Can my 2 year olds ear problems cause Autism like symtoms?

Question

My 2 year old isn't talking a whole lot the doctors think it may be coming from fluid in his ears. He goes next month to get an EEG and they are going to see how his brain reacts to different sounds. I was reading online about the signs of Autism and he shows some of them signs but not all the signs. I was wondering if anyone has ever know of anyone or read anywhere that the lack of hearing or not hearing well can cause autistic like signs in a child? I have already asked the doctor he told me take it one step at a time. But as a parent of course I worry so does anyone have any info?? Thanks

Answer 1

wow..I'm going through the exact same thing with my 2 year old son right now. he has always had a lot of ear infections, and the doctor said that he still has fluid in his ears(the question is how long has it been there). i started speech therapy for him, but its new and they will see him again for more detailed evaluation in a couple weeks. he is starting to show a few autistic signs, and like you, I'm worried. i actually posted the same question your asking 2 days ago, but i deleted it...too much negative energy from people i don't even know. all i can say..is i know exactly how you feel, but i find it easier to just accept it, embrace it, and hope for the best.  its easy to forget about how funny and smart our kids are if all we pay attention to are the "autistic things" they do. it could just be nothing. like someone said on my page... they had an autistic son and he is 15, in the honor roll, doing great at school, etc.  i wish you all the best, and feel free to e-mail me. :)  [e-mail]

Answer 2

I do not really know, it would be easier to answer this question if I knew what behaviors your child is exhibiting that you are concerned about.  If it is just talking then I would think his hearing would play a huge part in him not talking a lot or very well.  If you could let me know what signs you are concerned about, I could give you a better answer, maybe.