Autism vs Virtual Autism

What is Autism

Autism is a disorder of neural development that is characterized by impaired social interaction and communication and by restricted and repetitive behaviour. The conditions coming under Autism Spectrum Disorders are neurological in origin, developmental in progression, and psychological in manifestation. The main forms of ASD are Autism, Asperger’s syndrome, Pervasive Developmental disorder, Rett syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative disorder. Delayed language skills, delayed cognitive or learning skills, hyper active and impulsive behavior, unusual eating and sleeping habits, gastrointestinal issues, and mood fluctuations are the characteristic features of autism spectrum disorder.

Signs & Symptoms of Autism

Early signs

• Delayed speech development
• Hyperactivity
• Preffered to play alone
• Spin objects
• Rejecting cuddles
• Sleep problems

Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Toddlers

• Poor eye contact
• Likes to play alone
• Fail to copy word or actions
• Cant wave good bye
• Continuous repetition of words
• Not pointing at anything
• Not engaging in pretended play
• Flapping their hand ,spinning in circles
• Developmental delays

Causes

• Genetic factors
• Environmental factors
• Advanced parental age
• Low birth weight
• High prematurity

Autism Spectrum Disorders

The main forms of ASD are Autism, Asperger’s syndrome, Pervasive Developmental disorder, Rett syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative disorder

Childhood Autism

Developmental disability is characterized by the onset of changes in social and language development before age of 2.5 years.

Asperger’s syndrome –

Form of ASD in which people have different behavioral and thinking patterns (rigid and repetitive)

Pervasive Developmental disorder

Form of ASD is characterized by a delay in the social and communication skills 

Rett syndrome

Rare genetic Neurological and developmental disorder with progressive loss of motor and language skills 

Childhood Disintegrative disorder

Rare condition which comes after the age of 3, characterized by a delay in language, social function, and motor skills

Virtual Autism

If a child under the age of 2 years is heavily exposed to screens, leading to symptoms similar to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this condition can be referred to as ‘Virtual Autism.’ Such children may exhibit communication and behavioral issues.

Teachers and therapists are now noticing an array of behavioral changes in children as they start their schooling. This shift underlines the importance of reconsidering how much screen time is appropriate for our youngest generation.

However, it’s crucial to remember that “virtual autism” is not a recognized medical diagnosis, but rather a term that reflects a specific set of observations. This does not devalue its potential implications; instead, it serves as a reminder that more research is needed in this field to fully understand the extent and potential long-term effects of prolonged screen exposure on children.

As we continue to explore and understand this new perspective, it emphasizes the need for balance in children’s lives. Yes, digital tools can be powerful sources of learning and entertainment. Still they should be used in moderation, supplementing and not replacing real-life interactions and activities that stimulate a child’s physical, social, and emotional development.

In the era of digitization, “virtual autism” stands as a call for parents, educators, and policy-makers alike to consider the possible implications of a technology-saturated childhood and to strive for a balanced approach to screen time.

Symptoms of Virtual Autism 

1. Hyperactivity
2. Inattention
3. Decreased interest in play activities
4. Speech delay
5. Lack of social interaction
6. Mood swings
7. Decreased cognition

Difference between Autism and virtual Autism 

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition whereas Virtual Autism caused due to excessive screen exposure.

How can one prevent Virtual Autism?

• Make the child to interact
• Engage the child with nature 
• Allow the child to explore nature instead of giving mobile phones, Ipads 
• Reduce screen time
• Face-face interaction
• Group play activities 
• Quality time with parents –bedtime stories, playing together,cooking together

Best Ayurvedic Treatment for Autism in Kerala – Sanjeevanam Way

Sanjeevanam Ayurveda Hospital, Kochi is one of the best autism centers in Kerala manages autism based on unmada chikitsa with a multidimensional approach by incorporating herbal medication, bio-purificatory principles of Ayurveda, tailored diet, counseling, speech therapy, and yogic practices. Multimodal individualized therapy brings significant improvements in day to day life of autistic kids 

Snehapanam,siropichu,mridusneha sodhana ,niruha and sneha vasthi ,nasya ,anjana ,utasadanam ,abhyangam ,thalapothichil , Dhara are some procedure-based therapies done in the autistic child. Sanjeevanam also offers Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala for various other conditions, ensuring personalized care and holistic healing.