About this topic
Intermittent explosive disorder, or IED, is a mental health problem. It is an impulse control problem. You may have times where you become very angry or violent. Your reaction may be much stronger than most people would have in the same situation. ‚
The times of explosive behavior may last for less than 30 minutes. The outbursts may happen each day, week, or every month. A person with IED is often angry or irritable between outbursts. ‚
What are the causes?
Doctors do not know the exact cause of this kind of behavior. Sometimes, being in a family where there is verbal or physical abuse can make this more likely to happen. A gene passed from a parent to a child may cause this disorder. Using drugs or alcohol can raise your chances for IED. There may be problem with the chemicals in your brain. Stress may also cause this behavior. ‚
What are the main signs?
Often before an outburst, you may feel a strong urge toward aggressive behavior. You may also be very angry and have a lot of racing thoughts. Your hands may shake and you may feel like your heart is beating very fast. People with IED may: ‚
- Have aggressive behavior
- Throw or break things
- Have temper tantrums
- Have road rage
- Abuse or attack others
- Hurt themselves during an outburst
- Have problems in relationships
- Have problems in work, school, or home
- Abuse alcohol or drugs
After an outburst, you may feel upset or embarrassed by what you said or did. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Talk to the doctor about all the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell your doctor about any street drugs you take like meth, cocaine, or heroin. Tell the doctor if you have any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you. ‚
The doctor will also ask questions about your thoughts and behaviors. You may need to have tests based on the types of problems you are having. IED often happens in people who have other mental or physical health problems. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will work to control the signs you are having. You may need to have regular checkups. Sometimes, your doctor may want you to go see a counselor. You may need to have: ‚
- A special type of therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy that will try to:
- Help you learn about your feelings and find safe ways to express them
- Figure out what makes the signs worse
- Deal with the impulses and behaviors
- Drugs to help you control your outbursts
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Lower your caffeine intake. Too much caffeine can cause anxiety. It may also interfere with sleep.
- Make time for 6 to 8 hours of sleep at night. Sleep is important for good mental health.
- Consider working with a talk therapist if anxiety or stress continues to cause problems in your daily life.
- Focus on positive things.
- Use relaxation techniques.
- Take the drugs prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol or any street drug use.
- You may need to avoid people or places that upset you.
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Your doctor may suggest tips to help you learn to relax. ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-04-14 ‚
List_set bdysylist
- Central Nervous System
- Mental Health
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚