Asperger Syndrome (AS) neurobiological or developmental disorder of specific symptoms diagnosed in children about three years of age or some cases early as infancy, part of a group of conditions called autism (Impairs social interaction and communication, and cause restricted and repetitive behaviors 3) spectrum disorder (Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs)) (2) : Evaluated as a milder end of the spectrum. 1 In 1944, Vietnamese physician Hans Asperger first observed and described his findings of AS, however not widely read because it was published in Germany. In 1981, English physician Lorna Wing confirmed Dr. Asperger findings and published a series of case studies, which she referred to as ‘Asperger’s syndrome’. In 1994, the American Psychiatric Association’s added Asperger syndrome to its reference book ‘Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). 2
Conservatively estimated two out of every 10,000 children have Asperger Syndrome. “Boys are three to four times more likely than girls to have AS”. 2 Predominant symptom of Asperger syndrome among children obsessive interest in one or two specific narrow subjects, such as weather, baseball statistics or snakes. 4 “Children with AS want to know everything about their topic of interest and their conversations with others will be about little else.” The child will randomly disclose facts regarding a particular subject at an endless pace of statistical information and drawing upon no conclusion 2 Otherwise repetitive behaviors is common, such as repeating a poem several times or repeatedly unbuttoning and buttoning a jacket. 5 Common attribute of AS: “Dislikes any changes in routines”. 6 A child diagnosed with AS can have a high IQ level but live “into a world that is rigid” according to a mother of daughter diagnosed with Asperger syndrome. 12 The child’s speech will not modulate from a high fast and rigid pitch sound regardless of their surroundings. 2 However, AS children have no speech delay compared to children who have autism. 11 Asperger Syndrome children lack eye contact, awkward body postures or few facial expressions are displayed as unusual nonverbal way to communicate. Developmental skills are impeded by the child moving clumsily or bouncy with poor coordination, thus being unable to pedal a bike, catch a ball or climb outdoor play equipment. 4 Compared to severe grades of autism, AS children make more of an effort to have friends and engage in activities with others. Asperger Syndrome tends to frustrate and cause emotional distress for teenagers, who want to interact and socialize normally with other teens. They may be immature for their age and be naive and too trusting, which can lead to teasing and bullying.” 6 Symptoms of Asperger syndrome is different in every child. 1
Asperger Syndrome frequently is misdiagnosed during childhood years until adulthood for other neurological disorders including attention – deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette’s syndrome, obsessive – compulsive disorder (OCD) or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). According to researchers Asperger syndrome linked to abnormalities in the brain: The left frontal (forehead) region of the brain has abnormal large folds, damage to the left temporal lobe (“a part of the brain containing a sensory area associated with hearing”.) and the operculum (“a lid – like structure composed of portions of three adjoining brain lobes.”) observed to have abnormal small folds. Also, studying patients with AS discovered in the left parietal lobe of their brain, (Area associated to bodily sensations.) lower than normal blood supply. Asperger Syndrome is not connected to a childhood trauma, abuse or neglect. 5
Treatment options for Asperger Syndrome tailored according to specific symptoms. Communication and social skills training help educate AS children to speak in a normal rhythm or tone, and recognize the meaning of gestures, eye contact, sarcasm, tone of voice and humor. Cognitive behavior therapy works by eliminating problem behaviors including obsessions, interrupting, anger outbursts, and coping with anxiety. Also, therapy encompasses learned social behavior strategy to cope in various situations, such as in a new place or an event requiring lots of social demands. Medication prescribed to treat certain symptoms of Asperger Syndrome: Depression, anxiety, aggression, hyperactivity or inattention, but many children do not require any medication. 7 Depending upon the symptoms of AS, certain herbal ingredients may be part of a holistic treatment plan including St. John Wart, Melissa officinallis, Passiflora, and Chamomile. “Natural remedies may often contain a combination of ingredients for best affect. 15 Most professionals agree earlier intervention or treatment offer a better outcome. 2
‘The Australian Scale (Zero to six) For Asperger’s Syndrome’ written by M.S. Garnett and A.J. Attwood developed a questionnaire assist parents and professionals identify behaviors and abilities indicative of Asperger’s Syndrome in children during their primary school years. “Each question or statement has a rating with 0 (zero) as the ordinary level expected of a child of that age”. 8 Available in paperback ‘Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals’ by Tony Attwood (Author) and Lrna Wing (Foreword). The paperback provides identification (assessment test), treatment and care for both children and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome, from the author’s own practical experience as a Clinical Psychologist. 9
In 1950 the United States Congress created, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), located in Bethesda Maryland, one of 27 institutes comprising the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conducts biomedical research on brain and nervous system disorders.10 The NINDS award grants and support research to universities and other facilities, understand what causes Asperger Syndrome and effective treatment options. Among research being conducted examine any pattern of symptoms and DNA (identify associated genes) may link AS within families to specific neuropsychological profiles. Identifying the genetic link for Asperger Syndrome provide an essential means for early intervention for successful treatment. Scientist aware genetic link of Asperger syndrome tends to run in families. 2
A theory suggest symptoms of Asperger’s disorder may be significantly reduced by change in diet, but no conclusive evidence. Parents of Asperger’s syndrome reported their children have become more manageable when dairy products, sugar, gluten, wheat and some artificial colorants and preservatives like MSG and tartrazine are eliminated. A nutritionalist would provide more information. 14
Available online for Asperger’s Syndrome individuals and families: “The Asperger’s Store (http://www.aspergerstore.com) was founded as central place to provide products which can enhance the lives of individuals with Asperger Syndrome, as well as providing information and support for their family friends.” Many products available from this Web-Site (aspergerstore.com) found on Amazon.com. 13
References:
1.) Asperger’s syndrome – http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551
2.) Asperger Syndrome Fact Sheet – http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/asperger/detail_asperger.htm3.) Autism – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autism
3.) Autism – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autism
4.) Asperger’s syndrome – http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551/DSECTION=2
5.) Asperger’s disorder – http://www.answers.com/topic/asperger-s-syndrome?cat=health
6.) Austism Spectrum Disorders Health Center – http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/tc/aspergers-syndrome-symptoms
7.) Asperger’s Syndrome – http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551/DSECTION=6
8.) The Australian Scale for Asperger’s Syndrome – http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/aspergerscaleAttwood.html
9.) Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals (Paperback) – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1853025771/ref=nosim/oasisonlineasp07
10.) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke – http://www.nih.gov/about/almanac/organization/NINDS.htm
11.) Autism Society of America – http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=life_aspergers
12.) Aspergers offers unique challenges for parents – http://insidetoronto.com/news/Etobicoke/article/47366
13.) The Asperger’s Store – http://www.aspergerstore.com/
14.) My son has just been diagnosed with mild Aspergers. I am looking for suggestions for natural remedies. Thanks? – http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070129154134AA9egyC
15.) Asperger’s Syndrome – http://www.nativeremedies.com/ailment/aspergers-syndrome-asperger-disorder.html
