AS or Bipolar or both?

[Rissa0204]

Hi. My son is only 7. He was previously diagnosed as ADHD/ODD/Bopolar. His new doc has decided to test his for AS. It's her specialty & so I'm sure she knows the signs. However, I'm nervous as heck. Jay has always been hard to handle. He throws horrible tantrums, sometimes over the smallest things (like the corner of a poptart breaking). The tantrums can last anywhere from 5 mins to 3 hours. He gets frustrated easily & sounds are often a part of his frustration. His sister singing has set him off multiple times. He's a great kid, but I don't really know how to handle him sometimes. He says he doesn't understand why everyone is mean to him (when correcting a behavior). I'm really not sure any more. Any advice?

 

[BruceCM]

Certainly could be both AS & bipolar. My parents certainly didn't think I was a 'great kid' when I was 'throwing tantrums'! Best wishes with getting the diagnoses sorted out. Hopefully, you'll then even be able to get appropriate help & support for yourself & your son.

 

[Geordie]

It could be possible to have these two conditions co-existing with each other, from personal experience, so long as they fit diagnostic criteria.

 

[mad43]

My daughter who is 23 was diagnosed with Aspergers two years ago - sometimes her tantrums and up and downs were so bad and so often at one point we thought she had bipolar - but she was assessed and she doesnt . When she was diagnosed with aspergers the consultant who specialises in AS knew immediatatly . I would say it is a good thing that you have that DR - and that he wants to test for AS . As there maybe some different treatments that will help your child in years to come . My daughter didnt survive out there without a label - now that she has one it has opened up a whole new life for her - one with approprate support. I hope that helps x.

 

[Arashi222]

In my opinion it sounds a lot like he has AS. I would do the same thing as your son. I still get upset and throw tantrums sometimes (I'm 30yrs old) but my family has understood that. They understand why I threw the fork. He's so young that I don't know if Bipolar would fit him even if he has some of the criteria. In my professional opinon keep your mind open. Figure out what fits best for him, use your instincts as a parent. I hope everything goes well with your son. I hope you can find some good supportive here.