Special Health Issues: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Commonly Associated Conditions

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often have one or more co-occurring medical or mental health conditions. Identifying and treating these conditions is important for supporting the individual's overall health and well-being.

Commonly associated conditions include:

• Intellectual Disability: A significant number of individuals with ASD have a co-occurring intellectual disability, though abilities can range from gifted to severely challenged.
• Seizure Disorders (Epilepsy): Seizure disorders are more common in people with ASD than in the general population.
• Gastrointestinal (GI) Issues: Many children and adults with ASD experience chronic GI problems such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Sleep Problems: Difficulties with falling asleep, staying asleep, and irregular sleep-wake cycles are frequently reported in individuals with ASD.
• Mental Health Conditions: Anxiety and depression are common co-occurring mental health conditions. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) also frequently co-occurs with ASD.
• Motor Coordination Issues: Challenges with motor skills, including clumsiness or difficulties with coordination (sometimes referred to as Developmental Coordination Disorder), can be associated with ASD.

For more information, visit AutismSpeak's Medical Conditions Associated with Autism webpage.