Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Grapevine, TX

Autism is not a single diagnosis but is rather a spectrum of issues that span a vast array of behaviors and symptoms. Our team at Kotsanis Institute of Functional Medicine has been treating autistic children since 1992 in Grapevine, TX. In 1995, Dr. Kotsanis’ interest in autism spectrum disorder advocacy prompted him to become one of the founding members of Defeat Autism Now! (DAN!). In fact, DAN! protocol evolved out of a study that Dr. Kotsanis did in 1992. Autism spectrum disorders are often accompanied by digestive, immune, hormonal, neurological, and other co-morbidities. There is no single biological marker that definitively distinguishes any of these conditions as a distinct diagnosis. These diagnostic categories have traditionally been defined by behaviors and diagnosed through a process that identifies these behaviors and their degree of severity. Autism has increased in epidemic proportions in the past twenty years. With increasing pollution and the degradation of dietary habits internationally, we have seen an increase in the incidence of all developmental disorders.

There are often overlapping definitions for similar developmental conditions like autism. Very often, even practitioners are uncertain about which classification to use. Over the past twenty years, many sub-classifications for autistic-like behaviors have emerged because children did not fit neatly into a single autism category. In the realm of clinical practice at Kotsanis Institute, we do not consider labels critical unless they add a dimension of usefulness to the actual act of helping our patients. It doesn’t matter what label you use if you don't treat the underlying metabolic problems, and behaviors are very unlikely to improve to an optimal level. We'd like to be part of your medical team. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our skilled physicians.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals in unique ways, often leading to varying degrees of social, communication, and behavioral challenges. Symptoms often become noticeable early in life, as children may experience developmental delays or exhibit behaviors that stand out from typical developmental patterns. While symptoms may differ from person to person, there are several common signs that can help identify the presence of autism, such as:

• Developmental delays
• Difficulty with social interactions
• Lack of eye contact, smiling, or emotional displays
• Difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication
• Repetitive behaviors or movements
• Hyperactivity
• Improper emotional responses or lack of emotion/empathy
• Unusual, remarkable abilities or talents

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is thought to result from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Genetic influences include inherited traits, spontaneous mutations, and links to certain syndromes like Fragile X or Rett syndrome. Neurological differences, such as atypical brain structure, connectivity, and neurotransmitter imbalances, also play a role. Environmental factors, including advanced parental age, prenatal exposure to certain drugs or toxins, maternal infections, or birth complications, may contribute. While the exact causes are complex and multifactorial, extensive research has debunked myths, such as vaccines causing autism.

Autism is a developmental disorder of brain dysfunction with patients exhibiting a characteristic set of behaviors, including impaired reciprocal social interaction, impaired verbal and nonverbal communication, a marked restriction of activities and interests, and abnormal response to sensory stimuli. Some factors that have been connected to autism (not necessarily causes of autism) include:

• Antibiotic overuse
• Chemical toxin or heavy metal toxicity exposure
• Contaminated immunizations (vaccination of immuno-incompetent individuals)
• Digestive, endocrine, or immune system dysfunction
• Endocrine system dysfunction
• Food allergies or sensitivities
• Genetics
• Improper or inadequate brain circulation (hypoperfusion of frontal lobe)
• Inadequate brain development or brain injury
• Metabolic dysfunction affecting lipids, amino acids, and carbohydrates
• Nutritional deficiencies secondary to poor nutrition and malabsorption
• Parasites
• Pathogenic bacteria, fungus, or virus
• Sensory anomalies (hypersensitivity of hearing, smell, taste, or sensation accompanied by visual distortions)
• Structural and autonomic dysfunction

Since our earliest studies, we have added much to our body of knowledge of autism and autism spectrum disorders. In order to properly assess each patient, we require a number of tests. Of course, the customized treatment plan can only be designed after we have a complete medical history, in-depth conversations with the patient and caregivers, a physical examination, and metabolic testing.

Because no two patients are alike, it is important to use objective testing that measures the various metabolic variables essential for treatment. We strive to create a personalized program based on the results of testing. The first three weeks of the program are designed to ease our patients into the changes. The foundations of our treatment are regulating digestive function and enhancing nutrition. Then, our team will:

• Assess and strive to correct the competence of the elimination and immune systems
• Provide neuro-endocrine modulation
• Supplement with nutritional interventions
• Detoxify the body, such as heavy metal detoxification with noninvasive chelation techniques
• Perform a comprehensive digestive stool analysis (CDSA)
• Assess and treat allergies

With these interventions, we believe you should see improved behaviors and learning for your loved one with autism. In addition, we highly recommend Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, visual correction via special lenses, and speech therapy. Although we do not offer these latter services at our offices, upon your first visit, we will recommend providers that will help to meet the needs of your child.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, prenatal, and environmental factors. Genetic risks include family history, certain mutations, and conditions like Fragile X syndrome, with boys being more frequently diagnosed than girls. Prenatal influences, such as advanced parental age, maternal health conditions, complications during pregnancy or birth, and exposure to certain medications or toxins, can increase the likelihood of ASD. Environmental factors, like exposure to air pollution, heavy metals, or infections during pregnancy, and epigenetic changes that affect gene expression, may also contribute. While these factors raise the risk of ASD, they do not determine its development, as the condition varies widely and involves many unknowns.

How common is autism?

According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control) research, as many as 1 in 44 children, or about 2%, have been diagnosed with ASD or autism spectrum disorder.

What is Asperger’s Syndrome?

The second most common type of ASD or autism, Asperger’s Syndrome is usually milder, with children typically having normal intellectual capacities and a higher degree of language development. They often have a lessened degree of interest in social interactions and therefore limit interactions with other people.

Can someone with autism live a nomal life?

It is absolutely possible for people with autism to live a completely normal life. Autism is a spectrum and many people diagnosed with it are able to live totally independent lives.

Is autism considered a disability?

Yes. Autism is a developmental disability stemming from differences in the brain. It can affect how people communicate and interact with others in social situations, as well as cause restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. Learning ability and movement can also be affect by autism.

Does autism change with age?

Not necessarily. However, as people age, they often experience more stress and anxiety than when they were younger. Stress and anxiety are two considerable contributors to symptoms of autism, which can make the condition seem worse from time to time.

At what age can autism be diagnosed?

Autism can typically be diagnosed as early as 18 months to 2 years of age, although some children may not receive a diagnosis until later in childhood. Early signs of autism can include delayed speech, lack of eye contact, or limited social interaction. Our team specializes in early diagnosis and intervention, which is crucial for helping children with autism reach their full potential through early therapies and support.

Autism is better understood now than it was many years ago when it was thought to be the result of a cold mother-child relationship. It is now thought that there are many components to this problem: digestive, genetic, metabolic, environmental, biochemical, and sensory. Our hope is that in some cases, with early and aggressive intervention, there can be an improvement in the condition. Explore more about autism and autism spectrum disorders at Kotsanis Institute of Functional Medicine in Grapevine, TX today.