Comorbidity, according to the online medical dictionary, is the simultaneous presence of two or more diagnosed conditions in the same person.
As we all know, ASD impairs a person’s speech, language, and communication skills as well as their social skills. In 2021, researchers confirmed that “an estimated 75% of children and young adults on the spectrum are diagnosed with at least one comorbid condition in their lifetime” (Autism Research Institute, 2021).
Some of the diagnosed comorbid conditions in autistic individuals are Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety disorder, sensory processing/integration disorder, specific learning difficulties/disabilities, depression, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), emotion regulation difficulties, and seizure disorders. Some researchers have grouped these comorbid conditions into:
1. Cognitive/Developmental Comorbidities (Language Impairment, Specific Learning Disabilities, and Intellectual Disability).
2. Behavioural/Psychiatric Comorbidities (Hyperactivity or impulsivity, eg., ADHD/ADD, agitation/aggression, depression, OCD, and anxiety).
3. Medical/Physical Comorbidities (severe constipation, seizure disorders, gastrointestinal issues, sleep disorders).
Others also add Genetic Conditions such as tuberous sclerosis and fragile X syndrome.
According to two researchers, Matson and Williams (2013), sometimes these comorbid conditions make it difficult to diagnose ASD and vice versa because most of the symptoms of some of the co-occurring conditions overlap with the symptoms of ASD, e.g., sensory processing, poor social skills, attention and focus problems, and stimming.
As a parent, relative, teacher, or nanny, it is always best to be observant and keep track of your child with ASD. As you seek intervention, remember to also continue with regular assessments, check-ups, and evaluations.
In our subsequent articles, we will look closely at some of the comorbidities.
References:
Andersen, R. (2022). Autism Comorbidity: Conditions Commonly Found with Autism.
www.autism.com/blog/comorbidity-and-autism-an-overview/
