On Call Medic

November 13, 2010 | 05:26 PM |

Autism Early Warning Signs

Everyone knows someone who is connected to Autism.

If you child exhibits some or all of the following symtoms, have it checked out now. This is something that needs treatment now. This is NOT: Let’s wait and see what happens.

Poor eye contact.  

This is a red flag because babies learn by engaging with others.

Limited exploration of objects around them.

We want to see they are interested in the world around them.

Delayed babbling.

At 6 months babies typically make a variety of sounds like ba, ma, and da.

Resists Cuddling. 

If a baby does resist affection, that’s something to monitor.

Low muscle tone. 

Watch for difficulty sitting independently after 6 months of age and head lagging. While in a lying position, you should gently pull them to a sitting position, see if their head lags or lolls behind when they are being raised up.

Weak fine motor skills when picking up small objects with fingers.

Up to 20% of younger children have Autism they have an older sibling with Autism.

Most doctors are still waiting to screen a child at 18 months. This is too late for some.  Children should start being screened at 6 months.  

The brain is most malleable in the first years of life and treatment needs to start asap.

Smiling shows a baby is responsive and social.

have a happy and healthy day.

Sylvia Wildfire  OnCallMedic.net