Asperger's Syndrome

DEFINITION

Asperger's syndrome, which is also known as pervasive development disorder, is an autismspectrum disorder (i.e. similar in some ways to autism) and is often referred to as 'highfunctioning autism'.

DESCRIPTION

Asperger's syndrome becomes obvious during early childhood, usually around the age of three years Despite this, the diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome is often missed until the child reaches late childhood. Asperger's syndrome is more common in males than in females and can vary enormously in the severity of disability it causes.

SYMPTONS

-Inability to understand how to interact with other people,
-Clumsy and uncoordinated motor movements
-Extremely egocentric behavioural patterns
-Limited interests
-Unusual preoccupations
-Repetitive routines or rituals
-Abnormalities in speech and language
-Few facial expressions other than anger or misery
-Difficulty interpreting non-verbal communication (i.e. the body language or facial expressions of other people)
-Excellent rote memory and musical ability and may become intensely interested in a limited range of topics, to the exclusion of anything else
-Talking obsessively about their favourite interests or repeating a word or phrase many times.
-Being 'in a world of their own' and very preoccupied with their own agendas
-Anxiety and an inability to cope with any form of criticism or imperfection
-Clumsiness
-An unusual gait or stance and a degree of eccentricity
-Children with Asperger's Syndrome generally display a much higher IQ than those with severe autism.

CAUSE

The cause of Asperger's syndrome is not known, but it's thought that it may be genetically inherited.

TREATMENT

Always consult your doctor for the diagnosis and management of this disorder. The management of Asperger's syndrome is similar to that of autism. This involves behavioural therapy that includes both the child and their family and is tailored to suit the child's specific needs. These needs are determined by the severity of their condition. Some options include:
-Psychotherapy
-Parental education and training
-Training in social skills
-Providing an appropriate educational environment.
-In some cases, certain aspects of Asperger's syndrome such as social behavioural problems and hyperactivity may improve with certain medications
-People with Asperger's syndrome tend to be underweight, which is thought to be caused by poor eating behaviours. If this is the case, there may be a need to consult a dietitian for advice on the best way of ensuring adequate nutrition.

DISCLAIMER: The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or naturopath before following any medical regimen to see whether it is safe and effective for you.