When someone, often a doctor, first suggests that your child has Autism Syndrome Disorder (ASD), your immediate reaction might be disbelief and the urge to seek a second, third, or even fourth opinion. Because Autism is so different in every child, it is a tricky disorder to diagnose. However, there are a few key ways in which doctors can efficiently identify Autism in children, and if your infant or toddler is showing any of these signs of ASD, you should visit your pediatrician immediately and express your concerns, because there are many therapies that can help your child, and the earlier they are begun, the more successful they are likely to be.

The symptoms of Autism generally begin to show when the child is at a young age. It is often detected before the age of three, and many times much earlier, now that the disorder is so much more common. The first signs of Autism are usually delays or regression in speech communication. Another early sign is abnormal behavior in group play activities or other social situations. The first step to diagnosing Autism is a thorough physical examination as well as a review of family history by a specialist. Although your regular pediatrician will be able to spot unusual behavior, you’ll want your child to be examined by a professional who specializes in Autism and other similar diseases to make sure your child is properly diagnosed. Your doctor can make a referral to the specialist for you.

The next steps include hearing tests since language and social skill delays can be due to inadequate auditory sensations. There are two types of auditory tests. The first one tests and records the tones a child can hear, and the other measures the brain’s response to certain tones and likely will require sedation of the child. Of course, the first method is preferred, but sometimes the second is needed, especially with very young or very easily frightened children. After auditory testing, your doctor may encourage the testing of your child for Fragile X syndrome or other issues that sometimes go hand in hand with Autism. The child’s metabolism can also be evaluated through a blood or urine sample to analyze the DNA.

An MRI or CAT scan can also be helpful in Autism diagnosis. The important thing is to work with doctors you trust. Second opinions can be very helpful, but when your child has been diagnosed, stick with one doctor so that treatment is uniform and so that your child will get used to this person.  Autism is difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to treat, so remember that you should begin to learn as much as possible about the disorder as soon as your doctor identifies it. If you have yet to speak with your doctor about abnormal behavior in your child, do so immediately. By detecting autism early, you give your child a better chance of becoming a high-functioning individual with many more opportunities in life.