Spectrum Study: Lesser Known Causes Of Autism You Should Know About
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) rank among the most prevalent neurodevelopmental issues in children, often leading to notable developmental challenges. Yet, several underlying causes of autism remain under-explored and are not completely comprehended. A number of these lesser-known autism causes are associated with environmental influences and genetic changes, though there exist additional obscure factors too. Below are some of the less recognized causes of autism that you ought to be aware of.
Thyroid Gland Malfunction
Thyroid dysfunction is one of the lesser-known causes of autism. Thyroid dysfunction is associated with an increased risk of developing ASD. Thyroid dysfunction occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This leads to the body being unable to regulate the amount of thyroid hormones required for optimal functioning.
If you have a family history of thyroid problems, your doctor may test your thyroid levels to see if you have thyroid dysfunction. If you do have a family history of thyroid problems and your thyroid levels are low, you should discuss this with your doctor as well. Thyroid dysfunction can also be caused by over-the-counter painkillers or other medications that contain acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). These medications are known to cause hypothyroidism.
Over-The-Counter Painkillers
Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Tylenol and ibuprofen can have an adverse effect on the functioning of the thyroid gland and lead to an increased risk of developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research has revealed that the acetaminophen contained in these medications can cause hypothyroidism, which is a condition in which the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to regulate body functions. This can lead to developmental delays and changes in behavior, which are common in people with autism.
Furthermore, research has also indicated that pregnant women who take over-the-counter painkillers may be more likely to have a child with autism.
Prenatal Exposure to Mercury
Exposure to mercury in the womb during pregnancy can lead to ASD. Mercury is a heavy metal that is toxic to the brain and nervous system. It is therefore important for pregnant women to avoid mercury exposure and stay on top of their prenatal care. Pregnant women should avoid eating fish that contain mercury, and they should avoid using any products that contain mercury, such as mouthwash, toothpaste, and cosmetics.
If you have a family history of ASD and you have been exposed to mercury in the womb, discuss this with your doctor so that you can be properly screened for ASD. If you have a family history of ASD and you have been exposed to mercury in the womb, avoid eating fish that contain mercury and avoid using any products that contain mercury as well.
Prenatal Exposure to PCBs
Exposure to PCBs in the womb during pregnancy can lead to affect the health and safety of the mother as well as cause ASD in the child. PCBs are chemicals that were used in industrial products such as paint, but were banned from use in the United States in 1979. PCBs can cause ASD when they enter the body through the placenta or through breast milk. If you have a family history of ASD and you have been exposed to PCBs in the womb, discuss this with your doctor so that you can be properly screened for ASD. If you have a family history of ASD and you have been exposed to PCBs in the womb, avoid eating fish that contain PCBs and avoid using any products that contain PCBs as well.
Toxic Metals in Vaccines and Medicines
Exposure to toxic metals like mercury and lead from vaccines and medicines can lead to ASD. The metals can be absorbed through the skin or ingested through food or water. The metals may also be absorbed through the lungs when people inhale them from dust particles or smoke from burning toxic metals.
If you have a family history of ASD and your vaccinations contain toxic metals, discuss this with your doctor so that he or she can screen you for ASD and offer appropriate treatment if needed. If you have a family history of ASD and your vaccinations contain toxic metals, avoid eating fish that contain toxic metals and avoid using any products that contain toxic metals as well.
Food Intolerances
Food intolerances are known to cause ASD symptoms in children with autism because they affect the way the body digests food. Food intolerances occur when the body has an adverse reaction to food or certain food components. Food intolerances can lead to gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, etc. If you have a family history of ASD and you have food intolerances, discuss this with your doctor so that he or she can screen you for ASD and offer appropriate treatment if needed. If you have a family history of ASD and you have food intolerances, avoid eating foods that are known for causing adverse reactions in people with ASD and avoid using any products that contain food components known for causing adverse reactions in people with ASD as well.
Genetically-Inherited Disorders
Genetic disorders are known to cause ASD symptoms in children with autism because they affect the way genes function in the body. Genetic disorders occur when a person inherits an abnormal copy of a gene from one parent or both parents. The abnormal copy of a gene may lead to developmental problems during fetal development or during infancy or childhood. If you have a family history of ASD and you have a genetic disorder, discuss this with your doctor so that he or she can screen you for ASD and offer appropriate treatment if needed. If you have a family history of ASD and you have a genetic disorder, avoid eating foods that are known for causing adverse reactions in people with ASD and avoid using any products that contain food components known for causing adverse reactions in people with ASD as well.
There are many lesser-known causes of autism that researchers continue to study in order to better understand how these diseases develop. There is still much more research that needs to be done before we fully understand what causes autism or if there is an environmental trigger that leads to autism development at birth or during childhood development.
