Important Information About Autism

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition caused by differences in the brain that affect how individuals communicate and interact with others. Children with autism may face challenges such as difficulty understanding others, repetitive behaviors or responses, and speech difficulties during conversation. Based on these signs, specialists assess the child’s daily functioning and determine whether the child meets the criteria for an autism diagnosis.

Studies on autism also indicate that four out of five individuals with autism experience mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety. These difficulties can impact young people’s education and reduce their employment opportunities later in life. Therefore, parents play a crucial role in observing their children’s behavior from an early age. Early intervention is extremely important in reducing the severity of autism-related symptoms and helping children achieve better psychological well-being. If you suspect that your child may have autism, it is recommended to seek professional support promptly at Ehtiwaa Medical Center.

Signs That May Indicate Your Child Has Autism

In Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), symptoms can vary in severity, ranging from mild to more pronounced. If your child shows any of the following signs, it is advisable to contact Ehtiwaa Medical Center for professional evaluation:

  • At 6 months: Does not smile or show expressions of joy or affection.
  • At 9 months: Does not make sounds or engage with others during activities.
  • At 12 months: Does not babble or interact with toys or others during play.
  • At 16 months: Experiences noticeable speech delays and is unable to use simple everyday words.
  • At 24 months: Does not speak meaningful phrases.

Your child may also show signs of autism if they exhibit specific behaviors such as:

  • Playing with the same toy in the same way every time, without losing interest.
  • Reacting strongly to even minor changes in their daily routine.
  • Extreme sensitivity to sounds and noise, and difficulties with eating or bathing.
  • Talking about a single topic for more than half an hour.

My Experience in Treating My Child with Autism at Ehtiwaa Medical Center

I would like to share my experience in treating my child for autism. My name is Omaima, and I have a son named Rayan, who is five years old. I first noticed certain signs that concerned me, such as his complete silence and lack of response when I called his name. I asked my family and neighbors, and they reassured me that these behaviors are sometimes common in children, so I initially dismissed it.

One day, the teacher called and asked to speak with me about Rayan. I was very busy and considered postponing the meeting, but her words—“your child experienced a panic episode”—made me rush to the school immediately. When I arrived, I was shocked to see my son screaming at his classmates, unable to calm down. I tried speaking to him, asking him to come home and reminding him how smart and well-behaved he is, hoping he would respond.

He did calm down slightly, and I felt a sense of relief, so I took him home. However, he immediately ran to his room and locked the door. I was confused and worried, unsure of what was happening or why. The teacher later contacted me and explained that the episode had begun after my son’s classmate tried to encourage him to touch a cat, which seemed to trigger an intense reaction.

I was surprised, as it seemed like an unusual response. The teacher then asked whether there was any history of autism in our family. I told her that Rayan’s father had a similar history. She advised me to have him evaluated at Ehtiwaa Medical Center to determine the cause of his behavior.

The next day, I took him for an evaluation and blood tests. Unfortunately, the doctor confirmed that Rayan was showing signs consistent with autism and explained that his condition could worsen over time without intervention. I asked if there were treatment options, and he reassured me that there were effective therapeutic programs. He shared information about the assessments and treatment plans and mentioned that many children had shown significant improvement through continuous care at Ehtiwaa Medical Center.

I agreed to proceed for the sake of my child. After five months of therapy and follow-up, I began to notice remarkable improvements in his condition. Thanks to Ehtiwaa Medical Center, my son’s progress was life-changing, and I am grateful for the support and care that helped him improve.

Treatment Techniques Used in Autism Therapy

Each child with autism is unique, which is why a tailored treatment plan is essential to meet individual needs. Therapeutic plans may include behavioral interventions, and it is recommended to begin behavioral therapy as early as possible to minimize the impact of autism-related symptoms.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be used in combination with medication to address associated conditions such as digestive problems and sleep disturbances that may accompany autism.

During adolescence, individuals with autism can be trained in functional skills and workplace behaviors to enhance their independence and readiness for employment. Such training helps them develop the skills needed for integration into work environments. This approach has been reflected in experiences shared by parents who have successfully supported their children’s progress in autism treatment.