Does it just mean autism?
With my son while I was pregnant I took very good care of myself however, I was sick through the whole thing. I threw up so much that I actually lost about 40 lbs! I went into labor in my 29th week. Then I was in labor for 23hrs and came close to dying, my blood pressure was 50/30 and I still don't know why they didn't just do a c-section and get it over with. He was in the NICU for about 2 months he was on oxygen for quite a while. He had to also have a blood transfusion because he was doing very poorly he was born on November 30th and he was due in late february. I often wonder if alot of this has to do with me being in labor for 23 hrs and also my blood pressure getting so low. He not only has autism but he also has epilepsy. He has both grand-mal seizures and the mild ones. I worry so much because I have fibro, diabetes, diabetic neuropathy, degenerative disc disease, Arthritis in my knees. my back well all over my body and my mom died young from breast cancer, my grandpa died from a brain tumor and on my hubby's side his mom died fairly young from stomach canver and his dad died from heart disease, I just pray that we live a long life so we can assist him in his daily life. My brother and sister in law are supposed to take care of him is something happens to us well they are as unhealthy as we are. Well both of them are on disability and with me and my hubby I am the only one on disability. But after having him I have learned many things that I really don't hink I would have learned had I not had a special needs child. He is about one of the best things that have happened to me. Pamela

[This Message was Edited on 12/17/2008]

What does Autism Spectrum mean?

Well now. That is one very good question !

It confuses many people.

The term "spectrum disorder" in psychiatry and nerurology "is used to indicate the fact that although there is a common denominator, a given type of individual may present with a given pattern of symptoms, reminiscent of the spectrum of distinct colors after refraction of light by a prism."

Huh?

Well it means everybody has some similar traits and challenges but not everyone experiences the disorder in the same way.

Same holds true for the autism spectrum. There are severe cases ( learning and language as well as social problems) and there are very mild , hardly noticeable cases. ( Social impairment, concentration issues or repetitive behaviors only)

By the way, did you know that Aspergers is considered on the autistic spectrum but technically not autism?

I know. Confusing. It makes my brain hurt.

But for all PRACTICAL purposes, yes the autism spectrum refers to disorders that are AUTISTIC in nature, so therefore the terms are often used interchangeably.

Also, epilepsy and autism often occur together as do other brain dysfunctions and autism.

I do wish the very best for you and your son.

Cate

Thanks alot I thought I was just stupid or something! Haha Pamela