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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Medical Symptoms > Irritability in Adults

Irritability in Adults

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Irritability is a state of being overly sensitive to stimulation. Adults who are irritable may easily become impatient or angry.

What is going on in the body?

When a person is irritable, he or she may be responding to something that causes pain, concern, fright, or discomfort. In some cases, a serious medical condition can cause irritability.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Mild irritability in adults is common. It can be due to the person being tired or overworked, having a bad day, or just dealing with long lines and traffic. However, adults may also become irritable from a number of medical conditions, including:

  • injury or infections of any part the body
  • addiction to or withdrawal from drugs, including alcohol, nicotine, or caffeine
  • head injury or intracerebral hemorrhage, which is bleeding inside the brain
  • increased intracranial pressure, which is increased pressure within the brain that can be caused by brain tumors or other conditions
  • infections involving the brain, such as meningitis, an infection of the brain lining
  • elder abuse
  • cancer, such as a brain tumor
  • reaction to medications or vaccines, such as a flu shot
  • any serious illness, such as liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kidney disease, or heart disease
  • emotional or mental disorders, such as anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, depression, abnormal grief, or post-traumatic stress disorder
  • headaches, such as migraines or tension headaches
  • autoimmune disorders, in which a person's immune system attacks his or her own body
  • hormone imbalances, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), diabetes, and hyperthyroidism
  • poisoning from toxic substances, such as lead poisoning
  • vitamin or mineral deficiencies, such as iron or folate deficiency
  • any other new or chronic illness

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    Irritability in Adults: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
    Date Reviewed: 07/13/01



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