Autism can be difficult to detect because there isn’t a specific medical test. Your pediatrician will work with you and look at your child’s developmental history and behavior. This is the best way to diagnose autism and can help you understand why your child may be struggling with certain things. Dr. Maria Castro at StarLight Pediatrics in Holly Springs, NC, can explain autism screenings and what happens during a screening.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Screenings
Q. When can autism be detected?
A. Autism can be developed when your child is 18 months old, and sometimes can be detected even younger. A diagnosis by age 2 can be reliable and can help you understand your child’s needs.
Q. What are some signs of autism?
A. Early signs of autism can include avoiding eye contact, having little to no interest in other children, limited use of language, or getting extremely upset by small changes in their routine.
Q. How is autism detected?
A. Your pediatrician can help you monitor your child’s behavior and determine if they deal with autism. They’ll look at your child’s development and can see if your child is meeting the milestones they should be. If you have any concerns, your pediatrician in Holly Springs, NC, may recommend an autism screening.
Q. What happens during an autism screening?
A. You will be requested to complete a questionnaire to screen for autism during your child's Well-Visit. During the visit, your provider might talk and play with your child to see how they interact and if they are progressing as planned. Missing milestones could be a sign of an issue, so it’s important to monitor these progressions and make sure that you visit your pediatrician as soon as possible!
Contact Your Pediatrician Today!
It’s important to make sure that your child has all of their needs met! Contact Dr. Maria Castro at StarLight Pediatrics in Holly Springs, NC, to learn about autism screening and whether or not it would be beneficial for your child. Call for more information today at (919) 762-5113.