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Autism is usually identified when a doctor looks for signs of developmental delays at regular checkups. If autism is a possible diagnosis, you and your child may be referred to a specialist in treating children with autism and with a team of professionals, the specialist can perform a formal evaluation.

Since autism is a spectrum disorder, making a diagnosis may be difficult because there is not a specific medical test that can pinpoint the disorder. The diagnosis is made through observation of the child over time looking at his or her social skills, language skills, and behavior.

There is no cure for autism and treatment varies for each patient. There are a wide variety of treatments available.

Behavior and Communication Therapies

These programs work with autistic children to help them focus on their behavior and communication skills. Some programs focus on reducing problem behavior and teaching new skills. Others work on teaching children how to communicate and work with other people socially.

Educational Therapies

Often autistic children respond well to highly structure educational programs. A team of specialists will work closely with the autistic child through a variety of activities that focus on improving communication, behavioral and social skills.

Medications

There is no medication that can improve or cure autism, but some can help reduce symptoms. Sometimes antidepressants are prescribed for high anxiety, and antipsychotic drugs are used to treat severe behavioral problems.

Learn more about treatments for autism in these links:

• Mayo Clinic: Autism Treatments
• WebMD: Autism – Treatment Overview

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