• Published on: Aug 14, 2021
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Pediatrician

What Are The Common Signs & Symptoms Of Autism ?

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What are the Common Signs & Symptoms of Autism ?

The common signs and symptoms of autism in children include lack of eye contact, repetitive hand movement, unusual fixations on objects or events like ceiling fans, and a failure to show meaning using tone and body language. Children with autism often develop some ability to understand empathy as they grow up but the earlier you identify it and seek treatment for your child the better chance, they have at making social connections. The most important thing is that early detection is very important to give your child time to learn social skills that will make their life easier when learning about everything else going on around them. When looking for new information on autism look no further than second-medic.com because we give you access to qualified medical advice from a specialist.

The Autism Society outlines a number of signs that parents can use to determine whether or not they should take their child for an autism evaluation. The most common signs are social and communication issues, obsessions with specific objects, repetitive movements, resisting change; difficulty transitioning from one activity to another; difficulties organizing tasks or ideas; unusually intense reactions to sensory information (tactile, auditory); poor motor skills; difficulty with language-whether in speaking, reading comprehension and writing. Improvement is possible when diagnosed early.

If a doctor or therapist has recommended that you get a second opinion on your child's possible autism diagnosis, then it's important to find doctors and therapists in your area who offer this service.

The trouble with diagnosing autism in children is that every child is different, developing at their own pace and in various parts of the brain. The most significant difference between autistic and non-autistic children are social interactions, which include difficulty interacting with other people, strange eye contact, or reacting to emotions displayed by others. Another red flag would be repetitive behaviors. Overall, these signs and symptoms require significant active observation for a diagnosis.

Generally speaking, though the best way to manage kids with autism is by establishing an orderly schedule as far as possible so it will

A pediatrician will carry out a physical examination to look for any suspicious signs. There are currently no medical or blood tests that can formally diagnose autism. Diagnosis is based on reports from parents, usually in the form of a diagnosis by exclusion (i.e., ruling out other causes of the symptoms). The following are considered as red flags: Dramatic change in toilet training at an early age social delay (does not play well) Loss of words or language skills, even though there is nothing wrong with hearing  Tantrums Self-harming behavior/signs of stress Abnormally strong reactions to certain sounds and textures, loud noises such as clinking.

When a child does not show any of these signs and symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean he or she doesn't have autism. Consult with Second Medic opinion online consultation for more information.

The common sign is unusual delays in language development. They may seem ahead at times and will love to repeat words after you say them but then they start having trouble stringing together two-word phrases as they get older. It's also different from dyslexia in that autistic children are usually well-behaved instead of hyperactive so there's no fidgeting or interrupting others when someone else is talking. The classic test for autism is the "AQ" test which measures social awareness and communication skills among other things.

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Metabolic

Metabolic Health Improvement Tips: Practical Strategies for Long-Term Wellness

Metabolic health determines how effectively the body converts food into energy, regulates blood sugar and maintains healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. When metabolic processes function efficiently, individuals experience stable energy, healthy weight and reduced disease risk. However, poor metabolic health has become increasingly common due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diet and chronic stress. Understanding and applying metabolic health improvement tips can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research and National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hypertension are rising rapidly across India, even among younger adults.

 

What Is Metabolic Health?

Metabolic health refers to optimal functioning of:

  • blood sugar regulation

  • cholesterol levels

  • blood pressure

  • waist circumference

  • triglyceride levels

When these parameters remain within healthy ranges without medication, metabolic health is considered stable.

 

Why Metabolic Health Matters

Poor metabolic health increases risk of:

  • type 2 diabetes

  • heart disease

  • stroke

  • fatty liver disease

NITI Aayog reports that lifestyle-related metabolic conditions are a major contributor to India’s healthcare burden.

 

Early Signs of Poor Metabolic Health

Warning signs include:

  • abdominal fat gain

  • constant fatigue

  • sugar cravings

  • elevated fasting blood sugar

  • abnormal cholesterol levels

Early detection allows timely correction.

 

Top Metabolic Health Improvement Tips

1. Maintain a Balanced Diet

Nutrition is the foundation of metabolic health.

Focus on:

  • whole grains

  • vegetables

  • fruits

  • lean protein

  • healthy fats

Reduce:

  • refined sugar

  • processed foods

  • excessive salt

ICMR dietary guidelines emphasise balanced macronutrient intake for metabolic control.

 

2. Prioritise Protein Intake

Adequate protein:

  • stabilises blood sugar

  • reduces hunger

  • supports muscle mass

Muscle tissue improves insulin sensitivity.

 

3. Increase Fibre Consumption

Fibre slows glucose absorption and improves gut health.

Sources include:

  • legumes

  • oats

  • fruits

  • leafy vegetables

High-fibre diets reduce metabolic risk.

 

4. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Exercise improves:

  • insulin sensitivity

  • blood circulation

  • weight control

WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly.

 

5. Strength Training for Better Metabolism

Building muscle mass increases resting metabolic rate.

Strength training:

  • enhances glucose utilisation

  • reduces fat accumulation

Even twice weekly sessions are beneficial.

 

6. Improve Sleep Quality

Poor sleep increases:

  • cortisol levels

  • insulin resistance

  • appetite hormones

Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep daily.

 

7. Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic stress disrupts:

  • blood sugar control

  • fat storage

  • appetite regulation

Stress reduction techniques improve hormonal balance.

 

8. Stay Hydrated

Water supports:

  • digestion

  • nutrient transport

  • metabolic reactions

Even mild dehydration affects metabolic efficiency.

 

9. Avoid Excessive Sugar Intake

High sugar consumption leads to:

  • insulin spikes

  • fat storage

  • metabolic fatigue

Limiting sugary drinks and snacks is critical.

 

10. Monitor Health Parameters Regularly

Preventive health checkups help track:

  • fasting blood glucose

  • HbA1c

  • lipid profile

  • blood pressure

Early intervention prevents complications.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive screening identifies:

  • prediabetes

  • early hypertension

  • cholesterol abnormalities

Lancet research shows early metabolic correction reduces long-term disease risk.

 

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Metabolism in India

Urbanisation has increased:

  • sedentary behaviour

  • processed food consumption

  • irregular eating patterns

Addressing these factors is key to improving metabolic outcomes.

 

Importance of Abdominal Fat Monitoring

Central obesity is strongly linked to metabolic syndrome.

Waist circumference is an important indicator of metabolic risk.

 

Building Sustainable Metabolic Health

Long-term success depends on:

  • consistency

  • gradual improvement

  • realistic goals

Extreme dieting often backfires.

 

Benefits of Improved Metabolic Health

Stable metabolism leads to:

  • sustained energy

  • improved mood

  • better cardiovascular health

  • reduced medication dependence

Preventive lifestyle changes deliver long-term dividends.

 

Conclusion

Applying practical metabolic health improvement tips can transform long-term wellbeing. Balanced nutrition, regular exercise, quality sleep, stress management and routine screening together strengthen metabolic stability. With rising metabolic disorders across India, prioritising metabolic health is no longer optional—it is essential. Small, consistent lifestyle changes today can prevent major health complications tomorrow.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Dietary and Metabolic Health Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Diabetes and Hypertension Data
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Metabolic Syndrome and Lifestyle Risk
  • NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare and Non-Communicable Diseases Reports
  • Lancet – Metabolic Health and Chronic Disease Studies

See all

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