Behavioral disorders in adults with intellectual disabilities and autism (IDD/A) can be complex, with symptoms often rooted in underlying medical conditions. Dr. Sailaja Musunuri, Chief of Psychiatry and Executive Vice President of Integrative Medicine, and Dr. Oluwafunmike Ojewoye, Medical Director at Woods Healthcare, recently shared their insights on this critical topic. Their discussion highlighted the challenges of diagnosing medical causes of behavioral disorders in adults with IDD/A, as well as the importance of integrated care for holistic treatment.
The Link Between Medical Conditions and Behavioral Disorders
Adults with intellectual disabilities or autism frequently experience behavioral disorders, yet these behaviors often stem from undiagnosed medical conditions. According to Dr. Ojewoye, medical causes are a common factor in behavioral issues in adults with IDD/A, including issues like ear infections, constipation, and seizure disorders. Conditions that might go unnoticed in the general population can become severe in adults with intellectual disabilities due to communication barriers and atypical symptom presentations.
For example, an ear infection might lead to face-slapping, a headache to head-banging, or constipation to agitation. Such behaviors could be mistaken as mere “behavioral problems” if caregivers and providers don’t rule out medical causes. As Dr. Musunuri explained, assessing physical health is essential before attributing any behavior solely to psychiatric or behavioral origins. Behavioral disorders in adults may mask an underlying medical problem that, when treated, could significantly reduce symptoms.
Challenges in Identifying Medical Causes of Behavioral Disorders in Adults
Detecting medical causes of behavioral disorders in adults with IDD/A can be challenging. Adults with intellectual disabilities or autism often face limitations in expressing pain or discomfort, complicating the diagnostic process. Caregivers and families play a crucial role in observing behavioral changes and communicating these with healthcare providers. Dr. Ojewoye emphasized that input from caregivers is invaluable for clinicians trying to piece together potential medical reasons for behavioral shifts.
Many healthcare providers may lack the necessary resources or expertise to connect behavioral symptoms with potential medical conditions, especially when multiple specialists are involved. Woods Healthcare addresses this challenge through an integrated approach that streamlines communication among medical, behavioral, and dental teams. This model allows for coordinated, efficient care, ultimately benefiting the patient by reducing the need for families to juggle appointments across different facilities.
Tips To Help Caregivers Identify Adult Behavioral Disorders
For caregivers of adults with intellectual disabilities, recognizing when behavioral disorders may have a medical cause is essential. Dr. Musunuri advises caregivers to advocate strongly for their loved ones and to consult with healthcare providers if they notice sudden behavioral changes. Preventive care appointments, such as routine dental visits, are also vital. Even a simple dental issue like a cavity can contribute to discomfort that manifests as a behavioral disorder in adults with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, families should familiarize themselves with local resources and organizations that can assist with care coordination.
Case Study: When Strep Throat Mimics Neurological Issues
Dr. Ojewoye recounted a case where an adult with IDD/A presented with unusual body movements initially thought to be neurological. After a detailed evaluation by a neurologist and an optometrist, the patient was diagnosed with strep throat. The untreated infection had triggered neurological symptoms. Once treated with antibiotics, the abnormal body movements subsided, and the patient’s behavior normalized. This case underscores how seemingly minor medical issues can significantly impact behavior and quality of life if left untreated.
Integrated Healthcare Providers for Individuals with IDD/A
Woods Healthcare provides a unique, integrative approach that combines medical, behavioral, and dental services on one campus. Our unique “one-stop-shop” model also brings together specialists in neurology, audiology, podiatry, and allied health, among others, all in one location. The center’s interdisciplinary team fosters collaboration between healthcare providers and caregivers, making it easier to identify and address both medical and behavioral problems in adults. With specialists available on-site and sensory-friendly environments, Woods Healthcare is designed to support the unique needs of individuals with IDD/A.
To meet with one of our specialists, make an appointment here or call us at (215) 750-4004.
