Expert: Valerie Herskowitz - 9/23/2009

Question
Are autism and adhd related?  Can it be a double disorder?  child -wild temper tantrums beats on 2yr sister, 5yr cousin poor appetite, speaks only maybe adozen words and not on a consistant basis, a type of OCD, poor sleep habits craves certain sweets and would be happy to drink all day long. head bangs. Parents split lives with dad and nana,extremely attached to dad. very little indepent play pulls stuffing out of pillows fringe of blankets, rips books rolls paper, can problem solve when it suits him selective listening.  Hearing already tested-fine Are dad and I correct in pushing and pushing his Dr. for testing? Should he be tested for diabetes as  well? How, also do you deal with a doctor who blows you off and talks to you like you are an idiot? We are hitting brick walls and it is frustrating for the family trying to deal with him as well as the child himself. By the way,he does recieve speech therapy once a week and some progress has been made but not what should be.  Thank you for any insights you can offer.

Answer
Hi Eileen

I hear your frustration. Hyperactivity and attention issues are one part of autism. It seems to me that you have a grandson that is demonstrating many characteristics of a developmental delay.

Not knowing how much influence you have, I would see if you could take the child to a developmental pediatrician, pediatric neurologist who knows about autism, or a psychologist who knows about autism. Also, bring him over to the local school-they will refer you to their special education department who should be able to help you.

Meanwhile, he needs help with this communication which appears to be very delayed. I can help you in this area as well. Let me know if you would like to have a consultation on the phone with me-at least we could get the ball rolling and start improving your grandson's life.