Although children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be as healthy as other children, keeping them that way can be a challenge. Routine doctor visits, for instance, can be especially trying for children with ASDs due to sensory sensitivities or communication difficulties. Issues such as sleep problems, unusual eating habits, and impulsive or aggressive behaviors can also threaten their health. Volkmar of the Yale University Child Study Center, and Wiesner, a pediatrician, experts in the field of autism, offer parents accessible and authoritative information for dealing with these challenges and understanding what’s most important to their child’s medical, nutritional, and behavioral well-being. HEALTHCARE FOR CHILDREN ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM covers the following Handling doctor visits and hospitalizations
Growth and nutrition
Safety issues at home, school, and in the community
Sleep
Seizures
Dental care
Sensory issues
Medications and behavior
Adolescent issues
Behavioral deterioration
Complementary and alternative treatments These pertinent subjects apply to most kids no matter where they fall on the autism spectrum. Issues are covered from birth through adolescence. Parents can find answers to help them understand symptoms and behaviors, evaluate medications or alternative therapies, communicate with healthcare professionals, and deal with many other healthcare concerns. Based on the authors’ years of clinical experience with hundreds of children with autism, this guide is an essential reference that should be on the shelf of every family with a child with an ASD.