Aspergers is a brain disorder that affects about 1% of the population, causing difficulties with socialization, communication, and imaginative play. Several social and behavioral problems characterize the condition. These problems include lack of interest in typical social activities, difficulty relating to close friends or family members, unusual interests such as obsessively collecting particular objects, or acting out repetitive behaviors (such as hand motions or speech patterns). In addition to these problems, the patient may also display extreme, seemingly uncharacteristic changes in moods, temperaments, and self-esteem.
Many children with Aspergers are referred for an Aspergers Test before being given treatment. This involves a comprehensive physical exam and interviews and structured questioning to find out information about his or her symptoms. A physical examination should reveal some hyperactivity signs.
Aspergers Test for a child with Aspergers includes evaluation for any mental disorders. These include ADHD, depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is essential to know what type of behavior is indicative of the specific condition so that appropriate treatments can be given.
Because Aspergers tends to run in families, the health care provider needs to determine if the child shares the same genetic makeup as his or her relatives. A complete medical history of the family, including details about any hospitalizations, birth defects, or previous illnesses, should be obtained. This will help in the diagnosis of the child and help in determining the best course of treatment.
The child’s parents should give a detailed observation report. This should include a description of the activities, including times when the child was excited or agitated, what he or she did at those times, and any reactions the child had to situations. Any physical contact the child had with another child, including sibling relationships, should also be documented.
To diagnose Aspergers, a series of tests will need to be conducted by a qualified doctor. One or more tests will need to be done to determine whether or not the child has a particular condition, such as hyperactivity. or anorexia. Other tests might include neuropsychological testing, which is done to determine if there is a neurological abnormality in the child’s brain. A behavioral diagnostic interview might be used to rule out other disorders that might mimic Aspergers.
In a typical Aspergers test, the child’s symptoms will be carefully described and interpreted by a qualified medical professional. The result of the test will help the doctor to rule out other conditions.
When Aspergers is suspected, there are many options available to the doctor. Since this is a complex disorder, treatment may take a period. Medication might be prescribed to calm the child and provide the best environment to encourage normal interaction between the child and others.