Autism Signs in Babies

Autism is in the news. More and more American children, we are told, have autism. Parents blame pharmaceutical companies for causing their children's autism. New studies cite genetic and environmental causes of autism. So when we see some unusual signs in our babies, we wonder if autism is to blame. Before you rush call your pediatrician, however, here's what you need to know.

  1. What is Autism?

    • Autism is a brain disorder affecting 1 in 150 U.S. children and changing the way a child interacts with others, plays and talks. No one is sure why some children have autism, but physicians agree the earlier a child receives treatment, the more easily that child can cope with her future.

    Early Diagnosis

    • It's impossible to definitively diagnose an infant with autism. Most children aren't diagnosed until age 3, but some can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. However, no matter the age of their child, parents should alert their pediatrician of any symptoms that may point to autism.

    Early Symptoms

    • Signs of autism in babies include:

      --At 6 months of age, not smiling and avoiding eye contact.
      --At 12 months of age, not babbling or using gestures (like pointing).
      --At 16 months, not using any words.
      --At 24 months, not using meaningful two-word phrases.
      --Regression developmentally, especially a loss of social or language skills.

      Regression is thought to be a strong sign of autism. Around 25 percent of autistic children appear healthy as babies, then regress between 12 and 24 months of age. In addition, one 2007 study found that a child not looking when someone calls his name may be an early symptom of autism.

    Evaluations

    • If your baby shows several symptoms of autism, he should be evaluated. According to Helpguide, a nonprofit organization guiding people through a variety of health difficulties, if autism is recognized by the time a child is 1-year old, "intensive treatment may even be able to rewire the brain and reverse the symptoms."

      Autism is difficult to diagnose at such an early age, but it's worth having an evaluation if a baby shows several symptoms.

    Tests

    • Screening tests are mostly a matter of asking parents "yes and no" questions. If the screening indicates autism may be an issue, your pediatrician should refer you to a specialist. Check the Resources section below for links to screening questions.

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