How Do I Know If It’s Autism or Something Else?

You’re aware that your child has some differences, but you’re not sure what to make of them. Perhaps you’ve noticed a speech delay, an unexpected way of playing with toys, or a predictable pattern of meltdowns when routines are upset. These can all be signs of autism spectrum disorder, but they don’t in themselves warrant such a diagnosis. 

Other Conditions That May Look Like Autism

Autism spectrum disorder is such a broad diagnostic category that there is no single way to identify a child as being on the autism spectrum. Many of the behaviors and strengths associated with autism may also indicate other unrelated conditions. Some conditions that share traits with autism include:

•        Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

•        Hearing impairment

•        Lead poisoning

•        Sensory Processing Disorder

•        Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Some of the conditions mentioned above can also coexist with autism, so being diagnosed with one of them does not rule out autism spectrum disorder. To get the most appropriate treatment, your child first needs a comprehensive health screening in addition to developmental assessments.

Natural Differences in Development

Some parents worry about signs of autism in their young children when what they are actually observing is a typical variation in development. For example, a parent may believe that a child should be able to speak a specific number of words by a certain age. Although child development specialists do use this type of guideline when screening a child for signs of a delay, it’s not an exact science.

Each child progresses on a unique timetable. Along with specifics such as knowing a particular number of words at a certain age, it’s important to consider the overall trajectory of a child’s development. For example, when a child has begun to use words to communicate and then stops doing so, that is a red flag for atypical speech skills acquisition. Still, any time you have a concern about your child’s health, growth, or development, you should bring it up with your pediatrician.

The Importance of Comprehensive Assessment

There is no way to know whether a child has autism spectrum disorder without a comprehensive assessment by a professional analyzing data from multiple sources. Even when a child shows several signs of autism, there may be many other conditions to rule out before making a diagnosis.

Because some of the most prevalent symptoms of autism are related to personal-social skills, a child psychologist or other professional needs evidence-based assessments and time to observe the child in various situations as part of the evaluation.

Physical and occupational therapy, which are often prescribed for people with autism, may be helpful for a variety of conditions. However, if your child has an underlying medical condition (such as lead poisoning), treating that condition is a vital first step. Taking the time to get a reliable diagnosis before beginning therapy or school-based interventions helps strengthen the likelihood that the treatment will truly benefit your child.

Once you have a reliable diagnosis, you will be one step closer to getting the help your child needs and the support your family deserves. For more information, please visit our autism resources page to learn more about autism spectrum disorders and other autism-related issues

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