English (United Kingdom) 
Русский (Россия) Sarah, a 12-year-old girl with severe autism, was admitted to a psychiatric unit with extreme behavioral issues. However, after a stay at Children’s Hospital Colorado, it was discovered that her behavior was due to a severe jaw infection and hearing loss. Treatment of these underlying medical issues led to a dramatic improvement in Sarah's behavior. This case highlights the importance of investigating possible medical causes behind behavioral changes in individuals with autism, as these issues may be overlooked or misinterpreted.
People with autism may also suffer from mental health problems, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, mood disorders, or depression. These conditions can further contribute to challenging behaviors. Experts advise parents and healthcare providers to be alert to any changes in behavior and to consider underlying medical or psychiatric causes.
In some cases, a change in behavior can be the only clue that something is wrong, as experienced by the mother of Jadyne, an 18-year-old with severe autism. An unexpected increase in her aggressive behavior was later found to be caused by a urinary tract infection. This highlights the importance of considering all possible factors when addressing behavioral changes in individuals with autism, as proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve their quality of life.
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