I have noticed a trend over the last few years, as spring sets in — many parents calling my office with concerns that they are seeing increased negative behaviors in their ASD child. These behaviors include hyperactivity, irritability, lack of focus and eye contact, emotional lability, tantrums, aggression, and even self-injury. This happens nationwide — from Southern California to Idaho, the midwest, and down south in Florida and the Gulf Coast. All over the country, the pattern has been the same.
How Seasonal Allergies Affect the Nervous System
When spring arrives, so do pollens, and other airborne allergens. We can all be susceptible to these seasonal allergens with sneezing, itchy eyes, and sore throats. These allergies lead to histamine release, and the corresponding inflammation causes the aforementioned symptoms. One issue with seasonal allergies in children on the autism-spectrum is the onset of inflammation in the body that can trigger unwanted chemical changes neurologically. Also, with an increase in inflammation from allergies digestive yeast and bacteria can become exacerbated leading to adverse behaviors as well.
The Role of Yeast and Bacteria
Yeast (aka. Candida) is commonly a trigger for inappropriate laughter (goofiness, giddiness and silliness), loss of eye contact, inattentiveness, and increase stemming behavior. Bacteria – commonly clostridia species – which is commonly found in the digestive tracts of autistic individuals can trigger aggression, irritability, and self-injurious behavior. In some circumstances both bacteria and candida can become problematic making matters worse.
What You Can Do
If you are seeing a pattern with your child as described above one thing you can implement is an over-the-counter allergy medication such as Claritin or Zyrtec. Be sure to check with your primary care physician about any interaction with other medication your child may be taking.
The OAT Test from Mosaic Lab (available for order through LabTestsPlus.com if your physician can’t order it for you) evaluates for yeast and clostridia bacteria toxins. If present, these can be treated with various antifungal or antibiotic remedies.
The Bigger Picture
Sometimes simple changes in weather patterns and/or seasons can bring about chemical changes in susceptible children on the autism-spectrum with negative behaviors as a consequence. With this understanding and the use of biomedical intervention for autism much can be implemented to help remedy the situation and improve the quality of health for your child, both physically, mentally, and emotionally.