When is multiple sclerosis typically diagnosed. What are the common symptoms of MS. How do different types of MS manifest. What factors influence the age of MS onset. Who is at higher risk for developing MS.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis: Age of Onset and Diagnosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune condition that can affect individuals at various stages of life. While the disease can manifest at any age, it most commonly emerges during early adulthood. To provide a comprehensive understanding of MS and its onset, let’s explore the typical age range for diagnosis and the factors that influence it.

Typical Age Range for MS Diagnosis

The majority of MS cases are diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 20 and 40. This period represents the peak onset for the condition, with many people experiencing their first symptoms during these crucial decades of life. However, it’s important to note that MS can develop outside of this age range as well.

Early-Onset MS

Early-onset MS, also known as pediatric MS, occurs when the condition manifests in childhood or adolescence. While less common, it’s not unheard of for children and teenagers to receive an MS diagnosis. The symptoms in early-onset cases are generally similar to those experienced by adults, but with a higher prevalence of seizures.

Late-Onset MS

On the other end of the spectrum, late-onset MS refers to cases diagnosed after the age of 50. Approximately 5% of MS cases fall into this category. While the symptoms may be similar to those in younger adults, the progression of late-onset MS tends to be more rapid.

Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

MS can present with a wide array of symptoms, varying in severity and duration. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and proper management of the condition.

• Numbness and tingling
• Fatigue
• Vision problems
• Muscle spasms, stiffness, or weakness
• Pain

These symptoms can manifest differently in each individual, and their intensity may fluctuate over time. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or recurring symptoms that align with those of MS.

How do MS symptoms impact daily life?

The impact of MS symptoms on daily life can vary greatly. While many individuals with MS experience mild symptoms and lead relatively normal lives, others may face challenges with basic activities such as walking, speaking, or writing. The unpredictable nature of MS means that symptoms can come and go, making it essential for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition effectively.

Types of Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding the Different Forms

Multiple sclerosis is not a one-size-fits-all condition. There are several subtypes of MS, each with its own characteristics and progression patterns. Let’s explore the main types of MS to better understand how the disease can manifest.

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)

CIS is characterized by a single episode of MS-like symptoms lasting at least 24 hours. It may involve one symptom, such as vision loss, or multiple symptoms simultaneously. While not all individuals with CIS go on to develop MS, it is often considered the first stage of the disease.

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)

RRMS is the most common form of MS, affecting approximately 85% of people with the condition. It involves distinct episodes of symptom flare-ups (relapses) followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remissions). RRMS is typically diagnosed in individuals in their 20s or 30s.

Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)

PPMS affects about 15% of people with MS and is characterized by a steady worsening of neurological function from the onset of symptoms, without distinct relapses and remissions. This form of MS is generally diagnosed later in life, often around age 40 or 50.

Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)

SPMS is a stage that can follow RRMS, where there is a gradual worsening of symptoms over time, with or without relapses. The transition from RRMS to SPMS can occur at different rates for different individuals.

Factors Influencing MS Risk and Age of Onset

While the exact cause of MS remains unknown, researchers have identified several factors that may influence an individual’s risk of developing the condition and the age at which it manifests.

Genetic Factors

Although MS is not directly inherited, genetic predisposition plays a role in its development. Individuals with a family history of MS have a slightly higher risk of developing the condition themselves.

Environmental Factors

Geographic location appears to influence MS risk, with higher rates observed in regions farther from the equator. This suggests that factors such as vitamin D levels and sun exposure may play a role in MS development.

Gender and Ethnicity

MS is more prevalent in females, occurring three times more frequently in women than in men. Additionally, people of Northern European descent have a higher risk of developing MS compared to other ethnic groups.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Diagnosing MS can be challenging due to the variety of symptoms and their similarity to other neurological conditions. However, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the disease effectively.

Diagnostic Tools for MS

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
• Evoked potential tests
• Blood tests

These diagnostic tools help healthcare providers identify the presence of MS lesions and rule out other potential causes of symptoms.

Treatment Options for MS

While there is no cure for MS, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression:

1. Disease-modifying therapies
2. Symptom management medications
3. Physical therapy and rehabilitation
4. Lifestyle modifications
5. Complementary and alternative therapies

The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s specific type of MS, symptom severity, and overall health status.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis: Coping Strategies and Support

A diagnosis of MS can be life-changing, but with proper support and management, many individuals lead fulfilling lives. Developing effective coping strategies is essential for maintaining quality of life while living with MS.

How can individuals with MS maintain a high quality of life?

Maintaining a high quality of life with MS involves a multifaceted approach:

• Adhering to treatment plans and medications
• Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques and mindfulness
• Seeking emotional support from family, friends, and support groups
• Staying informed about MS research and treatment advancements

By implementing these strategies and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals with MS can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain their independence.

Research and Future Outlook for Multiple Sclerosis

The field of MS research is rapidly evolving, with ongoing studies aimed at better understanding the disease mechanisms, improving diagnostic techniques, and developing more effective treatments.

Promising Areas of MS Research

• Stem cell therapy
• Neuroprotective agents
• Personalized medicine approaches
• Novel imaging techniques for early detection
• Gene therapy and editing

These research areas hold promise for improving MS management and potentially developing curative treatments in the future.

What advancements can we expect in MS treatment in the coming years?

As research progresses, we can anticipate several advancements in MS treatment:

• More targeted and effective disease-modifying therapies
• Improved methods for repairing myelin damage
• Enhanced techniques for managing MS symptoms
• Better understanding of MS subtypes and personalized treatment approaches
• Potential breakthroughs in preventing MS onset in high-risk individuals

These advancements offer hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with MS.

Raising Awareness and Supporting the MS Community

Increasing public awareness about multiple sclerosis is crucial for promoting early diagnosis, improving access to care, and fostering a supportive environment for those affected by the condition.

How can individuals contribute to MS awareness and support?

There are numerous ways to get involved and support the MS community:

• Participate in MS awareness events and fundraisers
• Volunteer with MS organizations and support groups
• Share accurate information about MS on social media
• Advocate for policies that support MS research and patient care
• Offer support to friends or family members living with MS

By working together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis is a complex and challenging condition that affects individuals across a wide age range. While the typical age of onset is between 20 and 40 years old, MS can develop in children, adolescents, and older adults as well. Understanding the various types of MS, recognizing common symptoms, and being aware of risk factors can help in early detection and management of the disease. With ongoing research and advancements in treatment options, the outlook for individuals living with MS continues to improve. By raising awareness and supporting the MS community, we can work towards a future where MS has less impact on people’s lives and where effective treatments or even a cure may become a reality.

MS age of onset: When is it diagnosed?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can start at any age, but it generally appears when people are in their 20s through 40s. Around 5% of people with MS have late-onset MS, which means it starts after the age of 50 years.

Early-onset MS starts in childhood. Late-onset MS, on the other hand, can begin after the age of 50 years. The symptoms of these two conditions generally do not differ much, but they can range in severity.

The exact cause of MS is not clear. However, experts believe it to be an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its tissues.

This article discusses when initial MS symptoms generally appear, and the typical age at which people receive a diagnosis. It also looks at the symptoms, types of diagnoses, and treatment.

The age of onset of MS for most people ranges from 20–40 years. Some people may receive a diagnosis at the onset. Others, however, may not get a diagnosis until years later. There is no cure for MS, meaning it is a lifelong condition.

The condition may start to develop after 50 years of age, in which case, doctors will refer to it as late-onset MS. Late-onset MS accounts for about 5% of people with MS. The symptoms are similar to those that occur in younger adults, but the condition’s progression is faster.

MS can also start in a person’s childhood and teen years. Doctors call this early-onset MS. Symptoms do not differ significantly from adult-onset MS, but research shows seizures are generally more common.

MS has an unpredictable course involving various symptoms, relapses, and remissions. The majority of people with MS have mild symptoms. However, some individuals experience difficulty with some actions, such as walking, speaking, and writing. Common symptoms of MS include:

• numbness and tingling
• fatigue
• vision problems
• muscle spasms, stiffness, or weakness
• pain

Learn more about the symptoms of MS here.

There are multiple different subtypes of MS that may have different symptoms.

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

CIS is a single episode of symptoms that may suggest that a person has MS. Experts believe it occurs due to an inflammatory condition of the brain or spinal cord. CIS symptoms last at least 24 hours. Some people with CIS will go on to develop MS while others may not.

There may only be a single symptom, such as vision loss, or multiple symptoms, such as vision loss alongside tingling or numbness in the legs.

When a person has CIS, a doctor will order an MRI scan to determine whether they have brain lesions similar to MS.

Brain lesions

In general, the presence of MRI-detected brain lesions means that a person may have a 60–80% risk of developing MS within several years. However, the absence of lesions suggests a 20–30% likelihood of developing MS within the same time frame.

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)

About 85% of people with MS have the subtype called RRMS. It involves episodes of attacks that develop over a few days and last at least 24 hours but not more than 1–2 months. Between attacks, symptoms may either decrease or disappear.

Most individuals who have RRMS receive a diagnosis when they are in their 20s or 30s. Aside from numbness, tiredness, and stiffness, the most common RRMS symptoms a person may experience include problems with their vision, thinking, bowel, and bladder.

Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)

About 15% of people with MS have a subtype called PPMS. Instead of relapses and remissions, individuals with PPMS experience a disability that progresses from the onset. However, PPMS can involve brief periods when the condition is stable.

People typically experience the onset of PPMS 10 years later than people with RRMS. Individuals with this subtype often experience more challenges with walking and remaining in the workforce. They may also need help performing everyday activities.

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS)

People who live with SPMS experience a gradual worsening of symptoms as time goes by. Relapses usually disappear as the condition progresses. Individuals with SPMS experience nerve loss or damage that becomes steadily more severe.

Before using disease-modifying therapies, about half of those with an RRMS diagnosis might transition to SPMS within 10 years, while almost all would transition to SPMS within 25 years.

However, the effect of disease-modifying treatments on altering or delaying the SPMS transition is unclear.

Research shows that MS affects many people, but there are certain populations in which MS is more common. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS):

• MS is three times more common in females than in males.
• The condition is more common in states that are further away from the equator.
• Although MS occurs in people of most ancestries, it is more common in people of northern European descent.

In terms of specific risk factors for MS, the NMSS lists several, including:

• vitamin D deficiency
• obesity in childhood and adolescence
• smoking
• bacteria and viruses

Diagnosing MS can be difficult and time consuming because there is no single test that can identify it. In addition, MS symptoms fluctuate and vary, making an accurate diagnosis challenging to obtain.

There is, however, an accepted diagnosis of MS called the 2017 McDonald Criteria. To diagnose the condition, doctors will look at a person’s:

• medical history
• physical examination findings
• blood tests
• imaging tests, such as an MRI scan
• visual tests
• spinal fluid analysis

Doctors assess the progression of MS (dissemination in time) and the parts of the body it affects (dissemination in space).

For dissemination in space, doctors will use imaging tests to look for two or more MS lesions, or one lesion and one clinical attack affecting the central nervous system.

For dissemination in time, they will look for:

• at least two MS attacks that occurred at different times
• MS lesions
• new lesion development between MRI scans
• the presence of oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid

Learn more about the tests for an MS diagnosis here.

Many individuals with MS may be able to manage their condition without therapy.

However, a person may want to consider options that can help manage their MS and its symptoms to maintain their quality of life. These options may include:

• rehabilitation
• complimentary or alternative medication
• relapse management

Several medications can help a person manage their MS.

Disease-modifying therapies

If a doctor decides that medication is necessary, they may prescribe disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). These drugs delay the progression of MS, reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, and limit new activity.

These DMTs may be injectable, oral, or intravenous infusions.

Injectable medications include:

• Avonex (interferon beta-1a)
• Betaseron (interferon beta-1b)
• Extavia (interferon beta-1b)
• Glatiramer Acetate Injection (glatiramer acetate)
• Glatopa (glatiramer acetate)
• Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a)
• Rebif (interferon beta-1a)
• Kesimpta (ofatumumab)
• Copaxone (glatiramer acetate)

Oral medications include:

• Aubagio (teriflunomide)
• Gilenya (fingolimod)
• Ponvory (ponesimod)
• Zeposia (ozanimod)
• Bafiertam (monomethyl fumarate)
• Dimethyl Fumarate (dimethyl fumarate)
• Mavenclad (cladribine)
• Mayzent (siponimod)
• Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate)
• Vumerity (diroximel fumarate)

Infusion medications include:

• Lemtrada (alemtuzumab)
• Novantrone (mitoxantrone)
• Ocrevus (ocrelizumab)
• Tysabri (natalizumab)

Not all MS medications will be suitable for all patients. Doctors will work with a patient to create a tailored treatment plan specific to their condition. Some people with MS may require a doctor to administer high-efficacy drugs throughout the whole therapy course, while a gradual increase in drug strength may work better for others.

Learn more about the full range of DMTs and other MS treatment options here.

Symptom management

Doctors may prescribe other prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help treat specific MS symptoms.

• Corticosteroids: These help reduce inflammation and may reduce flares.
• Pain relievers: Muscle contractions and nerve damage can cause various pains. Prescription and OTC pain relievers can reduce general pain and improve a person’s daily quality of life.
• Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants can treat and prevent muscle spasms that can occur in people with MS.
• Antidepressants: People with MS may experience adverse mental health symptoms. Antidepressants and antianxiety medications, among others, can help manage these symptoms.

Generally, the onset of multiple sclerosis is between 20–40 years of age, but the condition may appear at an earlier or later age.

Most individuals have a subtype of MS that alternates between relapses and remissions, while a minority have a subtype that involves regular progression from the onset.

A person may be able to reduce their risk of developing MS by getting regular exposure to sunlight, maintaining a moderate weight, and stopping smoking. After diagnosis, there are various treatment options.

MS age of onset: When is it diagnosed?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can start at any age, but it generally appears when people are in their 20s through 40s. Around 5% of people with MS have late-onset MS, which means it starts after the age of 50 years.

Early-onset MS starts in childhood. Late-onset MS, on the other hand, can begin after the age of 50 years. The symptoms of these two conditions generally do not differ much, but they can range in severity.

The exact cause of MS is not clear. However, experts believe it to be an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its tissues.

This article discusses when initial MS symptoms generally appear, and the typical age at which people receive a diagnosis. It also looks at the symptoms, types of diagnoses, and treatment.

The age of onset of MS for most people ranges from 20–40 years. Some people may receive a diagnosis at the onset. Others, however, may not get a diagnosis until years later. There is no cure for MS, meaning it is a lifelong condition.

The condition may start to develop after 50 years of age, in which case, doctors will refer to it as late-onset MS. Late-onset MS accounts for about 5% of people with MS. The symptoms are similar to those that occur in younger adults, but the condition’s progression is faster.

MS can also start in a person’s childhood and teen years. Doctors call this early-onset MS. Symptoms do not differ significantly from adult-onset MS, but research shows seizures are generally more common.

MS has an unpredictable course involving various symptoms, relapses, and remissions. The majority of people with MS have mild symptoms. However, some individuals experience difficulty with some actions, such as walking, speaking, and writing. Common symptoms of MS include:

• numbness and tingling
• fatigue
• vision problems
• muscle spasms, stiffness, or weakness
• pain

Learn more about the symptoms of MS here.

There are multiple different subtypes of MS that may have different symptoms.

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

CIS is a single episode of symptoms that may suggest that a person has MS. Experts believe it occurs due to an inflammatory condition of the brain or spinal cord. CIS symptoms last at least 24 hours. Some people with CIS will go on to develop MS while others may not.

There may only be a single symptom, such as vision loss, or multiple symptoms, such as vision loss alongside tingling or numbness in the legs.

When a person has CIS, a doctor will order an MRI scan to determine whether they have brain lesions similar to MS.

Brain lesions

In general, the presence of MRI-detected brain lesions means that a person may have a 60–80% risk of developing MS within several years. However, the absence of lesions suggests a 20–30% likelihood of developing MS within the same time frame.

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)

About 85% of people with MS have the subtype called RRMS. It involves episodes of attacks that develop over a few days and last at least 24 hours but not more than 1–2 months. Between attacks, symptoms may either decrease or disappear.

Most individuals who have RRMS receive a diagnosis when they are in their 20s or 30s. Aside from numbness, tiredness, and stiffness, the most common RRMS symptoms a person may experience include problems with their vision, thinking, bowel, and bladder.

Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)

About 15% of people with MS have a subtype called PPMS. Instead of relapses and remissions, individuals with PPMS experience a disability that progresses from the onset. However, PPMS can involve brief periods when the condition is stable.

People typically experience the onset of PPMS 10 years later than people with RRMS. Individuals with this subtype often experience more challenges with walking and remaining in the workforce. They may also need help performing everyday activities.

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS)

People who live with SPMS experience a gradual worsening of symptoms as time goes by. Relapses usually disappear as the condition progresses. Individuals with SPMS experience nerve loss or damage that becomes steadily more severe.

Before using disease-modifying therapies, about half of those with an RRMS diagnosis might transition to SPMS within 10 years, while almost all would transition to SPMS within 25 years.

However, the effect of disease-modifying treatments on altering or delaying the SPMS transition is unclear.

Research shows that MS affects many people, but there are certain populations in which MS is more common. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS):

• MS is three times more common in females than in males.
• The condition is more common in states that are further away from the equator.
• Although MS occurs in people of most ancestries, it is more common in people of northern European descent.

In terms of specific risk factors for MS, the NMSS lists several, including:

• vitamin D deficiency
• obesity in childhood and adolescence
• smoking
• bacteria and viruses

Diagnosing MS can be difficult and time consuming because there is no single test that can identify it. In addition, MS symptoms fluctuate and vary, making an accurate diagnosis challenging to obtain.

There is, however, an accepted diagnosis of MS called the 2017 McDonald Criteria. To diagnose the condition, doctors will look at a person’s:

• medical history
• physical examination findings
• blood tests
• imaging tests, such as an MRI scan
• visual tests
• spinal fluid analysis

Doctors assess the progression of MS (dissemination in time) and the parts of the body it affects (dissemination in space).

For dissemination in space, doctors will use imaging tests to look for two or more MS lesions, or one lesion and one clinical attack affecting the central nervous system.

For dissemination in time, they will look for:

• at least two MS attacks that occurred at different times
• MS lesions
• new lesion development between MRI scans
• the presence of oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid

Learn more about the tests for an MS diagnosis here.

Many individuals with MS may be able to manage their condition without therapy.

However, a person may want to consider options that can help manage their MS and its symptoms to maintain their quality of life. These options may include:

• rehabilitation
• complimentary or alternative medication
• relapse management

Several medications can help a person manage their MS.

Disease-modifying therapies

If a doctor decides that medication is necessary, they may prescribe disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). These drugs delay the progression of MS, reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, and limit new activity.

These DMTs may be injectable, oral, or intravenous infusions.

Injectable medications include:

• Avonex (interferon beta-1a)
• Betaseron (interferon beta-1b)
• Extavia (interferon beta-1b)
• Glatiramer Acetate Injection (glatiramer acetate)
• Glatopa (glatiramer acetate)
• Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a)
• Rebif (interferon beta-1a)
• Kesimpta (ofatumumab)
• Copaxone (glatiramer acetate)

Oral medications include:

• Aubagio (teriflunomide)
• Gilenya (fingolimod)
• Ponvory (ponesimod)
• Zeposia (ozanimod)
• Bafiertam (monomethyl fumarate)
• Dimethyl Fumarate (dimethyl fumarate)
• Mavenclad (cladribine)
• Mayzent (siponimod)
• Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate)
• Vumerity (diroximel fumarate)

Infusion medications include:

• Lemtrada (alemtuzumab)
• Novantrone (mitoxantrone)
• Ocrevus (ocrelizumab)
• Tysabri (natalizumab)

Not all MS medications will be suitable for all patients. Doctors will work with a patient to create a tailored treatment plan specific to their condition. Some people with MS may require a doctor to administer high-efficacy drugs throughout the whole therapy course, while a gradual increase in drug strength may work better for others.

Learn more about the full range of DMTs and other MS treatment options here.

Symptom management

Doctors may prescribe other prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help treat specific MS symptoms.

• Corticosteroids: These help reduce inflammation and may reduce flares.
• Pain relievers: Muscle contractions and nerve damage can cause various pains. Prescription and OTC pain relievers can reduce general pain and improve a person’s daily quality of life.
• Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants can treat and prevent muscle spasms that can occur in people with MS.
• Antidepressants: People with MS may experience adverse mental health symptoms. Antidepressants and antianxiety medications, among others, can help manage these symptoms.

Generally, the onset of multiple sclerosis is between 20–40 years of age, but the condition may appear at an earlier or later age.

Most individuals have a subtype of MS that alternates between relapses and remissions, while a minority have a subtype that involves regular progression from the onset.

A person may be able to reduce their risk of developing MS by getting regular exposure to sunlight, maintaining a moderate weight, and stopping smoking. After diagnosis, there are various treatment options.

Exclusion of autism in young children

July 30, 2018

Voronin Nikolai

Neuropsychologist, Ph.D.

Autism is manifested by the lack of ability to interact with the outside world, communication disorders.

Most often, childhood autism manifests itself at 2. 5-3 years. It is during this period that speech disorders and isolation in children are more pronounced.

However, the first signs of autistic behavior are often seen at an early age, before 1 year of age. It can be difficult for parents to independently distinguish the signs of autism, so it is no coincidence that children at the age of one year are recommended to consult a psychiatrist.

Do not be afraid to consult a psychiatrist! When parents of adolescents with behavioral problems come to us, we most often reveal that in childhood they could have had a developmental distortion of the autistic type, and with timely treatment, difficulties could have been avoided.

What should parents pay attention to? Symptoms of autism in children.

1. Violations of social contacts and interaction with others

• The child practically does not ask to be held, it is more comfortable for him to lie in the crib.

• The child does not assume a physiological position when breastfeeding.

• The child is inactive, not as lively as peers.

• The child does not respond to new toys, sounds, can stare at one point for a long time.

• The child does not respond to his name (usually the first thing parents go to is an audiologist to check their hearing; if everything is fine with hearing, a psychiatrist should be consulted).

• When adults or other children try to make contact with the child, he either removes his hands or moves to the side, or reacts aggressively, may throw something, cry.

• The child throws the toy instead of handing it to avoid contact.

• As the child grows older, he can go deeper into his inner world; he does not know how and does not want to communicate with family members, rarely seeks help, starts trying to serve himself early, does not use the word “give”, it is easier for him to take it himself or achieve his scandal.

• Often children do not respond to discomfort, such as a full diaper; don’t cry or draw attention to themselves.

• There is no eye contact, the child does not fix his gaze on objects, toys.

2. Limited interests and features of the game

• The child chooses one toy and plays only with it for a long time. Can choose as a toy something that is not intended for the game – ropes, rags.

• The stereotypical nature of the game: placing toys in the same order, playing with a certain number of toys, and if one is lost, a scandal can occur.

• Another example – a girl can not play with dolls, like the rest – not to change clothes, not to put her to bed, but simply carry her with her, maximum – iron her.

• Games that require fantasy and imagination rarely captivate autistic children.

• Children often prefer quieter games (eg puzzles, building blocks).

3. Tendency to repeat actions, the so-called stereotypy

• Rocking the whole body from foot to foot, stereotypical head turn, stereotypical shoulder clamping.

• Stereotypes observed in speech are called echolalia. It can be manipulations with sounds, words, phrases. At the same time, children constantly repeat words, cliches, cliché phrases that they heard from adults or on TV without realizing their meaning.

• Stereotypical games – turning on / off the light, pouring water from glass to glass, pouring sand, cereals. It is difficult for a child to switch from this activity.

• The child gets acquainted with the outside world not through interaction with others, but independently. He can lick, sniff objects.

• Clothes: the child chooses certain things and wears only them, the sequence of dressing and undressing may be important for him.

• Eating behavior: the child is selective in food, chooses only a certain range of products. In the most severe cases, this may be a complete refusal to eat. In mild cases – rituals: eats food in a certain order, at certain hours. He chooses dishes not by taste, but by shape, by color. Often, for example, a child only eats a certain shape of pasta.

4. Intellectual disorders

The main feature of the disease is selective intelligence. Autistic people may excel in math, art, and music, but lag far behind in other subjects. Savantism is a phenomenon where an autistic person is very pronouncedly gifted in one specific area. Some autistic people are able to play a tune accurately after hearing it only once, or to calculate the most complex examples in their minds.

5. Violation of the instinct of self-preservation

• Autoaggression occurs in 1/3 of children with autism. Aggression is one of the main forms of response to what is happening, and since children are not inclined to communicate with others, they show this aggression towards themselves (they can beat themselves, bite, bang their heads against the crib).

• Very often these children lack a “sense of edge”. This can be observed even in early childhood, when the child hangs from the side of the crib, tries to get out of the stroller – the child has no fear.

• Can run away from parents without looking back. If parents specifically hide in order to test the reaction, this reaction is often not.

• Can climb a slide on a playground that is too old for him.

• What is especially dangerous, children can run out onto the roadway, climb onto the windowsill with the window open.

6. ADHD

More often than other children, autistic children have hyperactive behavior. They are disinhibited and disorganized. Such children are in constant motion, they can hardly stay in one place, they do not respond to requests during classes, there are difficulties in controlling movements (“like on hinges”).

7. Verbal communication disorders

• Speech disorders occur in all forms of autism. Speech may develop with a delay or not develop at all. Also, at the initial stages of development, speech may appear earlier than among peers, but at 1.5-2 years there is a regression – the child stops talking to others, but at the same time can fully speak to himself.

• A peculiar intonation with a predominance of high tones at the end of a sentence, or the so-called “bird speech” or its own language, when the child talks to himself “under his breath.”

• Often children do not talk to others, but speech is present in the game. The reason is the unwillingness to interact with the outside world.

With delayed speech development, you can contact a speech pathologist. If a defectologist suspects autistic disorders, he refers to a psychiatrist. The main thing is to contact a specialist, and not be alone with this problem and not wait for everything to normalize by the age of three. It is better to immediately exclude the disease.

What to pay attention to in kindergarten? (symptoms of early autism in children after 1 year)

• Aggression towards others, especially when the child’s personal space is violated.

• The child plays away from the others.

• Children and caregivers complain about the child because he cannot interact with others, his play is destructive, he can interfere with other children’s play.

• Compulsive behavior – the intentional performance of actions according to certain rules, even if they go against the generally accepted ones.

Modern methods of diagnosing autism in children

1. Psychiatric consultation . This is a conversation with parents and observation of the child in free play. The doctor watches how the baby behaves, how it interacts with parents, whether it looks into the eyes, whether it puts objects in its hands, whether it throws it on the floor. If the child speaks, pay attention to speech, intonation, construction of phrases. The doctor carefully collects the history of the life and development of the child, the history of the mother’s pregnancy. It is important when he began to utter the first sounds, when he stood up, crawled, began to walk, what was his gait.

2. Speech therapist consultation to rule out autistic speech. The doctor determines whether speech delay is related to autism or other disorders. Children with autism have a peculiar development of sound pronunciation, and an experienced speech therapist will immediately distinguish it.

3. Consultation with a neuropsychologist to identify which developmental milestones the child may have missed.

4. Screening with tests (Autism Diagnosis Scales) :

• D. Wexler intelligence test

Tests (cards, tasks for children) aimed at assessing general awareness, stock of knowledge and ideas about the world, the ability to assimilate and process information, and cognitive abilities.

• Kaufman intelligence test

Tests to determine the strengths and weaknesses of information processing processes: visual and auditory memory, assimilation of instructions, planning a sequence of actions.

• Raven Progressive Matrices

Allows you to determine the level of intellectual development of the child. Each series of tables contains tasks of increasing difficulty. Raven’s progressive matrices are designed to determine the level of mental development in primary school children with any level of speech development.

Questionnaires for parents :

• Sensorimotor Development Scales (ages 0-5)

To be filled in during the conversation with parents and observation of the child. They allow you to evaluate various aspects of motor and psychological development in accordance with age standards.

• Vanderbilt ADHD symptom questionnaire

Allows you to assess the severity of symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity in various areas of the child’s life.

• CARS Autism Rating Scale

One of the most commonly used tests for autism symptoms. The scale includes 15 categories.

Tests by defectologist and psychologist :

• ADOS

The gold standard for diagnosing autism. Allows in a playful way to determine deviations in the communication skills of the child. The child is offered “communicative provocations” in which an ordinary child behaves in a “normal” way, a child with autism behaves differently. After the observation, a calculation is made of which behavior was more common or “autistic”. According to the results of the calculation, a diagnosis is established.

• ADI-r

A detailed survey that provides all the information needed to establish a diagnosis of autism and assess related mental disorders.

• PEP scale

Identification of the child’s individual characteristics, characteristics of his communication capabilities, cognitive activity, emotional-volitional sphere, working capacity, etc. The identified features are taken into account when drawing up an individual plan for corrective and developmental work with the child.

Autism Help at EMC

If the diagnosis is established, it is necessary to immediately start working with the child, and this work must be comprehensive:

• The psychiatrist selects drug therapy (if abnormalities are detected before the age of 1 year, medications can often be dispensed with).

• A psychologist, a neuropsychologist and a speech pathologist draw up an autism correction program and regularly work with the child, conducting various classes, tests, and games.

To achieve the best result, the complex work of specialists is important, and not just one psychiatrist. It is important not to waste time, but to correct autism at an early age.

Mental and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents

In adolescence, a person goes through a complex process of formation. Physical, emotional and social changes seriously affect adolescents, increasing their vulnerability to mental disorders. The result is behavioral disorders, health problems and other negative manifestations, in particular depression, which can lead to suicide. Most mental and behavioral disorders can be treated and corrected – you can save the health and life of a teenager by contacting a doctor in time.

Why children and adolescents develop mental and behavioral disorders

The child is a “blank slate”, whose personality begins to form from the moment of his birth. The kid gradually learns to recognize others, monitors their reactions and relationships, copies the elders. He is highly influenced by adults, does not have critical thinking skills.

Many of the life attitudes that will guide him in his adult life are laid down in the “outline of personality” at this particular time. Nervous and negative atmosphere at home, quarrels, violence and other negative factors can cause serious harm to the child’s psyche, greatly affect his behavior and health already during this period.

The child gradually grows and develops as he explores the world around him. At the age of 10, he enters a unique period – adolescence. A “hormonal explosion”, a change in the social status and attitudes of others, new problems and difficulties – all this knocks out the usual kidney from under the child’s feet. The personality continues to develop, but in many aspects it becomes more vulnerable and susceptible to external influences.

During this period, it is especially important to protect adolescents from risk factors and severe shocks that can interfere with further development, as well as create health and mental problems in the future.

15% of children and adolescents under the age of 18 have a diagnosed emotional disorder, and less than half of them receive the necessary treatment on time. In another 10-20% of children at this age, mental disorders are not properly diagnosed at all.

The problem is that many parents and adolescents themselves are not aware of the risks and are afraid to seek medical help. Many are afraid that others will find out about the visit to a psychiatrist, and this will put an end to the future successful career or normal life of the child.

But if mental illnesses are not treated in childhood and adolescence, they can become so ingrained in the personality that it will be impossible to cure them in adulthood. Most incurable mental illnesses are mental disorders that can be dealt with during childhood and adolescence.

Specialists of the KORSAKOV clinic know how to successfully solve the mental and behavioral problems of adolescents and children. Qualified doctors conduct a thorough examination, prescribe effective drug therapy and psychotherapy. Modern treatments help prevent the development of serious mental illness and get rid of existing disorders .

Symptoms of mental and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents

Anxiety, crying, whims are typical episodes in the behavior of many children. Adolescence is characterized by periods of rebelliousness, increased emotionality. It is important to understand when normal behavior is replaced by pathology.

It is necessary to consult a psychiatrist if a child or adolescent has:

• aggression;
• nervous tics;
• absenteeism from school;
• communication problems;
• strange body movements;
• lethargy, lethargy;
• frequent mood swings;
• persistent rule violations;
• daily fears or anxieties;
• deterioration or impairment of memory.

Even if these signs of a mental disorder are present, the child or adolescent may not be present. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor based on a professional examination. If there is no disorder, the specialist may schedule several sessions with a psychologist who can help identify the problem and help resolve it.

We recommend checking the child’s or adolescent’s mental state in order to prevent a problem and identify it at an early stage.

What are mental and behavioral disorders in adolescents

Children and adolescents may present with a variety of psychiatric disorders. They can be roughly divided into three groups, although some disorders from different groups can be combined with each other:

1. Behavioral disorders – increased conflict and systematic violation of social norms. These are socialization disorders that can be expressed, for example, in theft, constant lying, disruption of classes. The result of this disorder is usually teenage alcoholism and drug addiction. The reason for the appearance of such disorders is considered to be excessive pressure or insufficient participation of parents in the life of a child or adolescent.
2. Emotional disorders – social phobia, increased anxiety, withdrawal from communication with peers. These disorders are often the result of a traumatic situation, for example, an unhealthy family atmosphere, regular fears. Also, an emotional disorder can provoke the presence of mental disorders in one of the parents.
3. Developmental disorders – problems with speech (organization and writing), slow thinking, impaired attention and memory. A child or teenager with such disorders lags behind their peers in learning and poorly learns new knowledge. Developmental delay is not considered a disorder in the full sense of the word. But because of it, behavioral disorders often occur.

The disorder may appear in a child suddenly, without obvious prerequisites. For example, parents may not be aware of the difficulties (and emotional pressure, bullying) at school, deep feelings and even acts of violence against the child, which he is afraid to talk about.

It is dangerous to think that nothing bad can happen to a child or teenager – no one is immune from accidents. It is better to check the child’s condition once than to try to solve the problem on your own, aggravate it or try to ignore it.

Treatment of mental and behavioral disorders in adolescents and children

Clinic “KORSAKOV” provides professional psychiatric and psychological assistance to children and adolescents. In addition, consultations are held with their parents and relatives, if necessary, sessions of family psychotherapy. Our specialists work to restore mental health and emotional stability to children and adolescents.

When working with children and adolescents, we use:

• physiotherapy;
• medical treatment;
• cognitive behavioral therapy;
• age-adapted psychotherapeutic techniques.

An integrated approach to treatment allows you to achieve a solution to the problem in the shortest possible time and consolidate a successful result. In each case, therapy is selected individually. It is not limited to drugs or procedures performed in the clinic. Working with parents and relatives is aimed at developing the right attitude towards the child, correcting his upbringing and eliminating stressful and negative factors in the family circle.

The optimal course of treatment for each patient includes the joint work of a psychotherapist and a psychologist, and, if necessary, a therapist and a physiotherapist.

What problems are solved as a result of treatment:

• learning and behavior improves;
• communication with peers is normalized;
• the consequences of psychological trauma are minimized.

Special programs have been developed for children and adolescents with hyperactivity, behavioral and social skills problems. They help correct unwanted behavior and effectively reinforce the result.

The KORSAKOV clinic takes care of the future of children and adolescents not only through effective therapy. We ensure complete confidentiality of treatment – information about it is not transferred to third parties, there is no registration.

Mental and behavioral disorders can develop into serious diseases, lead to a decrease in the quality of life, drug addiction, alcoholism and other unfortunate consequences.