Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child's ability in communication, social interaction and behavior. ASD covers not only autism, but also covers Asperger's syndrome, Heller's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorders (PPD-NOS).

Autistic people see, hear and feel the world differently to other people. If you are autistic, you are autistic for life; autism is not an illness or disease and cannot be 'cured'. Often people feel being autistic is a fundamental aspect of their identity. It is important to be aware of the symptoms as early as possible, because ASD including conditions that cannot be cured. However, there are different types of treatment and intensive treatment steps that can help people with autism to adapt in everyday life, as well as achieving their full potential.

There are a number of factors, such as genetics and environmental influences, which are thought to cause this disorder. However, the causes of autism are certainly not known until today (The exact cause of autism is still being investigated). In certain cases, autism may also be triggered by certain diseases.

In general, the symptom of autism is detected at the early age of a child's development before reaching three years. Symptoms and severity of autism also tend to vary among persons. However, these symptoms can be grouped into two main categories.

The first category is impaired social interaction and communication. These symptoms can include sensitivity to environmental issues of social and impaired use verbal and non verbal language.

While the second category includes the mindset, interests, and behavior are limited and are repetitions. Examples of repetitive movements, such as tapping or squeezing the hand, and was upset when routines are disrupted.

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Source : www.autism.org.uk/card