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Medical Reasons for Irritability

Everyone experiences irritability sometimes. However, it is crucial to recognize when irritability goes beyond crankiness as it may be an early sign of a mental or physical disorder.

  1. Hypoglycemia

    • A condition fairly common in diabetics, hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop below therapeutic range. Symptoms may include dizziness, cold sweats, fatigue, malaise, nervousness and irritability.

    Meningitis

    • The most recognizable symptoms of meningitis are stiff neck and fever, but according to Healthline.com, irritability and agitation may be symptoms to watch for in children. It is critical to have a physician rule out bacterial causes of meningitis infection, which can lead to fatality.

    Depression

    • Severe depression puts a person at risk for self-harm. CureResearch.com lists persistent sadness, hopelessness, changes in sleep patterns and irritability among the potential symptoms of this debilitating emotional disorder.

    Hydrocephalus

    • When cerebrospinal fluid builds up within the skull, it causes a condition known as hydrocephalus or "water on the brain." It occurs most frequently as a birth defect, but may also be caused by an obstruction. Among the earliest symptoms are irritability and poor temper control uncharacteristic of the person's normal behavior and accompanied by nausea and difficulties with gait.

    Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

    • ADHD is a psychiatric disorder that typically manifests during childhood and often continues into adulthood. Among the myriad of symptoms associated with the disorder are poor attention span, restlessness, lack of self-control, disorganization and irritability.

    Significance of Accompanying Symptoms

    • Irritability can be the first sign of a problem, particularly in emotional or mental disorders. However, if irritability occurs without other symptoms, it is important to realistically consider the setting and degree of irritability. Everyone experiences some degree of irritability periodically, particularly when fatigued or stressed.

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