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Health library/Autism Spectrum Disorder

Development and learning

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Also known as: ASD, Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD)

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with differences in communication, interaction and patterns of behavior. Support needs and strengths vary widely between individuals.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Communication differences
  • Repetitive behaviors or focused interests
  • Sensory sensitivities
  • Difficulty with unexpected changes

Understanding care

Clinical care may include individualized developmental assessment and communication, educational or practical support. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Discuss developmental concerns with a qualified clinician and appropriate support team. Loss of established skills needs prompt review; acute breathing problems, unconsciousness or seizures needs urgent care.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Autism Spectrum Disorder — First AID health library