Question: Can An Autism Treatment Improve the Core Symptoms of Autism?
Can An Autism Treatment Improve the Core Symptoms of Autism?
Answer: The answer to this question is a qualified yes. That is, many treatments are available that claim to improve or even cure the core symptoms of autism (social communications deficits and related issues). Some have well-regarded research behind them; some have controversial research behind them; and some have almost no research behind them. Among the best-regarded of these treatments is ; among the most controversial is chelation (removal of metals from the body).
In fact, however, most of the treatments provided for people with autism do NOT treat core symptoms. Rather, they treat symptoms that are peripheral to or related to those core symptoms. For example, many people with autism also have problems with hyper- or hypo-sensitivity to light, sound, touch, taste and smell. To help remediate these sensitivities, some parents choose to work with a Sensory Integration therapist (a form of occupational therapist).
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