Autism: What it is and What Are the Causes
Even though you may not be able to determine if a person has autism from a glance, the signs become more apparent when the person communicates, interacts, behaves, and learns. When it comes to learning, thinking, and problem-solving, individuals with ASD can range from being gifted to severely challenged in a specific area. The strengths and weaknesses are able to be better pinpointed with ongoing diagnosis and treatment.
What are the Causes of Autism?
Although the exact cause of ASD is unknown, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), believes that both genetics and environment may be a factor in whether a person develops autism.
Some of the factors may include:
- Having an immediate family member with autism
- Genetic mutations
- Fragile X Syndrome and other genetic disorders
- Being born to older parents
- low birth weight
- metabolic imbalances
- exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins
- a history of viral infections
- fetal exposure to the medications valproic acid (Depakene) or thalidomide (Thalomid)
Autism is a disorder that affects a person throughout their lifetime. The best way to show your support is by showing kindness and supporting organizations that work to help those impacted by ASD.
Contact South Coast Medical if You’re Feeling Sick
We want to make sure your health is optimized at all times. We also want to be mindful that COVID-19 still has a presence here in Southern California and make sure that our patients stay healthy and safe.
If you are not feeling well and would like to get the Sofia 2 Rapid COVID-19 test, please call us at (949) 360-1069 to schedule an appointment.
If you would like to set up an in-person or telemedicine visit, our hours of operation are:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
The safety of our patients and staff is our top priority. We are located in Aliso Viejo, California, and we offer a wide range of services such as urgent and primary care, sports medicine, and x-rays. If you need help with any of these services, please contact us at (949) 389- 8968. We appreciate the trust our patients have in us and look forward to being of service to you.
