what-is-asperger's-syndrome : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Aspergers syndrome is a condition on the autism spectrum, with generally higher functioning. People with this condition may be socially awkward and have an all-absorbing interest in specific topics. Communication training and behavioral therapy can help people with the syndrome learn to socialise more successfully.

How common is Asperger syndrome?

Autism, including Asperger syndrome, is much more common than most people think. There are around 700,000 people in the UK living with autism – thats more than 1 in 100. People with Asperger syndrome come from all nationalities and cultural, religious and social backgrounds, although it appears to affect more men than women.

Requires a medical diagnosis:-

People with this condition may be socially awkward and have an all-absorbing interest in specific topics. A diagnosis is the formal identification of the condition, usually by a multi-disciplinary diagnostic team, often including a speech and language therapist, pediatricians, psychiatrist and/or psychologist. Because Asperger syndrome varies widely from person to person, making a diagnosis can be difficult. It is often diagnosed later in children than autism and sometimes difficulties may not be recognized and diagnosed until adulthood.

The benefits of a diagnosis

Some people see a formal diagnosis as an unhelpful label, but for many, getting a timely and thorough assessment and diagnosis may be helpful because:

• It helps people with Asperger syndrome (and their families, partners, employers, colleagues, teachers and friends) to understand why they may experience certain difficulties and what they can do about them
• It allows people to access services and support.

How Asperger syndrome is diagnosed?

The characteristics of Asperger syndrome vary from one person to another, but in order for a diagnosis to be made, a person will usually be assessed as having had persistent difficulties with social communication and social interaction and restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviors, activities or interests since early childhood, to the extent that these “limit and impair everyday functioning”.

What is Symptoms of Asperger syndrome?

Behavioral: aggression, antisocial behavior, compulsive behavior, fidgeting, hyperactivity, impulsivity, repetitive movements, screaming, self-harm, social isolation, or persistent repetition of words or actions

Muscular: inability to combine muscle movements, poor coordination, tic, or clumsiness

Mood: anger, anxiety, apprehension, or loneliness

Also common: depression, intense interest in a limited number of things, learning disability, nightmares, sensitivity to sound, or stuttering

What causes Asperger syndrome?

The exact cause of autism (including Asperger syndrome) is still being investigated. Research into causes suggests that a combination of factors – genetic and environmental – may account for differences in development. It is not caused by a persons upbringing, their social circumstances and is not the fault of the individual with the condition.

Is there a cure?

There is no cure for Asperger syndrome. However, there is a range of strategies and approaches which people may find to be helpful.

How you can help?

You can help people with Asperger syndrome and their families by:

• spreading understanding about autism – sign up to support our Too Much Information campaign
• donating so we can continue to give millions of people information and advice about support
• volunteering in one of our schools, care services or offices
• Fundraising for us.