The ADHD Autism Connection
The ADHD Autism Connection...
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An ADHD diagnosis can seem at some times to be overwhelming. But unfortunately, a percentage of children with ADHD also have co-existing disorders.
There are a percentage of children diagnosed with ADHD and autism. In fact there are some researchers who believe that there is an ADHD and autism connection.
ADHD is caused by a chemical imbalance in a child's brain that affects the child's ability to concentrate. ADHD also often affects a child's ability to control their impulses and ability to control their activity level.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs a child's social interactions, and affects their verbal and non-verbal communication.
Symptoms of both ADHD and autism are similar, which can make a diagnosis confusing. Behaviours sometimes associated with ADHD can actually be caused by Autism.
Children diagnosed with ADHD autism may have one disorder that is stronger than the other. But the presence of both disorders makes the condition more difficult to bear and more complicated to treat.
The important thing is to ensure that a child is properly diagnosed and is given the best treatment for any co-existing disorders they suffer from.
Similarities With ADHD Autism Symptoms
Because ADHD and autism symptoms can seem similar it is very important to closely identify the symptom to ensure that the child is treated for the proper disorder.
A custom made treatment plan should be designed for the child based on the presence and severity of each co-existing disorder.
ADHD and Autism symptoms that are similar involve...
Hyperactivity
A child's ADHD symptoms may cause hyperactive behaviour, while autistic symptoms can lead a child to be over-excited and
over-stimulated which may be misinterpreted to be hyperactivity.
Hypersensitivity
An autistic child can be extremely sensitive to textures and touch. A child with ADHD is easily distracted by textures and
touch, which may make them appear to be hypersensitive.
Impulsiveness
ADHD and autism symptoms both include a child acting without thinking things through, such as darting into traffic.
Inability to adjust to change
ADHD and autism both involve symptoms of an inability to deal with changes to routine. Both the ADHD and autistic child
can react negatively to change in routine, making it difficult to distinguish which disorder is causing the reaction.
Social Challenges
A child with ADHD has difficulty acting appropriately in social situations, and can have difficulty bonding with others.
An autistic child lacks ability to create emotional bonds and struggles to interact with others.
Because there appears to be an ADHD and autism connection with some children, it is wise to have a child completely assessed for any co-existing disorders when being assessed for ADHD.
Understanding exactly what you are up against in regards to your child's condition, will allow you to provide the best possible treatment for them.
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