What are the treatment methods for autism?
Disease description:
A colleague's child has been diagnosed with autism, and he has been suffering greatly every day, not knowing what to do. I want to offer some appropriate support and would like to consult with a doctor about the available treatment options for autism.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication skills, as well as repetitive behaviors and interests. Main treatment approaches for autism include the following:
1. Behavioral and educational therapy: Establishing an independent individual world for the child, enhancing language comprehension and expression abilities through specific methods. Based on individual needs, positive behaviors are established using the "antecedent-behavior-consequence" model, followed by appropriate rewards. Play-based approaches are used to improve social cognition and interpersonal skills.
2. Speech and language therapy: Aimed at improving language comprehension and expression abilities in children with autism, including nonverbal communication skills.
3. Occupational therapy: Helps children develop daily living skills such as dressing, eating, and hand-eye coordination, while also promoting sensory integration.
4. Social skills training: Through group activities or role-playing, children are helped to learn and practice social rules and interaction skills.
5. Medication: Intranasal oxytocin, vitamin B12, and secretin may be beneficial for autism.
6. Physical therapy: Includes transcranial magnetic stimulation, sandplay therapy, hydrotherapy, and others, aimed at improving quality of life and social adaptability in children with autism.
