the Impact of Oxygen Deprivation at Birth on Autism Traits

The child experienced oxygen deprivation for half a day due to the loss of amniotic fluid at birth?

Hello! I have a younger brother who is 20 years old.
He was born after my mother’s amniotic fluid had completely drained, and he was left in the womb from noon until around 5 or 6 in the evening before being delivered.
According to my mother, she consumed fava beans during her pregnancy.
My brother has long exhibited characteristics similar to those of severe quiet-type autism, and we have long believed it to be a psychological issue.
Recently, we have started to consider that his brain may have been damaged due to oxygen deprivation.
He has recently become increasingly non-verbal and it is difficult to engage him.
He is very thin; although he doesn’t eat very little, he remains emaciated, and there are deep reddish circles under his eyes (which I can’t quite describe, but they resemble the bags seen in seriously ill patients).

Could my brother's brain have been damaged due to oxygen deprivation or fava beans? Should we take him to a neurologist for an examination, or to a psychiatrist? We truly hope to gain a better understanding of his health in order to provide him with appropriate treatment, and we look forward to any advice and guidance from a physician.
Thank you very much!

Xuejing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/09/10

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding your question, I recommend that you first consult a neurologist to assess for any potential neurological damage.
Of course, necessary psychological counseling can still be beneficial.
Thank you for your inquiry, and we care about your well-being at Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2011/09/10

More Info

Understanding the impact of oxygen deprivation at birth on autism traits is a complex issue that intertwines various medical, psychological, and developmental factors. Your concerns about your brother's health and development are valid, especially considering the circumstances surrounding his birth.
Oxygen deprivation, or hypoxia, during birth can lead to a range of neurological issues, including cerebral palsy and other developmental disorders. Research indicates that hypoxia can affect brain development, potentially leading to cognitive and behavioral challenges later in life. The brain is particularly vulnerable during the perinatal period, and any significant interruption in oxygen supply can result in lasting effects.
In your brother's case, the prolonged period of oxygen deprivation during birth could have contributed to his current condition. While it is essential to recognize that not all children who experience hypoxia will develop autism or autism-like traits, there is a body of research suggesting a correlation between perinatal complications and the development of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
The symptoms you describe—such as extreme quietness, difficulty in communication, and physical signs like being underweight and having dark circles under the eyes—could be indicative of various underlying issues. These may include neurological damage from oxygen deprivation or other developmental disorders. The mention of your mother consuming fava beans during pregnancy is also noteworthy, as fava beans can trigger hemolytic anemia in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, which can lead to complications during pregnancy.
Given these complexities, it is advisable to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional. A neurologist would be well-suited to assess any potential neurological damage due to hypoxia. They can conduct imaging studies, such as an MRI, to evaluate brain structure and function. Additionally, a developmental pediatrician or psychologist specializing in autism can provide insights into behavioral aspects and help determine if your brother's traits align with autism spectrum disorder.

It is also important to consider a multidisciplinary approach to your brother's care. This could include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support, which can be beneficial in addressing communication difficulties and enhancing overall functioning. Early intervention is crucial, as it can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with developmental delays or disorders.

In summary, while there is a possibility that your brother's condition may be linked to the oxygen deprivation he experienced at birth, a thorough evaluation by medical professionals is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate intervention. Your concern and proactive approach to understanding his health are commendable, and seeking help from specialists will be a critical step in supporting him.

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