Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Is a neurodevelopment condition affecting
communication, social interactions, and world perception. It is defined by challenges
in social interaction and communication, as well as the presence of repetitive
behaviours and interests.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Is referred to as a “spectrum” because it
encompasses a wide range of symptoms and severity levels, indicating that each
individual with autism may experience it differently.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Manifests differently for everyone, and each person
with autism has a distinct combination of strengths and challenges.

Co-occurring Conditions

It’s important to remember that many individuals with autism may also face additional
medical, behavioural, or mental health challenges that can impact their overall quality
of life. Some of the most common conditions that often occur together are:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Anxiety and depression
• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders
• Seizures and sleep disorders

Understanding the Nervous System and Autism

Types of Nervous System

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Includes the brain and spinal cord. It processes information and controls most body functions.
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS):
  • Sympathetic Nervous System: Prepares the body for action (fight or flight response).
  • Parasympathetic Nervous System: Helps calm and restore the body after stress or activity.

The Autistic Nervous System

Autistic individuals may experience unique nervous system responses. Some common traits and behaviors include:

• Hyperactivity
• Repetitive movements such as hand-flapping, spinning, or pacing
• Screaming or loud vocalizations
• Kicking or running away
• Walking on tiptoes
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fine and gross motor delays (e.g., trouble with handwriting)
• Dyspraxia (poor coordination and balance)
• Lack of awareness of danger
• Difficulty adapting to changes in routine

Neurological Symptoms in Autistic Children

• Sensation: Difficulty detecting or over-responding to changes in the environment (e.g., touch, sound, or pain)
• Integration: Challenges processing and interpreting sensory information
• Response: Delayed or heightened physical reactions (e.g., movement, speech, or emotional responses)

Functions of the Nervous System

The nervous system serves as the body’s control center. It transmits signals between different parts of the body, allowing us to:

• Perceive and understand our environment
• React to external and internal stimuli
• Coordinate physical movements and bodily functions

The Autistic Brain

The autistic brain often functions differently in how it processes and communicates information. These neurological differences contribute to the behaviors commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Brain Differences in Autism

• Abnormalities in key brain areas:
  • Prefrontal Cortex: Affects decision-making and social behavior.
  • Amygdala: Involved in emotional processing.
  • Fusiform Face Area: Important for recognizing faces.
• Reduced brain connectivity (hypo-connectivity) may cause poorly connected regions to drift apart, impacting language and communication.
• Although differences are often present early in life, early intervention and therapy can help individuals build skills and adapt.

Common Brain Function Symptoms in Autism

• Delayed speech development
• Learning difficulties
• Lack of attention or consideration
• Avoidance of eye contact
• Challenges in social situations
• Self-injury (e.g., head banging, self-biting)
• Sensory sensitivities (to sound, light, touch, or taste)
• Difficulty understanding emotions
• Struggles with communication and social interaction
• Pica (chewing or licking non-edible objects)

Digestive System and Autism

Many autistic individuals experience digestive issues due to physiological and sensory processing differences.

What Is a Digestive System Disorder?

These disorders affect the normal function of the digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder) and may cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Causes include infections, stress, poor diet, genetics, or medical conditions.

Digestive Disorder Symptoms in Autism

• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Gas and frequent bloating
• Overeating or picky eating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Acid reflux

Why Digestive Disorders Are Common in Autism

• Stress & Anxiety: Emotional stress can lead to digestive issues like IBS and reflux.
• Sensory Processing Differences: Some autistic people may not notice hunger or fullness, leading to irregular eating.
• Diet & Food Sensitivities: Selective eating can result in nutritional gaps and digestive problems.
• Gut Microbiome: Autistic individuals may have different gut bacteria, impacting digestion and behavior.
• Gut-Brain Connection: The vagus nerve links the gut and brain, influencing mood, behavior, and sensory responses.