Is there a genetic link between autism and ADHD?

Scientists have long suspected that autism and ADHD share genetic roots. Up to 80 percent of people with autism also meet the criteria for ADHD. Both conditions are highly heritable and often co-occur in families.

What symptoms do ADHD and autism have in common?

Symptoms of ADHD and autism

	ADHD symptoms	Autism symptoms
being easily distracted	✓
frequently jumping from one task to another or quickly growing bored with tasks	✓
unresponsive to common stimuli		✓
difficulty focusing, or concentrating and narrowing attention to one task	✓

What genetic disorders are linked to autism?

Three genetic syndromes that have commonly been reported to be associated with ASD include Fragile X syndrome (FXS), Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.

Is it rare to have autism and ADHD?

An estimated 30 to 80 percent of children with autism also meet the criteria for ADHD and, conversely, 20 to 50 percent of children with ADHD for autism. Given the size of the overlap, scientists are beginning to rethink the relationship between the two conditions and to look for common biological roots.

Are autism and ADHD the same?

The signs of autism, also called autism spectrum disorder or ASD, can range in severity. While ADHD (also known as ADD) isn’t a spectrum disorder, like autism it can produce a range of symptoms . And each symptom can cause a range of difficulty from one child to the next.

Does ADHD medication work for autism?

Clinical studies found that medication for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is effective in coexisting autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but current research is based on small clinical studies mainly performed on children or adolescents.

Is there a connection between ADHD and autism spectrum disorders?

One study identified a rare gene that may be linked to both conditions. This finding could explain why these conditions often occur in the same person. More research is still needed to better understand the connection between ADHD and ASD. The first step in helping your child get the proper treatment is getting a correct diagnosis.

Is it possible to have ADHD and ASD at the same time?

For many years, doctors were hesitant to diagnose a child with both ADHD and ASD. For that reason, very few medical studies have looked at the impact of the combination of conditions on children and adults. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) stated for years that the two conditions couldn’t be diagnosed in the same person.

How does ADHD affect a child’s focus?

Often, children with ADHD have difficulty focusing on one activity or task. When they are engaged in their daily activities they may be easily distracted. It is challenging for children with ADHD to complete one task before jumping to another, and they are often physically unable to sit still.

What is the best medical provider for someone with ADHD and ASD?

The best medical provider for someone who has been diagnosed with both ADHD and ASD is a doctor who has experience treating both conditions. Treatment for ADHD usually includes medication. On the other hand, because the medication options for ASD are still limited, children with ASD may respond better to non-medication alternatives.