What is Asperger syndrome? — Asperger syndrome is mild type of "autism spectrum disorder." Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that affects how a person interacts with the world. It often makes it hard for the person to communicate with or understand other people. It can also cause behaviors that are different from how people without autism spectrum disorder act.

In 2013, the medical names for autism spectrum disorders were changed. In the United States, Asperger syndrome is now just known as "autism spectrum disorder." In other countries, the term "Asperger syndrome" is still used. Some people also use the word "neurodiversity" to describe the different ways people's brains can work.

Asperger syndrome starts in childhood, and is more common in males than in females. It affects each person in a different way. But most people with Asperger syndrome have a hard time relating to other people.

What are the symptoms of Asperger syndrome? — The most common symptoms are behaviors that are unusual for children without Asperger syndrome or autism. For example, a child with Asperger syndrome might play near other children without noticing what the other children are doing or trying to join in their play. Or they might try to get another person's attention by pushing them. But not everyone with Asperger syndrome acts the same way.

Here are some other things a child or adult with Asperger syndrome might do:

●Stand too close to someone or not notice whether the other person is responding to them

●Avoid looking into other people's eyes when talking to them, or focus on the other person's mouth or another part of their body instead

●Have a facial expression that rarely changes, or have trouble understanding other people's facial expressions

●Not use their hands or arms when talking

●Be disorganized and have problems finishing tasks, including school work

●Be very sensitive to noises, smells, tastes, or sights (such as bright lights or colors)

●Not be able to tell when someone is joking, teasing, or being sarcastic

●Be extremely focused on a specific topic or object they are very interested in, and have trouble shifting their focus to other things

●Get very upset if a routine or plan changes

●Be clumsy

Are there tests for Asperger syndrome? — Yes, there are a number of tests that different experts do to see if a person has Asperger syndrome. For children, these tests involve asking parents about how the child speaks and behaves. The doctor will also watch and talk with the child.

How is Asperger syndrome treated? — People with Asperger syndrome often benefit from making changes to help them not feel overwhelmed by the world around them. For example, they can try to avoid very loud, bright, or crowded places, or wear soft and comfortable clothing that does not cause irritation. It can also help to keep a schedule or calendar so the person knows what their routine will be.

Other specific treatments include:

●Therapy – Different types of therapy can teach children how to manage problems related to Asperger syndrome. For example, a child might have therapy to:

•Help control anxiety caused by loud noises or changes in routine

•Learn how to recognize and respond to emotions

•Learn to understand tone of voice and body language

●Help with school – Children with Asperger syndrome might need extra help and support in school, especially with staying organized. They also often need help with reading and writing.

●Medicines – In some cases, doctors might prescribe medicines to treat conditions associated with Asperger syndrome. These conditions can include anxiety, depression, and problems paying attention. But medicines should only be used after therapy and education supports are in place.

If your child has Asperger syndrome, it can help to learn more about the condition to better understand how their brain works. Getting your child support or therapy can help them feel more comfortable interacting with the world. But you can also support them by making it clear that you accept who they are.

As your child gets older, they can also learn to advocate for themselves. This might include explaining to other people that their brain works differently, or requesting certain types of support.

More on this topic

Patient education: Autism spectrum disorder (The Basics)

Patient education: Autism spectrum disorder (Beyond the Basics)