Can a person have both ADHD and autism?

Answer 1

Yes, a person (child or adult) can have both narcolepsy and ADHD. While these conditions can be independently present at the same time (i.e. one is not causing the other), it is often the case that the narcolepsy ends up creating the symptoms of ADHD. This is primarily because the poor sleep regulation and excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy can make it difficult to concentrate. They can also lead to various degrees of depression, which in turn can make concentration difficult. If your child has been diagnosed with narcolepsy, and you are concerned he/she may have ADHD also, you should have him/her evaluated for learning issues by a child psychiatrist. Alternatively, if your child has been diagnosed with ADHD and you now suspect narcolepsy, it would be best to have him/her evaluated by a sleep specialist. These people are equipped to administer either a sleep latency test or polysomnogram test to diagnose even mild cases of narcolepsy. Finally, if your child does end up having both narcolepsy and ADHD, you will want to monitor treatment carefully. Both disorders are treated primarily using psychostimulants like amphetamine or methylphenidate (Ritalin). The drug modafinil (Provigil) is also sometimes used to treat narcolepsy. Adequate treatment of both disorders will likely mean a higher than usual dose of stimulants (or a combination of stimulants)--definitely watch out for adverse reactions so the dose can be adjusted if necessary. If different doctors see your child for each condition, you should make sure the doctors communicate regularly to ensure they are on the same page with the chosen treatment.

Answer 2

A qualified yes as the medication may also have some + benefits on the narcolepsy - in any event the diagnosis and cause of the cause of the narcolepsy should be properly investigated such as with a sleep study

Answer 3

Yes. ADHD and narcolepsy are cousins in terms of mental disorders; both are caused in some way due to a lack of dopamine within the brain and both respond to treatment from stimulants. However, a person most likely would only have one disorder and have an invalid diagnosis for one disorder (i.e. diagnosed with ADHD and has narcolepsy or vice versa).

Answer 4

Yes; it is possible for a person to have both ADHD and autism. It is more likely that a person has one invalid diagnosis, i.e. ADHD misdiagnosed for autism or vice versa. ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder that manifests in poor impulse control, hyperactivity, and inability to concentrate while autism is a social communication disorder.

Answer 5

Yes, but one condition is likely to be more pronounced than the 2nd condition. This is important to determine for finding the right medication and/or related treatment options.

(ADD/HD is co-occuring with a number of other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, and sometimes narcolepsy and/or other things like Learning Disabilities, etc.). Through research and diagnosis, try to single out the most major issues. A good clinical psychologist can help you do so...

Answer 6

Yes, a person can be both Autistic and have ADHD.

The two diagnosis are very similar so misdiagnosis can be common, but they are also comorbid so a person may have both disorders at once. For example I'm diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder but due to my struggles with reading, focus, and executive dysfunction it's highly likely I have Attention Deficit Hypoactivity Disorder and I'm currently awaiting formal diagnosis (ADHD also stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - my form doesn't involved the 'hyper' aspect).

Answer 7

The person can only be diagnosed with ADHD when he/she is born.