20 Yr old son w/ Siezures and Autistic and recently behavior problems

lewis7 · December 8, 2005, 12:40am

Hello all, I'm new to this and seeking assistance re my son. He has been an epilepic since 1 yrs old, diagnosed being Autistic since 8yrs. Has been on all sorts of meds, lastly Depakote for about 8 yrs now. He also has the VNS (Vagus Nerve Stimulator). He has been experiencing strange behavior, not wanting anyone to touch him, having fits and with him being 20 he is a strong guy. Everyone who deals with him from the bus driver to his school teacher has been having problems with him. The docter recently put him on respriadol (sp), which I hate because its more meds to just drug him up. This time in order to calm him down, we had to increase the dosage. Anyone out there having behavior problems with their adult disabled kids? Thanks for your advice.

Uhura · December 8, 2005, 3:07am

I'm not sure how much I can help you but I want to reply. I have had epilepsy for the past 9 years. I was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (on the autism spectrum but high functioning) last April but probably have always had it.

I don't know about behavior problems from either of the conditions (except for the meltdowns associated with Autism/Autism spectrum disorders) but those of us on the spectrum react differently to medicines than people off the spectrum. As a general rule anyway. I am lucky in that all I do is become tolerant of medicines very quickly. I think some people react the opposite of the way the medicine is supposed to affect them.

As far as not wanting to be touched-has he alwasy felt that way about that? I have. I hate it. I can handle hugs and things from certain people and from family without too much of a problem but to me, and to some others on the spectrum, being touched is very intense. I hate it when people come up and put their hand on my shoulder or waist as they say hi. And I don't do eye contact either.

Good luck to both you and your son. I hope you can find answers that require the least medicine possible.

Uhura

Uhura · December 8, 2005, 3:20am

Also, food makes a big difference in how myself and others on the spectrum are emotionally. Is he eating anything new?

lewis7 · December 8, 2005, 5:28pm

Thanks Uhura. As far as his not wanting to be touched, its gotten worse lately.

His diet has not changed either. This is something I really try to monitor. Thanks.