Asperger's syndrome is a form of autism spectrum disorder wherein patients tend to experience social and communication problems and limited, repetitive behavior patterns. Diagnosis and treatment of the disease are essential to help individuals with this disorder gain a higher level of self-sufficiency and functioning in society.
Function
Though treatment strategies for Asperger's vary depending on the severity of each case, generally the goal is to help the person function in society and to become self-reliant. In most courses of treatment for this syndrome, another primary aim is to improve the patient's communication skills and lower his sense of social anxiety.
Time Frame
Asperger's syndrome is a lifelong disorder, and treatment usually begins at the first sign of symptoms, which may emerge as early as 3 or 4 years old. Treatment for children and adolescents usually centers around managing social interactions and building self-confidence. Over time, the symptoms of Asperger's tend to even out and become less evident as the person learns to manage the condition.
By adulthood, people with this syndrome frequently have a good understanding of the challenges Asperger's presents and how they can best confront them. Adults with Asperger's are generally able to interpret social cues and to function well in communal settings.
Features
Treatment for Asperger's disorder is usually centered around three core goals; social-skills development, communication improvement, and behavior management. Patients with the syndrome often participate in group activities where they learn to interact with others plus one-on-one counseling sessions. Treatment for frequently co-existing conditions such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and social anxiety disorder is another main component of Asperger's care. Due to the prevalence of these simultaneous disorders, many people with Asperger's are also prescribed medicines and additional therapies.
Considerations
Asperger's treatment depends on the ability of the patient to adapt and function in various settings, as well as cognitive functioning. The higher the person's IQ, the more likely the patient is to thrive after receiving treatment. For Asperger's patients with lower social and cognitive functioning, a course of treatment similar to autism therapy is used.
Prevention/Solution
As with autism, scientists have not yet found a viable way to prevent Asperger's syndrome. Research conducted by Austrian doctor Hans Asperger indicates that the disorder is likely caused by genetic components, though no exact genes have yet been identified as causal factors.
While some groups say they believe the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine causes autism and Asperger's, there is no scientific evidence to validate this claim. The best line of defense is to diagnose and treat Asperger's as quickly as possible to equip the patient with the tools he'll need to cope with the disorder.
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