The Truth About Asperger Syndrome

Asperger's syndrome is a neurological condition resultant of a wide range of behaviors. Motor development, speech and thought patterns could all be affected with this situation. The odd behaviours and speech patterns often isolate individuals with Asperger's from society. Persons with Aspergers syndrome or AS may aggressively act out because of nervousness, despair or pressure. Diagnosis and treatment are available to alter symptoms and behaviours.

The condition was initially noted by Austrian paediatrician Hans Asperger in 1944, but because all his findings were written in German, it wasn't until the early 1980’s that the condition became commonly known. Aspergers became an certified illness with diagnosis in the early 1990’s. Studies show that 2 out of 10,000 children are affected with the condition and boys are 3 to 4 times more likely to have the illness than girls. Many kids are diagnosed by the third birthday, but some acquire symptoms as young as infancy.

Suspicions arise when a kid experiences developmental delays as evidenced by learning to crawl or walk later than usual, or having troubles with learning to ride a cycle or catch a ball. These kids might appear clumsy and develop a odd gait that ranges from rigid to bouncy. Individuals show a restricted capability to use gestures when talking and may demonstrate diminished or strange facial expressions.

The teenagers start to develop odd speech patterns, that range from excessively formal to monotone. They also have trouble comprehending how to adjust volume levels in various situations. Often times they verbalize statements over and over again. There is a restricted capability to understand the difference between literal and figurative language.

Though not always able to express themselves, these kids have high levels of intellect. Most become infatuated with a specific item or theme, absorbing vast amounts of facts in an attempt to entirely cover the subject.

Due to impaired understanding, speech and motor skills, these kids lack good social skills. Few show no desire to relate with others. Out of annoyance individuals develop nervousness and depression, often causing defiant or aggressive behaviour.

Asperger syndrome may co-exist with other conditions as well as ADHD, tic disorders OCD.

Strange fetal brain cell growth resulting in strange neural circuitry and transmission are thought to cause the chaos. Some scientists have discovered an excess of certain proteins. Although the condition is hereditary, no single gene is accountable, so the condition and symptoms vary for each individual.

Diagnosis is determined by qualified physicians who treat the condition in a variety of ways. Various methods of cognitive behavioural therapy, language and speech therapy, occupational and physical therapy, social skills training, and medication are few of the therapy options. Parent support groups and training allow families to share facts and experience to better cope with the situation.