Autism and Related Health Issues
While children on the Autism spectrum are just like other children who get the common cold, flu, or other childhood illnesses, it is important to keep in mind the medical and psychiatric conditions that can exist in individuals with ASD, including but not limited to:
- Anxiety
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD)
- Autoimmune Dysfunction
- Bipolar Disorder
- Depression
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Gender Identity
- Learning disabilities
- Mood Disorders
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Poor coordination
- Schizophrenia
- Sensory issues
One of the reasons it is important to be aware of co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions is because health issues – such as OCD, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and others – have treatment avenues that may be helpful to a child's quality of life. In addition, it is important to note how communication challenges inherent in individuals with ASD may leave the person vulnerable to undiagnosed medical conditions. Common conditions such as constipation, headache, ear infection, or dental problems can be overlooked because the person cannot communicate that something is wrong. Pain can cause a behavior change that is mistakenly thought to be Autism but is an undiagnosed physical illness or problem.
It is important to rule out medical problems when you see a behavior change. Your child's primary care provider (typically a pediatrician or family practice physician) should be your first resource when you are worried about health or other issues.