Irritability

Irritability
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Psychiatry, Neurology
Symptoms	Agitation, frustration, anger, mood swings
Complications	Stress, anxiety, depression
Onset	Any age
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Stress, sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, mental health disorders
Risks	Chronic stress, mental health disorders, substance abuse
Diagnosis	Clinical assessment, patient history
Differential diagnosis	Anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes
Medication	Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths

Irritability is a feeling of agitation that you might experience when you're stressed or tired. Although it can often be confused with anger, irritability is more about your intolerance towards others and your environment.

Causes

Irritability can be caused by several factors, including:

• Stress: This is one of the most common causes of irritability. When you're stressed, you may find it difficult to relax or to think clearly, which can make you feel irritable.
• Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can also make you feel irritable. This is because your body needs sleep to function properly.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can also cause irritability.
• Mental health conditions: Certain mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, can cause irritability.
• Physical health conditions: Certain physical health conditions, such as hypothyroidism or diabetes, can also cause irritability.

Treatment

Treatment for irritability depends on its cause. If it's due to a physical health condition, treating that condition may help reduce your irritability. If it's due to a mental health condition, psychotherapy or medication may be helpful. Lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress, can also help.

See also

• Anger
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress