Exploring gastrointestinal challenges and their effect on the social life of autistic adults

Abdulnasser Ali, Karola Dillenburger

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) problems can significantly affect the health, comfort, and quality of life of everyone. The book review in the last issue of the GAP Journal on Virginia Bovell’s recent book about the GI difficulties experienced by her son Danny is a powerful testament to this. This paper provides an overview of GI issues with a focus specifically on autistic adults. Several studies reveal that GI problems are more common among autistic adults than in the general population, with 46% to 84% experiencing symptoms like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, and gastroesophageal reflux. Addressing these GI issues needs an understanding of contributing factors, including altered gastrointestinal motility, sensory sensitivities, dietary influences, and communication challenges that can complicate the diagnosis of GI problems. Management strategies range from behavioral and lifestyle changes and dietary and nutritional interventions to pharmacological treatments and comprehensive interdisciplinary support. This paper reviews the literature on GI and autism and highlights the most common GI issues experienced by autistic adults. The Editor welcomes papers on this topic which share effective practice in recognizing and/or managing GI problems.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages13
JournalGood Autism Practice
Publication statusAccepted - 15 Jan 2025

Keywords

  • autism
  • gastrointestinal

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Sciences(all)
  • Psychology(all)

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