Nurturing Neurodiversity : Autism Spectrum Disorder And Homoeopathy

Abstract  

The neurological illness known as autism spectrum  disorder (ASD) is typified by repetitive behaviors,  speech difficulties, and poor social interaction.  Immunological, environmental, and genetic variables  are all part of its complex etiology. In the treatment of  ASD, conventional and complementary methods— such as homoeopathy—are essential. The  epidemiology, etiology, clinical characteristics,  diagnostic procedures, and homeopathic treatments  of ASD are all examined in this article.

Keywords  

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Neurodevelopmental Disorder, Social Communication, Repetitive Behaviors, Sensory Processing, Developmental Delays, Behavioral Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Early Intervention, Genetic Predisposition, Hypersensitivity, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Isotherapy, Cognitive Impairments, Adaptive Functioning 

Epidemiology 

About 1% of the world’s population has Autism  Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with a male to female ratio  of approximately 4:1. The rising diagnosis rates are  said to stem from increased awareness, improved diagnostic tools and the expanded diagnostic criteria.  The prevalence is higher across developed countries probably owing to improved detection facilities. This  rise in diagnosis can be explained by greater 

awareness and better diagnostic tools. The rise is due  to many factors including urbanization, genetic  disposition, and environmental factors. 

Introduction 

ASD is a range of ailments that influence social  interaction and communication. Leo Kanner first used  the term “autism” to describe a group of individuals in  the 1940s. The range includes Asperger’s syndrome  and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise  specified (PDD-NOS). While many individuals with  ASD have cognitive and functional impairments, they  also differ widely in skills and abilities, leading to the  need for plans that are tailored to an individual’s  health care needs. (by Tinus Smits: Autism Beyond  Despair is one of the best books on treating the  Autism spectrum disorder from a holistic point of  view).

Etiology and Risk Elements 

The etiology of ASD is complicated and includes:  

1. Genetic Factors: There is a substantial correlation  between mutations in genes such as SHANK3,  MECP2, and CHD8.  
2. Environmental Triggers: Exposure to heavy metals,  poisons, or diseases (like rubella) during pregnancy  may raise the risk.  
3. Immune Dysregulation: ASD is frequently linked to  inflammatory indicators and autoimmune reactions.  
4. Gut-Brain Axis: Behavioral problems are a result of  intestinal dysfunction, which includes changes in  microbiota.  
5. Maternal infections, low birth weight, and advanced  maternal age are prenatal and perinatal factors. 

Clinical Features and Symptoms 

1. Social Communication Deficits: 

                         ▪ Lack of eye contact. 

                         ▪ Difficulty in understanding social cues.

                         ▪ Preference for solitude. 

▪ Difficulty understanding emotions and  maintaining relationships. 

2. Repetitive Behaviors: 

▪ Hand flapping, rocking, or spinning objects. 

▪ Fixations on specific topics or routines. 

3. Cognitive and Sensory Issues: 

▪ Hypo- or hypersensitivity to stimuli like light,  sound, or textures.  

▪ Variable intellectual abilities. 

▪ Delayed speech, echolalia, or total nonverbal  behavior. 

4. Associated Conditions: 

▪ Epilepsy, ADHD, and gastrointestinal  problems. 

▪ Sleep disturbances, and sensory sensitivities.

 

Diagnosis 

ASD is diagnosed using DSM-5 criteria, which require  deficits in social communication and restricted  behaviors. 

Diagnostic methods include: 

➢Screening Tools: M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for  Autism in Toddlers). 

➢Standardized Assessments: Autism Diagnostic  Observation Schedule (ADOS). 

➢Investigations: To rule out metabolic and genetic  conditions.

 Homoeopathic Approach and Therapeutics 

Homoeopathy treats ASD holistically by addressing  underlying constitutional imbalances and chronic  miasms. Key concepts include individualized  remedies, miasmatic influences, and restoring the  vital force.

Key Homoeopathic Remedies :- 

 

1. Carcinosin: 

• For children with perfectionism, hypersensitivity,  and rhythmic behaviors. 
• Miasmatic Background: Sycosis. 

2. Tarentula Hispanica: 

• For hyperactivity and impulsiveness. 
• Indicated for children drawn to rhythmic music or  repetitive movements.

3. Baryta Carbonica: 

• Useful in children with delayed milestones and  shyness. 

4. Natrum Muriaticum: 

• For children with marked introversion and  sensitivity to criticism.

5. Silicea: 

• For cases with developmental delays and weak  immunity. 

  Therapeutic Principles 

❖ Constitutional Treatment: Remedies are selected  based on mental, emotional, and physical  symptoms. 

❖ Miasmatic Considerations: Chronic miasms  (syphilitic, sycotic, and psoric) often underlie ASD. 

❖ Isotherapy: Addressing vaccine injuries, where  applicable, using potentized vaccines.

 Management of ASD 

A multidisciplinary approach, combining medical,  behavioral, and homoeopathic interventions, is  crucial: 

1. Behavioral Interventions: Applied  Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and speech  therapy. 
2. Nutritional Support: Diet modifications like  gluten-free and casein-free diets. 
3. Homoeopathic Remedies: Addressing root  causes while reducing sensory overload  and enhancing social engagement. 
4. Family Education: Empowering caregivers  with strategies for daily management.

Conclusion and Summary  

Since ASD is a complex disorder, management must  be all-encompassing. With its personalized and all encompassing approach, homeopathy offers a  complementary treatment option that can enhance  the quality of life for autistic people and their families.  More investigation into the integration of homoeopathy  with traditional therapies may result in better  approaches to the management of ASD. This article  offers a thorough explanation of autism spectrum  disorder and how it is managed by combining current,  evidence-based medicine with homeopathic  remedies. A patient-centered approach to treatment is  provided by homoeopathy, which addresses the  biological, psychological, and environmental aspects  of ASD. 

List of References :- 

 1) Autism beyond despair by Tinus Smits, M.D

2) Harrison’s principles of internal medicine, 20th edition  

3) APT textbook of medicine by Sandhya Kamath, 8th edition  

4) Textbook of medicine for MBBS by Dr. S.N.Chugh, 4th edition  

5) Psychiatry and Homoeopathy by Fernado Risquez,  1st edition  

6) Textbook of medicine with Homoeopathic  therapeutics 

7) Lotus Materia Medica by Robin Murphy, 2nd revised  edition  

8) Medicine Prep Manual for undergraduates, 5th edition  

9) Golwalla’s medicine for students  

10) Materia Medica of Homoeopathic medicines by Dr.  S.R.Phatak  

11) Lectures on Homoeopathic Materia Medica by  J.T.Kent 

12) A synoptic key of the Materia Medica by C.M.Boger.

 

Author

Chauhan Mahek  

Student of 2nd BHMS  

Rajkot Homoeopathic Medical College  Parul University  

Rajkot, Gujarat