**Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) vs. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Key Differences*

 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) vs. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Key Differences



1. Core Symptoms :

   -  ASD : 

     - Social Communication Challenges : Difficulty with social interactions (e.g., understanding nonverbal cues, maintaining eye contact), atypical speech patterns (e.g., echolalia), and delayed language development.

     -  Restricted/Repetitive Behaviors : Repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping), strict routines, intense focus on specific interests, and sensory sensitivities (e.g., aversion to textures or sounds).

   -  ADHD :

     -  Inattention : Distractibility, forgetfulness, poor task organization.

     -  Hyperactivity/Impulsivity : Restlessness, excessive talking, interrupting others, impulsive decisions.





2.  Attention Patterns :

   -  ASD : May exhibit hyper-focus on specific interests, often excluding other activities.

   -  ADHD : Difficulty sustaining attention, especially on non-preferred tasks; attention is scattered.



3.  Social Interaction :

   -  ASD : Struggles stem from misunderstanding social norms or nonverbal cues.

   -  ADHD : Social challenges may arise from impulsivity (e.g., interrupting) or inattention during conversations.


4.  Executive Functioning :

   -  ASD : Challenges with flexibility (e.g., adapting to routine changes).

   -  ADHD  : Issues with organization, time management, and impulse control.

5.  Repetitive Behaviors vs. Hyperactivity :

   -  ASD : Repetitive behaviors (e.g., rocking) are self-soothing or routine-driven.

   -  ADHD : Hyperactivity manifests as excessive movement or fidgeting, not ritualistic.

6.  Sensory Sensitivities :

   -  ASD : More prevalent and intense (e.g., overwhelming reactions to sensory input).

   -  ADHD : Less common; if present, not a core diagnostic feature.

7.  Diagnostic Criteria :

   -  ASD (DSM-5) : Requires early-onset social-communication deficits and restricted/repetitive behaviors.

   -  ADHD (DSM-5) : Requires symptoms of inattention/hyperactivity-impulsivity causing impairment, present before age 12.

8.  Treatment Approaches :

   -  ASD : Behavioral interventions (e.g., ABA), speech/occupational therapy, and support for sensory needs.

   -  ADHD : Stimulant medications (e.g., methylphenidate), behavioral therapy, and organizational strategies.



9.  Comorbidity :

   - Co-occurrence is possible, requiring careful differential diagnosis to tailor interventions.



10.  Gender Presentation :

    -  ASD : Girls may mask symptoms through social imitation.

    -  ADHD : Girls often present with inattentive symptoms rather than hyperactivity.



Summary : 

While both ASD and ADHD are neurodevelopmental disorders with overlapping features (e.g., executive dysfunction), ASD is defined by social-communication deficits and repetitive behaviors, whereas ADHD centers on inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, especially given the potential for comorbidity.

Location: Karachi, Pakistan

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