Expert: Catherine Ridenour - 12/15/2008

Question
Hi There-  I'm very new at pursuing this subject, but I feel that I need to delve into it further.  I'm a mom of 2 great kids, the youngest, my son, being 6.  I've been trying to get some help from his pediatrician and teachers (both K and 1st), but they seem to dismiss me quickly.

When Jared, my son, was born, I was given a heavy duty dose of pain killers in my I.V.  The nurses assumed I wouldn't be delivering for another few hours, but he was born within 30 minutes of the medications being administered.  He immediately had problems responding, was lethargic, did not cry and would not eat.  He was put into NICU for 2 days before I overheard a nurse mention the connection between the medication I was given and his issues.  I mentioned to the NICU Dr. about the problem, he gave Jared a booster and immediately - he "snapped out of it".  He did suffer from jaundice and was blood tested and put in a "light blanket" for over a week.

When he did finally come home, he cried a lot, didn't eat well (and still doesn't), had a "far off" look and didn't like to be held much.  He is now 6 and is in 1st grade.  He has had major problems with speech and is in a class for that.  He is also showing signs of dyslexia (which his father does have), which his teacher also denies.

I know there is something that isn't quite right about him.  He is overly sensitive (all 5 senses).  Any strange texture/taste or smell will cause him to gag uncontrollably.  He gets super angry if there is a sensory overload (too much noise or stimulation) that he can't handle or is tired.  He is very emotional and has problems with people correcting him.  We try not to lose our patience with him because we constantly hear "I forgot" or he rushes to avoid things (homework, eating, cleaning, etc.).

Am I being paranoid?  His dr. and both teachers tell me that he is a normal boy for his age.  The speech and hyper behaviors are not anything to worry about.  Or that he is just a picky eater.  HELP, please.  I want to find out if this is something I should pursue further without the help of these "authorities".  I'm feeling a little like I can't help him and that I'm just being an over reactive mom.

Thanks for all your time, energy and resources.  -Jessica

Answer
Hi Jessica,

While any baby who gets off to a rough start can have some problems, as an infant, they should be gone well before this age.

You have mentioned enough symptoms of autistic spectrum disorder that you should seek an expert evaluation. Waiting is not in his best interest.

Let me know how it goes.

Best wishes,
Catherine