It would seem absurd to diagnose a heart problem based on external symptoms without measuring heart function through an EKG or echocardiogram.
So why is it that brain scans are not part of routine diagnosis of Autism? Instead, autism is typically diagnosed on the symptoms of delayed communication skills and rigid, stereotyped behaviors.
Research shows that a variety of neurological issues can cause autistic symptoms.
Here is a Ted talk from Aditi Shankardass, in which she reports that “50% of people with autism are actually suffering from brain seizures.” In these cases, autistic symptoms can be reduced or eliminated with anti-epileptic medications or neurofeedback. (Neurofeedback had its beginnings in treatment for seizures.)
This approach is in alignment with Functional Medicine, which seeks to find the core issue underneath the symptoms and support the body in handling it naturally.