’s Syndrome (High Functioning Autism)

Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental disorder which is considered a variant of autism spectrum disorder. It is also known as high function autism.  Children with Asperger’s syndrome have problems with socialization and communications. They exhibit odd speech, limited facial expression and sometimes obsession. Generally, this condition is confused with other conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).

Incidence:

Boys are3-4 times more likely than girls to have Asperger’s Syndrome.
Around 4 children in 1000 children

Signs and Symptoms

• Very rigid, gets upset with minor change in routine
• Very poor with understanding facial expression
• Very firm with his / her decisions
• Very hypersensitive to light, sound, textures (sensory processing dysfunction)
• Generally very clumsy, gets difficulties with handwriting
• Easily gets disturbed, show temper tantrum, may be self-injurious 
• Shows repetitive behaviours
• Difficulty in motor skills and coordination, etc

Causes

• Mostly it is unknown. Genetics and brain abnormalities have been found linked.

Diagnosis Making

As Asperger’s syndrome has been included in Autism, the same diagnostic profile is used to diagnose Asperger’s syndrome.  Diagnosis is made on the basis of observations and assessments rather clinical testing.

Treatment / Management

Although there is no single medicine which can cure Asperger’s syndrome but with proper care and scientific parenting, mostly people with Asperger’s syndrome do very well. Management requires both medications and therapies

Medications:   The following medicines are mostly used

• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Anti-psychotic medications

Therapy: The following therapies are the standard treatments for AS

• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Therapy
• Special education
• Behaviour Therapy
• Social Skill Training
• Parents’ education about the syndrome, etc

Prognosis

As all people with Asperger’s syndrome have normal or high IQ, they lead very productive life.
If you want to know more about Asperger’s syndrome or want to consult us, please contact us at

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