Ear, Nose and Throat Problems May be Tied to Autism

Ear, nose, and throat conditions have been a concern for many. A recent study suggests a possible link between these problems and autism.

A group of researchers from the University of Bristol and Aston University in England have learned that children with ear, nose, and throat problems have higher chances of being diagnosed with autism.

The researchers conducted the study to understand a factor behind autism. They have found that children with more repeated symptoms of ear infections were more likely to have this disorder than those without the symptoms.

The study results have added to several potential reasons for the disorder’s development. Some of these are the mothers’ immune problems during pregnancy and genetics.

Ear, nose and throat (ENT) problems are more common in young children with a subsequent diagnosis of autism.

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Symptoms of Ear, Nose, and Throat Problems Associated with Autism

The researchers studied data from more than 10,000 children in the UK. One hundred seventy-seven of them have a potential diagnosis of the disorder.

About 1 out of 36 children in the US have autism spectrum disorder, and symptoms vary from mild to intense.

They also discovered that children with mucus or pus in their ears had a triple risk for the condition. In addition, those who have weak hearing when they have colds have more than twice the risk.

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Moreover, the study also found that the greater the frequency of symptoms related to ear, nose, and throat conditions, the greater the scores on autism traits. These traits include incoherent speech, social communication, and repetitive behaviors.

On a positive note, the study does not suggest that all children with ear infections will soon develop the disorder. It also doesn’t imply that all people with autism had upper respiratory problems when they were younger.

But these possibilities could all be a part of the long list of various reasons that could result in autism. The study author, Dr. Amanda Hall, said children with autism should have a regular ear, nose, and throat check-up.

👧 Did you know that common ear, nose, and throat problems in preschoolers may be linked to a higher risk of autism? A new study sheds light on the potential early signs of autism. https://t.co/vr508TMxhX

— Medical Daily (@medicaldaily) April 26, 2023

Although the study did not further study why children with these conditions may have higher chances of developing autism, one probable explanation could be the differences in the positioning and structure of the ears.

People with autism are known to have different ears at a specific group level. These unusual ear structures could result to having upper respiratory infections.

The findings of this recent study can help healthcare experts and providers better understand and address the needs of people with autism.

Since the study gives new insights into the underlying causes of autism, it also opens the possibility of developing new treatments and interventions