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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder. It affects a person's behavior. And it makes communication and social interactions hard. ASD can range from mild to severe. The type of symptoms a person has and how severe they are varies. Some adults who have ASD may not be able to function without a lot of help from parents and other caregivers. Others may learn social and verbal skills and be able to care for themselves. Most people who have ASD will always have some trouble when they communicate or interact with others. But treatment for ASD has helped many people who have it to lead full lives. ASD now includes conditions that used to be diagnosed separately. These include: You or your doctor might use any of these terms to describe the condition. The exact cause of ASD isn't known. But many factors may be involved. A change in certain genes or an interaction of several genes may be responsible. And something in the environment may play a role in these gene changes. Studies show that vaccines don't cause ASD.footnote 1, footnote 2 Adults with ASD have some symptoms in these areas: Symptoms may include: Symptoms may include: How severe the symptoms are varies. Some symptoms, like repetitive behaviors, may get better over time. ASD is usually diagnosed in early childhood. That's when parents may notice developmental delays and behavior issues. But if a child's symptoms are mild or mistaken for another condition, ASD may not be noticed until later in life. To diagnose ASD, the doctor will: You may have other tests. These are to see if another problem is causing symptoms. The doctor will use all of this information, along with their own judgment, to diagnose ASD. Treatment may include: This can help you learn how to: This can help you learn how to: On-the-job training and coaching can help you to: Medicines might be used to treat ASD symptoms. These include being cranky or hyperactive. Sometimes medicine is used to treat other problems, like anxiety and depression. Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: June 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Adults
Condition Basics
What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adults?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is ASD in adults treated?
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Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.