Autism?

[myo1964]

I am 43 years old and all my life I have had what seems to me to be something like autism. At this point in my life I have sensory issues, I am obsessive about lots of things,  I find myself doing things for comfort like rocking or holding a stuffed animal.  I have had neurophycological testing done that showed I have problems with language,  attention, and switching cognitive set which I dont know what that means. Anyways I can operate a computer but not drive a car.  I can balance a checkbook but not know what bills to give the cashier at the store.  I have muscle jerking that is triggered by sensory things or stress. And I am obsessive about how I do things.  When I was a child I had no family doctor and my problems were just treated like behavior issues,  but I am wondering if as an adult should I mention these things to my doctor or is it something that doesnt matter too much if I have lived with these things this long.  I have heard that a genetic test is available.  Is this correct ? Would doctors really be concerned about possible autism in a person my age?

[Myrna Libby, Ph.D., BCBA]

I recommend you speak to your physician and get evaluated by a specialist who can explain your symptoms and direct you to some useful therapies.  Your quality of life sounds as if it is impaired and there may be very effective and helpful information available to you that you have not yet accessed.  Please follow-up and best wishes to you.

[MaryannesMom]

Certainly drs. would be concerned, no matter what your age.  It must affect your quality of life if you cannot drive, do not know what bills to hand the cashier, & have muscle jerking.  Wouldn't it be great if a dr. was able to help you with these issues?  If I were you I'd keep going to drs. until I found the help I needed.  Don't give up!  Life is about learning & growing, & when you are able to overcome your hardships, think how you could help others in the same situation because you "have been there".  Good luck to you.