Intermittent Explosive Syndrome-what is it?

Intermittent explosive syndrome is a behavioral disorder that is usually characterized by an extreme expression of anger, sometimes reaching to a point of being uncontrollable. However, this uncontrollable rage cannot be explained because it is entirely far and different from the situation available at the present time.

A normal person who expresses sudden acts of violent and aggressive behavior in reaction to an event that is just normal in nature is observed to be having disorder. It is also called Episodic Dyscontrol syndrome or Intermittent Explosive syndrome.

Medical researchers do not know the real cause of the Intermittent Explosive syndrome. Some surmised that it may be caused by  abnormalities in the nervous system. Nevertheless, some evidences point to some link between this disorder and mild neurological problems. Also, similarity to those associated with learning disabilities was observed.

It is also observed that the increase of person’s risk of acquiring this disorder are due to child abuse and neglect, inconsistency of child’s discipline, parents who abused drugs or alcohol, or parents who are consistently always away. Families who are in the lower socio-economic status and frequent conflicts of spouses also increase the risk of acquiring the condition. Psychiatric disorder could also be a risk factor.

The signs and symptoms of this condition are repeated acts of sudden verbal or physical aggression or not being able to stop or control the impulsive and aggressive action to the extent of destroying property. However, it can be observed that the child or person is not violent or aggressive most of the time. The outbreaks of anger are usually isolated.

A person may be diagnosed to have this disorder if he or she had at least three episodes where he or she lost control and destroyed property which is completely out of proportion to any provocation that happened. A medical evaluation may have to be done though, and a medical history and physical is important for assessment. A complete psychological evaluation must be done also to rule out other medical or mental disorder.

This kind of disorder is not contagious but may pose some social problems or, more seriously, legal problems as a result of the person’s aggressive behavior. This behavior may also create some problems if your child shows this aggressive behavior in school.

This condition can be treated medically coupled with psychologically treatment. A wide variety of medications can be given like antidepressants, antipsychotic, anti-anxiety, and anticonvulsant drugs. There can be side effects of medicines that will be observed like allergic reactions to the medication, or drowsiness, and more. Psychotherapy must be done by a professional psychotherapist. With an effective professional treatment, the child or person may lead a normal life.