Gavini Pediatrics - Asperger's Syndrome

Gavini Pediatric & ADHD Clinics 26850 Providence Parkway, Suite 300, Novi, MI 48374 :: 248.348.4200 www.ADHDclinic.com :: www.YourKidsDoctor.com
Asperger's Syndrome What is Asperger's Syndrome: It is a developmental disorder affecting an individual's ability communicate, interact, and socialize with others. Asperger’s syndrome is typically thought of as the more mild end of the Autism spectrum. Like Autism, there is no cure for Asperger’s. However, like Autism, early treatment can make a big difference in the life of the child.
Signs and Symptoms: Obsession with a particular subject. Difficulty with empathizing and appearing not to be sensitive to other’s feelings. Awkward nonverbal communication like awkward body postures, lack of eye contact, limited facial expressions. Rushed speaking voice or a rigid speaking voice. Moving with poor coordination. Keep track of your child’s developmental milestones. These can be helpful in diagnosing conditions such as Autism or Aspergers.
When to seek a doctor: Unlike Autism, children with Asperger’s don’t become as noticeable until they are in grade school. Then symptoms of Asperger’s become more apparent as teachers and parents see regular interaction between their child and their peers. If the child in question is having difficulty in school and difficulty making friends, then schedule an appointment with your doctor, if not to rule out other possible disorders that could cause similar issues.
Treatment The majority of children with Asperger’s grow up to be well adjusted and happy adults. The most important thing that can be done to help children with Asperger’s are to start early with the specialized interventions that focus on behavior management. Some effective treatments are: Cognitive behavioral therapy Communication and social skills training Medication Naltrexone Risperidone Guanfacine Olanzapine Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

Gavini Pediatric & ADHD Clinics

26850 Providence Parkway, Suite 300, Novi, MI 48374 :: 248.348.4200

www.ADHDclinic.com :: www.YourKidsDoctor.com

Asperger's Syndrome

What is Asperger's Syndrome:

It is a developmental disorder affecting an individual's ability communicate, interact, and socialize with others. Asperger’s syndrome is typically thought of as the more mild end of the Autism spectrum. Like Autism, there is no cure for Asperger’s. However, like Autism, early treatment can make a big difference in the life of the child.

Signs and Symptoms:

Obsession with a particular subject.
Difficulty with empathizing and appearing not to be sensitive to other’s feelings.
Awkward nonverbal communication like awkward body postures, lack of eye contact, limited facial expressions.
Rushed speaking voice or a rigid speaking voice.
Moving with poor coordination.

Keep track of your child’s developmental milestones. These can be helpful in diagnosing conditions such as Autism or Aspergers.

When to seek a doctor:

Unlike Autism, children with Asperger’s don’t become as noticeable until they are in grade school. Then symptoms of Asperger’s become more apparent as teachers and parents see regular interaction between their child and their peers. If the child in question is having difficulty in school and difficulty making friends, then schedule an appointment with your doctor, if not to rule out other possible disorders that could cause similar issues.

Treatment

The majority of children with Asperger’s grow up to be well adjusted and happy adults. The most important thing that can be done to help children with Asperger’s are to start early with the specialized interventions that focus on behavior management. Some effective treatments are:

Cognitive behavioral therapy
Communication and social skills training
Medication
- Naltrexone
- Risperidone
- Guanfacine
- Olanzapine
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors