Advanced Neurology, Personalized Care

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Symptoms, Diagnose and Treatment

What Is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interactions, and behavior. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning symptoms and their severity vary widely from person to person.

At Mir Neurology, we provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and management for individuals with autism, helping families navigate available therapies and support options.

Signs & Symptoms of Autism

Autism symptoms can appear in early childhood, typically before the age of 3. Common signs include

1. Social Communication & Interaction Challenges

Difficulty with eye contact, facial expressions, and body language
Delayed or limited speech development
Trouble understanding social cues and responding to emotions
Preferring to play alone rather than engaging with peers
Difficulty forming or maintaining friendships

2. Repetitive Behaviors & Sensory Sensitivities

Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
Engaging in repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking)
Strong attachment to routines and rituals
Intense focus on specific interests or topics
Sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or certain foods

3. Cognitive & Developmental Differences

Some individuals have exceptional memory or skills in areas like math, music, or art
Others may experience learning difficulties or intellectual disabilities
Difficulty with problem-solving and flexible thinking

How Is Autism Diagnosed?

At Mir Neurology, we use a multidisciplinary approach to accurately diagnose autism. Since there are no medical tests for ASD, diagnosis is based on clinical observations, behavioral assessments, and developmental history.

Diagnostic Process

Comprehensive Developmental & Behavioral Evaluations
Standardized Autism Screening Tools (e.g., M-CHAT, ADOS-2)
Neurological & Cognitive Assessments to rule out other conditions
Genetic Testing (if needed) to check for underlying genetic causes

Early diagnosis allows for early intervention, which significantly improves outcomes in language, social skills, and daily functioning.

Treatment & Support for Autism at Mir Neurology

While autism is a lifelong condition, personalized therapies and interventions can help individuals develop essential skills and lead fulfilling lives.

Personalized Treatment Plans May Include

Behavioral Therapy – Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to improve social skills, communication, and behavior management
Speech & Language Therapy – Helps with verbal and nonverbal communication skills
Occupational Therapy – Supports sensory processing, fine motor skills, and daily life tasks
Medication Management – For co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or seizures
Social Skills Training – Helps with peer interactions and relationship-building
Parent & Caregiver Education – Guidance on how to support a child with autism at home and school

Comprehensive Autism Care in Hagerstown & Cumberland

At Mir Neurology, we are dedicated to helping individuals with autism thrive. Our team provides expert evaluation, compassionate care, and access to effective therapies to support both children and adults on the autism spectrum.

Get Expert Help

If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline, early diagnosis is key to effective management. Consult with our neurology specialists for personalized assessment and care plans.

📞 Contact Us Today
For Expert Neurological Care!

Our Locations

Main Office - Cumberland, United States

Our main office is located in Cumberland, United States. Our doctors have office hours at additional locations in the Hagerstown area to better serve our patients.