Index
1. What is Asperger syndrome?
2. Diagnosis and causes
Classification of Asperger syndrome
4. Symptoms
5. Diagnosis
6. Treatment
What is Asperger syndrome?
Asperger syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that particularly affects communication and social interaction. This disorder is included in the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Those who suffer from it also present difficulties in thinking flexibility, but unlike autism, they are characterized by having a fluent language and an average or even higher intellectual capacity than the rest of the population.
On the other hand, people with a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome usually have limited interests and unusual preoccupations towards a particular object or activity.
Diagnosis and causes
The causes of autism spectrum disorders are unknown, although certain predisposing factors are considered to exist, such as:
- Family history.
- Fragile X syndrome.
- Babies born before 26 weeks of gestation.
- Being diagnosed with Rett syndrome.
Classification of Asperger syndrome
There is only one type of Asperger syndrome, but it is classified into three groups according to the age at which it manifests itself and is finally diagnosed.
Thus, a distinction is made between Asperger syndrome in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
Symptoms
As we pointed out at the beginning, one of the most particular characteristics of Asperger syndrome is the difficulty of social interaction. However, there are many other indicators of this disorder.
- Emotional immaturity.
- Self-imposed routines.
- Limited interests.
- Feelings of incomprehension and loneliness.
- Difficulty in thinking flexibly. That is why it is common to present academic problems, timetable adaptation, change of teachers, etc.
- Difficulty to work in a team and to maintain social relationships of friendship or couple.
- Anxiety and depression.
- Perfectionism.
- Difficulty in decision making.
- They are very direct and say what they think at all times.
- Problems understanding jokes, metaphors and ironies.
Despite the different symptoms that the patient may present, it should be remembered that these manifest themselves differently in each individual, so an individual diagnosis will be necessary to identify their presence.
Diagnosis
For the diagnosis of Asperger syndrome, the specialist will evaluate whether the patient presents problems in social interaction, carries out repetitive patterns and shows limited interest in certain activities.
On the other hand, it should also determine that there is no significant delay in cognitive development and language.
Some of the most common tests that are usually performed are:
- Genetic evaluation.
- Neurological evaluation.
- Tests to check psychomotor function.
- Cognitive tests.
In children an interview with the parents is also requested and during adulthood it is checked whether or not the patient has skills to lead an independent life.
The diagnosis is also complemented with the closest relatives.
Treatment
Since it is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how the nervous system is developed and configured, there is no treatment that can prevent or cure it.
However, there are guidelines and support systems that have a psychoeducational character and whose function is to promote the quality of life of individuals and their families.
In addition, we also work to enhance their strengths and promote their inclusion and social participation. In other words, treatment is aimed at maximizing developmental, learning and social interaction skills.
Finally, it should be noted that it is important to provide self-control tools and help them to have a positive self-image.