To diagnose IED, doctors first eliminate other possible causes of anger and irritability. These include other mental health conditions, substance misuse, and head injuries. The treatment options for IED include CBT and medications such as mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants.
What can I do about IED?
Jul 09, 2018 · Symptoms Diagnosis Causes and risk factors Treatment Complications Get help What is intermittent explosive disorder? Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is a condition that involves sudden...
What are the causes of IED?
Feb 11, 2022 · To diagnose IED, doctors first eliminate other possible causes of anger and irritability. These include other mental health conditions, substance misuse, and head injuries. The treatment options...
What are the symptoms of IED in children?
What are the symptoms of intermittent explosive disorder? Individual experiencing intermittent explosive disorder may display one of more of the following symptoms: Rage; Irritability; Increasing sense of tension; Racing thoughts; Increased energy; Tremors; Palpitations; Chest tightness; Temper tantrums; Shouting; Being argumentative; Getting into fights; Threatening …
What are the different types of IED treatment?
Feb 18, 2016 · Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is regarded as a subtype of impulse control disorder characterized by impulsive, uncontrollable explosive outbursts of anger, aggression, and/or rage – sometimes accompanied by violence.
How do you treat IED?
What causes IED disorder?
Can IED disorder be cured?
What medications are used to treat IED?
How do I stop an explosive anger?
- Check yourself. It's hard to make smart choices when you're in the grips of a powerful negative emotion. ...
- Don't dwell. ...
- Change the way you think. ...
- Relax. ...
- Improve your communication skills. ...
- Get active. ...
- Recognize (and avoid) your triggers.
Is there any medicine to control anger?
Is IED a mental illness?
How is IED diagnosed?
What drugs cause anger?
Is IED genetic?
Genetic: Intermittent explosive disorder is believed to be hereditary for some people. Especially in those with a first-degree relative who suffers from this condition, research has concluded that some individuals have a genetic predisposition to the development of IED.
What is intermittent explosive disorder?
Intermittent explosive disorder involves repeated, sudden episodes of impulsive, aggressive, violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts in which you react grossly out of proportion to the situation. Road rage, domestic abuse, throwing or breaking objects, or other temper tantrums may be signs of intermittent explosive disorder.
What mental health disorders are associated with intermittent explosive disorder?
History of other mental health disorders. People who have antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder or other disorders that include disruptive behaviors, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have an increased risk of also having intermittent explosive disorder.
Can intermittent explosive disorder be passed down?
Differences in how the brain works. There may be differences in the structure, function and chemistry of the brain in people with intermittent explosive disorder compared to people who don't have the disorder.
Can explosive disorder be passed down from parents to children?
There may be a genetic component, causing the disorder to be passed down from parents to children. Differences in how the brain works. There may be differences in the structure, function and chemistry of the brain in people with intermittent explosive disorder compared to people who don't have the disorder.
What age does explosive disorder start?
Causes. Intermittent explosive disorder can begin in childhood — after the age of 6 years — or during the teenage years. It's more common in younger adults than in older adults. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, but it's probably caused by a number of environmental and biological factors. Environment.
What are the factors that increase the risk of developing intermittent explosive disorder?
Risk factors. These factors increase your risk of developing intermittent explosive disorder: History of physical abuse. People who were abused as children or experienced multiple traumatic events have an increased risk of intermittent explosive disorder. History of other mental health disorders.
How to avoid explosive episodes?
Stick with your treatment. Attend your therapy sessions, practice your coping skills, and if your doctor has prescribed medication, be sure to take it. Your doctor may suggest maintenance medication to avoid recurrence of explosive episodes. Practice relaxation techniques.
Medication
Although no specific medications exist for IED, there are still many effective options, such as:
Therapy
Doctors may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with IED. CBT allows people to understand and recognize the situations that cause their severe outbursts of anger.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that leads to unusual changes in mood, activity levels, energy, concentration, and the ability to complete regular, daily tasks.
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
Doctors may diagnose ODD in children who have tantrums, are unusually angry, do not follow the rules, or harm others on purpose. Children with ODD exhibit this extreme behavior for at least 6 months.
How does intermittent explosive disorder affect people?
Intermittent explosive disorder can have a very negative impact on an individual’s health and life. It can lead to trouble in personal relationships and marriages. It can negatively impair a person’s relationships and judgment at work and school.
What causes intermittent explosive disorder?
The cause of intermittent explosive disorder is unknown, but some contributing factors have been identified. They include: 1 A genetic component (occurs in families) 2 Being exposed to verbal and physical abuse in childhood 3 Brain chemistry (varying levels of serotonin) can contribute to the disorder 4 Having experienced one or more traumatic events in childhood 5 A history of mental health disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder 6 Nearly 82 percent of those with intermittent explosive disorder have also had depression, anxiety or substance abuse disorder
How long does intermittent explosive disorder last?
However, according to studies, it is thought that intermittent explosive disorder is a long-term condition, lasting from 12 years to 20 years or even a lifetime.
When does explosive disorder start?
Intermittent explosive disorder usually begins in the early teens, but can be seen in children as young as six. It is most common in people under the age of 40.
What is an IED?
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is regarded as a subtype of impulse control disorder characterized by impulsive, uncontrollable explosive outbursts of anger, aggression, and/or rage – sometimes accompanied by violence. To be considered intermittent explosive disorder, the explosive outbursts of anger must be triggered in situations and/or conditions in which such anger is unjustified. In other words, someone who explodes with anger after discovering that his/her wife was unfaithful – would not be considered to have intermittent explosive disorder.
How long does an IED last?
In most cases, each episode lasts less than 30 minutes in duration. It should also be noted that some individuals may exhibit a mix of A1 and A2 criteria and/or tendencies in that they may have infrequent, highly intense outbursts followed by frequent, lower intensity outbursts.
Is intermittent explosive disorder a mental disorder?
Intermittent Explosive Disorder (Diagnostic Criteria) In the early editions of the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), there was no formal diagnosis for “intermittent explosive disorder.”.
What factors increase the likelihood of intermittent explosive disorder?
Ongoing stress: Another environmental factor that was shown to increase likelihood of intermittent explosive disorder is ongoing or chronic stress. If you’re in a highly stressful environment to the extent that you’re never able to relax or feel safe, intermittent explosive disorder is more likely to develop.
Is it possible to develop intermittent explosive disorder?
If you’re in a highly stressful environment to the extent that you’re never able to relax or feel safe, intermittent explosive disorder is more likely to develop. Parental bonding: Research has shown a link between parental bonding and development of intermittent explosive disorder.
What is the link between parental bonding and explosive disorder?
Particularly, individuals who don’t receive proper parental care or form bonds with their parents tend to be at greatest risk for IEDs.
What is the role of genetics in explosive disorder?
Genetics / Epigenetics: Your genetics are thought to play a role in determining your susceptibility to develop intermittent explosive disorder. If a family member has been diagnosed with intermittent explosive disorder (or an impulse control disorder), you may be at greater risk.
How to diagnose intermittent explosive disorder?
To determine a diagnosis of intermittent explosive disorder and eliminate other physical conditions or mental health disorders that may be causing your symptoms, your doctor will likely: Do a physical exam. Your doctor will try to rule out physical problems or substance use that could be contributing to your symptoms.
What type of therapy is used for intermittent explosive disorder?
A commonly used type of therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy , helps people with intermittent explosive disorder: Identify which situations or behaviors may trigger an aggressive response. Learn how to manage anger and control inappropriate responses using techniques such as relaxation training, thinking differently about situations ...
How to deal with an explosive temper?
Consider taking these steps before an emergency arises: Call a domestic violence hotline or a women's shelter for advice, either when the abuser isn't home or from a friend's house. Keep all firearms locked away or hidden.
What to do if you have a repeated emotional outburst?
If you're concerned because you're having repeated emotional outbursts, talk with your doctor or make an appointment with a mental health professional who specializes in treating emotional disorders, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or social worker.
How to deal with anger in therapy?
Coping well with anger is a learned behavior. Practice the techniques you learn in therapy to help you recognize what triggers your outbursts and how to respond in ways that work for you instead of against you. Developing a plan.
What are the symptoms of an IED?
IED is a behavioral disorder characterized by repeated episodes of explosive rage that is disproportionate to the triggering situation, according to the Child Mind Institute. These episodes are normally intense and brief, lasting less than 30 minutes each. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of IED might include: 1 temper tantrums 2 tirades 3 heated arguments 4 shouting 5 slapping, shoving or pushing 6 physical fights 7 property damage 8 threats or assaults to people or animals
What does it mean when someone has an IED?
Instead, the person is unable to resist angry impulses. People with IED may describe feeling out of control.
What is the treatment for intermittent explosive disorder?
Psychotherapeutic. Therapy and counseling may include both the patient and his or her family. One of the mainstays of treatment is cognitive behavior therapy (C BT).
How long does an IED last?
These episodes are normally intense and brief, lasting less than 30 minutes each. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of IED might include:
Is an IED premeditated?
These episodes are generally neither premeditated nor executed with a tangible objective, according to the Child Mild Institute. Instead, the person is unable to resist angry impulses. People with IED may describe feeling out of control. Some say there is a build up of tension in the head and chest prior to an episode.
What does it feel like to have an IED?
Once the episode has passed, they may feel a sense of relief and fatigue. They may also feel regret, remorse, or embarrassment. In addition to rage, individuals with IED may experience increased energy, racing thoughts, tremors or a tingling feeling, and heart palpitations during the episode, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Can IED cause remorse?
They may also feel regret, remorse, or embarrassment. In addition to rage, individuals with IED may experience increased energy, racing thoughts, tremors or a tingling feeling, and heart palpitations during the episode, according to the Mayo Clinic. IED is a chronic condition, however the frequency and severity of episodes may decrease with age.
What Is Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
Intermittent explosive disorder makes you aggressive and violent without any specific reason. It involves a series of verbal outbursts, physical fights, and sudden anger.
What Are the Causes of Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
Several environmental and genetic factors can contribute to this disorder's development. Some known intermittent explosive disorder causes include:
What Are the Symptoms of Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
An intermittent explosive disorder episode can happen at any time. Some people have episodes daily, while others stay nonaggressive for weeks and months. A typical incident lasts for less than 30 minutes.
How Is Intermittent Explosive Disorder Diagnosed?
Doctors usually consult the standard Psychiatric Diagnostic Manual to diagnose the disorder better. It says that an individual must experience three episodes of IED at any stage of their life to be diagnosed.
What Is the Treatment for Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
The best intermittent explosive disorder treatment is psychotherapy. Some doctors may also suggest medications along with the therapy.
Can Intermittent Explosive Disorder Be Prevented?
People with IED usually don't have control over themselves. You can control your anger, though, with professional treatment and by following some tips:
What are the symptoms of an IED?
Irritability. Feelings of guilt. Agitation. Feelings of shame. Rage. Low frustration tolerance. Effects. Effects of IED. The symptoms of IED can infringe upon a person’s life in several ways if appropriate treatment is not sought.
What are the effects of an IED?
Feelings of guilt. Agitation. Feelings of shame. Rage. Low frustration tolerance. Effects. Effects of IED. The symptoms of IED can infringe upon a person’s life in several ways if appropriate treatment is not sought. With the potential of causing life-changing consequences, the following detrimental effects are known to occur when symptoms ...
What are the consequences of intermittent explosive disorder?
With the potential of causing life-changing consequences, the following detrimental effects are known to occur when symptoms of intermittent explosive disorder persist: Development of another mental health condition. Poor peer interactions. Social withdrawal / isolation.
What are the causes of IED?
Causes and Risk Factors. Causes and risk factors for IED. Since experts in the field of mental health have yet to determine an isolated cause for the development of IED, it is believed that this mental illness stems from a combination of genetic, physical, and environmental contributors.
Can IED be inherited?
Because of this, it can be concluded that intermittent explosive disorder can be inherited.
How long does an IED last?
Outbursts, which can last for about thirty minutes at a time, happen with or without provocation, and are often grossly out of proportion to the initial trigger. Children and adolescents are believed to be most affected by IED, though symptoms of this disorder can carry over into adulthood if they are allowed to persist.
Can an IED infringe on a person's life?
The symptoms of IED can infringe upon a person’s life in several ways if appropriate treatment is not sought. With the potential of causing life-changing consequences, the following detrimental effects are known to occur when symptoms of intermittent explosive disorder persist:
What to do if you are not going to seek treatment for intermittent explosive disorder?
Consider Harm Reduction. If you are not going to seek treatment for Intermittent Explosive Disorder, or try to reduce symptoms in any way, you may consider a harm-reduction approach, which entails avoiding those situations where you put yourself or others in danger because of your behavior.
What is intermittent explosive disorder?
Intermittent Explosive Disorder is a condition where an individual’s ability to resist aggressive impulses is impaired, resulting in outward fits of physical and verbal aggression. In many instances, adults who experience Intermittent Explosive Disorder have a related legal or criminal history.
What are the conditions that co-occur with intermittent explosive disorder?
Here are some common conditions that often co-occur with Intermittent Explosive Disorder: 5. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Conduct disorder.
Overview
- Intermittent explosive disorder involves repeated, sudden episodes of impulsive, aggressive, violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts in which you react grossly out of proportion to the situation. Road rage, domestic abuse, throwing or breaking objects, or other temper tantrums may be signs of intermittent explosive disorder. These intermittent, ...
Symptoms
- Explosive eruptions occur suddenly, with little or no warning, and usually last less than 30 minutes. These episodes may occur frequently or be separated by weeks or months of nonaggression. Less severe verbal outbursts may occur in between episodes of physical aggression. You may be irritable, impulsive, aggressive or chronically angry most of the time. Ag…
Causes
- Intermittent explosive disorder can begin in childhood — after the age of 6 years — or during the teenage years. It's more common in younger adults than in older adults. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, but it's probably caused by a number of environmental and biological factors. 1. Environment.Most people with this disorder grew up in families where explosive beha…
Risk Factors
- These factors increase your risk of developing intermittent explosive disorder: 1. History of physical abuse.People who were abused as children or experienced multiple traumatic events have an increased risk of intermittent explosive disorder. 2. History of other mental health disorders.People who have antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder or oth…
Complications
- People with intermittent explosive disorder have an increased risk of: 1. Impaired interpersonal relationships.They're often perceived by others as always being angry. They may have frequent verbal fights or there can be physical abuse. These actions can lead to relationship problems, divorce and family stress. 2. Trouble at work, home or school.Other complications of intermitten…
Prevention
- If you have intermittent explosive disorder, prevention is likely beyond your control unless you get treatment from a professional. Combined with or as part of treatment, these suggestions may help you prevent some incidents from getting out of control: 1. Stick with your treatment.Attend your therapy sessions, practice your coping skills, and if your doctor has prescribed medication, …