Common Comorbid Conditions Associated with Autism

There are many conditions that can present along side autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Here are some of the most common comorbid conditions:

ADHD/ADD

Though the diagnostic criteria states that ADHD states that one cannot have and ASD and ADHD at the same time, many people on the autism spectrum display symptoms of ADHD, and some health care providers will actually diagnose both in the same individual. Asperger’s syndrome is commonly misdiagnosed as ADHD.

Anxiety Disorders

Various anxiety disorders are common in individuals on the autism spectrum. Social anxiety is especially common in people with autism and Asperger’s syndrome, due to the social difficulties that ASDs can cause. Social Anxiety Disorder, however, is rarely diagnosed in people with ASDs, as the symptoms are better accounted for by the autism diagnosis. People on the spectrum may also be more prone to panic attacks.

Mental Retardation

Contrary to what some less informed people may claim, mental retardation and autism are not the same thing, though mental retardation does affect a number of low functioning autistic individuals. Many individuals on the spectrum, however, have above average intelligence, especially those with Asperger’s syndrome.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

While autistic individuals have a tendency to become obsessed with their “special interests,” OCD is a separate problem than some people on the spectrum may face. Activities resulting from OCD are not enjoyable to the person affected, whereas their special interests are.

Bipolar Disorder

There is a high incidence of bipolar disorder amongst those diagnosed with high functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome.

Depression

Many people with ASDs exhibit many signs of depression. This may partly be a result of feelings of social isolation often associated with autism spectrum disorders.

Learning Disorders

People on the spectrum may be more likely to experience learning disorders, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and nonverbal learning disorder, amongst others.

Epilepsy

People with autism tend to be more at risk for epilepsy and seizures than the general population. One in four autistic children develop seizures during early childhood or adolescence. Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and the neural differences in autistic individuals may increase the risk.

Tourette Syndrome

Autistic individuals are more likely to also have tourette syndrome than the general population. This is possibly the result of genetic abnormalities and abnormalities relating to dopamine or serotonin.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Some research suggests that people on the spectrum may be more prone to gastrointestinal problems. They may have sensitivities to foods such as dairy and grain products. Many autistic individuals also have permeable intestinal tracts, which is known as “leaky gut syndrome.” Some specialists recommend that autistic individuals go on wheat and dairy free diets.