Screaming is often perceived as a behavioral issue.
Many times children with autism are labeled with severe behavioral problems. When observed without the knowledge of the associated neurological challenges and deficiencies, behaviors such as screaming, crashing into things, hyperactivity, withdrawing, inappropriate laughing, and invading others' space appear to be indicative of a lack of discipline and outright defiance. This is not the case at all. Because of neurological deficiencies, these children face challenges daily that inhibit their ability to make sense of the world around them.
Sensory Processing Issues
Many children with autism are deficient at processing sensory input. Normal sensory integration is taking information from your surroundings through your senses and sensory systems including sight, smell, sound, touch, and spatial awareness (where your body ends and space begins). The information is processed in the brain and then interpreted, organized, and sent back to the body with instructions for an appropriate response.
Having a sensory processing deficiency means the input is collected, but when the data enters the brain it is not processed correctly and, therefore, the brain sends out inappropriate and abnormal responses.
Hyperresponsive is when the brain essentially short-circuits from magnified or intense sensations. Even the lightest touch to a child can trigger a "fight or flight" response: The nervous system is perpetually on high alert and perceives nearly every movement or sensation as danger. Because of this, the child may avoid certain foods, clothing, movements, or perform repeated movements in an attempt to calm the body.
Conversely, hyporesponsive is when the brain simply doesn't register and respond to input received. A child may fall or bang his head and not indicate any sensation of pain. In an effort to make sense of his world, he may employ all other senses to compensate.
Occupational therapy is recommended, regular use of products such as compression or weighted vests, body stockings, and spinning swings for sensory support.
Digestive Enzyme Deficiencies
Children with autism tend to have problems with digestion due to an enzyme deficiency, which can often form leakiness of the intestinal lining, more commonly known as leaky gut.
This deficiency allows partly digested food substances called peptides to enter straight into the bloodstream. The most common culprits that trigger these reactions are gluten and casein.
Gluten and gluten-like proteins are found in wheat and other grains, as well as foods made from those grains. They are also found in food starches, semolina, malt, soy sauce, flavorings, and artificial colors.
Casein is a protein found in milk and foods containing milk such as cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream.
When gluten and casein are not properly digested, the peptides formed act like opiates, causing brain functioning to short-circuit and alter the autistic child's behavior, perceptions, and responses to her environment. Behavioral problems from a digestive deficiency can include social withdrawal, inappropriate laughing, and zoning out.
There are many viable and delicious substitutes available such as gluten-free pastas, cereals, cookies, and even breads. Coconut milk-based ice creams and yogurts are becoming more popular, as well as almond milk.
Functional Disconnect Between Brain Hemispheres
Based on the studies of Dr. Robert Melillo, autism and other learning disabilities are caused by varying degrees of a hemispheric imbalance in the brain.
In order for the brain to function normally, the activities in both the right and left hemispheres must work in harmony. When the brain can no longer effectively share and integrate information, it becomes disconnected.
The deficient hemisphere and the percentage of the gap between the two dictate the different symptoms and behaviors that have previously been identified as separate diagnoses.
Right-brain deficient persons are logical, linear, and literal in their perception of things; they miss the big picture along with social cues and implications. They can repeat and memorize but not comprehend the data they are reciting. Physically, it is common for them to have food sensitivities, allergies, and digestion issues. Their gait is awkward and muscles are not fully developed, which will directly affect coordination. These traits are typical of those with autism and ADHD.
Left-brain deficient persons are more creative, athletic, and have trouble with detail. Their fine motor skills come with difficulty and they can stumble over words when fatigued or frustrated. They are strong at math reasoning and reading comprehension. These traits are typical of those with dyslexia.
Both types have extreme difficulty processing and integrating sensory input, which can manifest in many different forms, including over- or under-sensitivity to light, sounds, or touch, as well as picky eating.
Dr. Melillo's research indicates that the brain is not hardwired and the functional disconnect can be corrected through a strict therapy and nutrition program.
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