What Is Asperger Syndrome? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Asperger syndrome, sometimes considered a part of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder. This disorder usually impacts the person’s ability to interact effectively with others. According to a study, nearly 1 in 59 kids is diagnosed with ASD, and Asperger syndrome is a significant part of it.

Read this article to learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of Asperger syndrome. 

Symptoms

Children with Asperger syndrome can show various symptoms, which have been listed below.

• Difficulty in social interactions
• Trouble maintaining eye contact
• Difficulty participating in conversations
• Repetitive behaviors
• Special focus on specific interests
• Difficulty understanding jokes or sarcasm
• Show only a few emotions.

Causes

While the exact cause of Asperger syndrome is not yet known, several factors can be held accountable for it.

• Genetic history of Asperger’s syndrome
• Genetic mutations and variations can be linked to this disorder.
• Poor brain development or abnormalities in brain structure
• Exposure to chemicals, infections, or other environmental factors during prenatal development can also lead to this syndrome.

Treatment

While there is no cure for Asperger syndrome, there are several treatments that can help reduce the impact of symptoms and other complications. Since every case is different, the approach to treating it can vary depending on the individual case. Your doctor might consider the following:

• Social Skills Training: This training program teaches both adults and kids how to interact effectively with others and build better relationships.
• Speech Therapy: This therapy is effective in improving communication skills while also mastering the skills of language and non-verbal communication.
• Behavioural Therapy: Behavioral therapies such as applied behavioral analysis are effective in improving social and communication skills. It also helps improve daily living skills.
• Occupational Therapy: This is another treatment option performed by healthcare providers to aid in developing strong motor skills and sensory activities.
• Medications: In some circumstances, Asperger syndrome might be associated with underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or hyperactivity. Therefore, the doctor might recommend certain medications for treatment.

It is important to identify the symptoms at the initial phase and understand the possible causes behind asthma symptoms so that your child can be provided with the best treatment to manage the symptoms. You can also seek a counselor if you’re facing challenges with someone who is suffering from Asperger syndrome.