DISCLAIMER
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information sent out does not imply that Autism South Africa underwrites or endorses any particular therapy, intervention, method or medication. Autism South Africa assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information provided herein.
GP's guide to adults with Asperger syndrome
Are there patients who do not have serious 'mental health' difficulties1, yet find it hard to fit in socially, have an unusual social style, may be unable to complete a college course, have no friends, experience anxiety and stress, or cannot find stable employment? If so, they may have Asperger syndrome.
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patients with an autism spectrum disorder:
information for health professionals
information for health professionals
This booklet is aimed at all health professionals who may come into contact with an adult or child with autism for reasons other than their autism. Doctors, nurses, paramedics, dentists and opticians will find this useful. Much of the advice in this leaflet will also be of use to hospital staff who are caring for an in-patient with an autistic spectrum disorder.
WHAT IS AN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a term used to describe a lifelong developmental disorder that is characterised by impairments in social interaction, communication, and imagination. There is a ‘spectrum’ or range of disorders with these features, including autism and Asperger syndrome. Some people with an autism spectrum disorder have severe learning disabilities, and some may never speak. People with Asperger syndrome, on the other hand, usually have an average or above average IQ and acquire spoken language at the same age as typically developing children. All people with an ASD experience three main areas of difficulty, known as the ‘triad of impairments’: Social interaction – difficulty with social relationships, e.g. appearing aloof and indifferent to other people and difficulty with understanding others’ viewpoints and intentions Social communication – difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communication Imagination – difficulty with interpersonal play and imagination, eg having a limited range of imaginative activities, possibly copied and pursued rigidly and repetitively.
In addition to this triad, repetitive behaviour patterns and resistance to change in routine are common. They may also be hyper- or hyposensitive to sound, touch, pain, lights etc. Children and adults with an ASD have illnesses and physical or emotional problems just the same as everybody else. There are over 300 000 people with an ASD in the UK so it is likely you will come across people with an ASD during your career.
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