Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Sandra Steward, H.H.P.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of several Pervasive Development Disorders (PDDs), presenting neurological, gastrointestinal, endocrinological, immunological, developmental and/or communication problems.
Symptoms of ASD include but are not limited to: GERD, chronic strep infections, chronic inflammation, allergies, asthma, self-stimulation (stimming), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), hyperactivity, hypoactivity, tics, hypersensitivity, hyposensitivity, fussy eating habits, eczema, bedwetting, nonverbal/verbal communication deficiencies, lack of social skills development, impaired immune function, anxiety, depression, tantrums, attention deficit, and lack of emotional response.
In 2007, the CDC acknowledged higher rates of ASD following a government survey of data from 2000 and 2002. That same year, CBS News reported research findings presented by scientists from the University of Western Canada that substantiated the long suspected “gut-brain” connection in autism. Their research was inspired by parents of autistic children who reported significant behavioral changes when dietary modifications were made.
Furthermore for the past ten years, scientists and bio-medical physicians have suspected that extensive antibiotic use; disrupting the intestinal micro-flora may be a root cause or trigger of some symptoms of autism. In particular, they suspect that destruction of protective micro-flora by antibiotics, promotes pathogenic growth throughout the gut; leading to production of some very potent neurotoxins. Once carried to the brain, these neurotoxins disrupt the release of neurotransmitters, leading to behavioral issues. To further complicate matters, digestive problems such as chronic diarrhea related to gut dysbiosis and food allergies, cause nutrient deficiencies; advancing to impaired immune function and many other problems.
The specific cause and cure for ASD are currently unknown. However, it is increasingly clear that the combined effects of intracellular damage caused by inheritance of Transgenerational Homotoxins and daily environmental toxic assaults, trigger symptoms of autism.
In the absence of the specific root cause of ASD, practitioners are often challenged with patient/client treatment strategy development, administration and follow-up. However, making the following determinations during the initial patient/client assessment will always prove to be beneficial. All patients/ clients should be evaluated to determine their ability to:
- take in proper nourishment
- digest food and assimilate nutrients
- metabolize efficiently
- excrete metabolic wastes
It is imperative that all practitioners have reliable testing instruments and techniques for efficient patient/client assessment and monitoring.
The following therapies are suggested to provide sufficient gut and brain support for ASD clients/patients.
The practitioner would suggest appropriate natural support for neurotransmitters, anxiety, insomnia, neurotoxicity, gastrointestinal health, brain and oxygen uptake support, immune system. Acupuncture/acupressure plays a big role in balancing and calming down nervous system and at the same time helps concentration and expedites recovery.
Our Office Hours
Tues-Fri: 10:30 – 6:30 pm
Saturday: 9:00 – 3:00 pm
Sun-Mon: Closed
Acupuncture & Natural Medicine Clinic
11140 Rockville Pike #530
Rockville, MD, 20852
Phone: +1 301-881-2898
doctorhelena@gmail.com
Conveniently located in Rockville/North Bethesda Maryland, and close to Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Columbia, and Gaithersburg, MD, Washington D.C., McLean, Alexandria, Great Falls, Vienna, Virginia and Northern Virginia and more.