What makes someone have autism

Some, usually those with the least severe problems, eventually may lead normal or near-normal lives. Others, however, continue to have difficulty with language or social skills, and the teen years can bring worse behavioral and emotional problems. Babies develop at their own pace, and many don't follow exact timelines found in some parenting books.

But children with autism spectrum disorder usually show some signs of delayed development before age 2 years. If you're concerned about your child's development or you suspect that your child may have autism spectrum disorder, discuss your concerns with your doctor. The symptoms associated with the disorder can also be linked with other developmental disorders. Signs of autism spectrum disorder often appear early in development when there are obvious delays in language skills and social interactions.

Your doctor may recommend developmental tests to identify if your child has delays in cognitive, language and social skills, if your child:. Autism spectrum disorder has no single known cause. Given the complexity of the disorder, and the fact that symptoms and severity vary, there are probably many causes. Both genetics and environment may play a role. One of the greatest controversies in autism spectrum disorder centers on whether a link exists between the disorder and childhood vaccines.

Despite extensive research, no reliable study has shown a link between autism spectrum disorder and any vaccines. In fact, the original study that ignited the debate years ago has been retracted due to poor design and questionable research methods.

Avoiding childhood vaccinations can place your child and others in danger of catching and spreading serious diseases, including whooping cough pertussis , measles or mumps. The number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder is rising. It's not clear whether this is due to better detection and reporting or a real increase in the number of cases, or both.

Autism spectrum disorder affects children of all races and nationalities, but certain factors increase a child's risk. These may include:. There's no way to prevent autism spectrum disorder, but there are treatment options. Early diagnosis and intervention is most helpful and can improve behavior, skills and language development. However, intervention is helpful at any age. Though children usually don't outgrow autism spectrum disorder symptoms, they may learn to function well. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Autism spectrum disorder ASD. The American Academy of Pediatrics has compiled a comprehensive list of this research. How do these genetic and nongenetic influences give rise to autism?

Most appear to affect crucial aspects of early brain development. Some appear to affect how brain nerve cells, or neurons, communicate with each other. Others appear to affect how entire regions of the brain communicate with each other. Research continues to explore these differences with an eye to developing treatments and supports that can improve quality of life. Asperger Syndrome Autism Statistics and Facts. Associated Conditions Sensory Issues.

Treatments Access Services Insurance. Information by Topic. Resource Guide. Autism Response Team. Our Mission. Some harmful substances ingested during pregnancy also have been associated with an increased risk of autism. This website uses 'cookies' to give you the best, most relevant experience. Using this website means you're Ok with this. Genetic Vulnerability Autism tends to occur more frequently than expected among individuals who have certain medical conditions , including fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome and untreated phenylketonuria PKU.

Last updated: July 15,