Final answer:
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently have comorbid conditions, including epilepsy, intellectual disabilities, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. These associated disorders often dictate the need for an integrated approach to treatment that includes behavioral therapy and medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience a range of other conditions alongside their autism diagnosis. Impaired social skills are characteristic symptoms of ASD, where individuals may struggle with eye contact, reading social cues, and empathizing with others. Repetitive motor behaviors, intense preoccupations, and strict adherence to routines are also common in individuals with ASD. Comorbidity with other disorders is quite frequent in patients with ASD. Up to 30 percent of these patients may develop epilepsy, which is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Moreover, a subset of individuals with specific forms of ASD, such as Fragile X syndrome, may also present with intellectual disabilities. Other disorders, including depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), are prevalent as well and often call for a combination of behavioral therapies and medication as part of the treatment approach for individuals with ASD. It's important to recognize that ASD is a spectrum disorder, meaning that the severity and types of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. While some may face significant challenges, others have good to excellent language skills and can function very effectively in daily life. Such diversity in functionality among individuals with ASD necessitates a tailored approach to treatment and support.