Vision Therapy and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Kids with Autism
Filed under: Optometry
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 68 children are diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Boys have a higher risk than girls, and researchers are still working to identify the causes and risk factors for this disease.
Since the prevalence of autism is increasing, many medical professionals are working hard to identify treatments to reduce the symptoms. One powerful combination of natural remedies has been discovered: vision therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Vision Therapy for Autism
Often, people who have been diagnosed with autism have visual problems that contribute to the symptoms they experience. These visual problems might include staring at lights or spinning objects, lack of eye contact, difficulty with visual attention, and side viewing.
It has been found that people with autism often are inefficient with the way the brain processes visual information. It is difficult for them to coordinate their peripheral and central vision. Vision therapy can be an effective way to train the eyes and brain to work together, helping the individual to overcome the vision difficulties they face each day. As a result, they can develop the skills needed for visual information processing and improving their eye coordination.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Autism
Simultaneously, it can be beneficial to include hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a supportive treatment for someone with autism. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a one-hour session in a hyperbaric chamber, and the child receives increased levels of oxygen.
It has been found HBOT can help with decreasing inflammation and improving cognitive functions at the same time. People suffering from autism can benefit because of the boost in cognitive/sensory awareness, increased alertness and attention span, and reduced brain inflammation.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Child
If your child has been diagnosed with autism, how do you choose the best treatment plan? It is essential that you work with an experienced team of medical professionals. For information about using vision therapy for autism, call Dr. Gio Venitelli and Dr. Katie Dugan of Temecula and Murrieta Creek Optometry. We offer two convenient locations that you can visit: Murrieta at (951) 600-9226 or Temecula at (951) 302-1331
For information about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for autism, contact Cindy Kelly at Alive and Well.
