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A 26-year-old female asked:

Is adhd, add and odd forms of autism like aspergers, alway thought they were part of the spectrum?

3 doctor answers6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Aron Tendler
Psychiatry 21 years experience
No: Adhd, add and odd are not related to autistic spectrum disorder at all. Someone can have both. Odd is only in children.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Frank Gaskill
Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics 26 years experience
Aspergers: Aspergers is a over connected mind. Adhd is more of an issue related to executive function and transitions. Many aspies are also adhd but seek out a licensed psychologist to clarify. Here is a video about aspergers that may be informative. Aspergers in 8 mins. http://youtu.be/xg1ngp1ngds.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Johanna Fricke
Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral 52 years experience
40-70% of folks with: Autistic Spectrum Disorder also have ADHD. Signs of adhd = inattention, hyperactivity & impulsivity. Signs of ASD= impairments in social communication & reciprocal social interaction + stereotypies or narrow, restricted areas of interest, so they are different but can co-exist. Seek evaluation from a developmental/behavioral pediatrician, child psychiatrist, neuropsychologist & school district.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Lynne Weixel
Clinical Psychology 38 years experience
The answer reminds us that all DSM Dx terms are a work in progress. They reflect efforts to do a better and better job in understanding problems people face. The conditions named may just be useful (or not) aids for treating people.
Jun 3, 2014
Dr. Johanna Fricke
Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral 52 years experience
Provided original answer
I agree. How symptoms impact function is more important than assigning a label. Sadly, labels are what confer funding & services.
Aug 4, 2014
Last updated Apr 22, 2016

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