What is irritability?
Irritability is defined as an excessive sensitivity or lack of patience, especially to minor problems or annoyances. It refers to a low frustration tolerance and tendency to react in an agitated, annoyed or angry manner more frequently or intensely than expected.
Some key things to know about irritability:
- It is a common symptom or side effect of various medical conditions like depression, anxiety, hormonal imbalances, sleep deprivation, etc. Irritability caused by medical issues is sometimes called abnormal irritability.
- Situational irritability can occur in anyone when dealing with stressors, frustrations, relationship issues or even minor nuisances like traffic jams. It's generally short-lived.
- Chronic, excessive irritability that occurs without explanation and interferes with work, relationships or quality of life may indicate an underlying condition needing assessment.
What causes irritability?
There are various potential causes, including:
- Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD etc.
- Medical issues like chronic pain, gut inflammation, thyroid dysfunction.
- Medications - steroids, pain medications, antidepressants etc.
- Poor diet, lack of sleep, substance abuse, stress and genetics can also contribute.
How is irritability treated?
- Addressing the underlying cause is key, whether it’s hormones, mental health or medical issues through appropriate treatment, lifestyle changes or supplements.
- Counseling and stress management techniques like CBT, mindfulness, meditation, gentle exercise, social support etc. can help in mild cases.
- Medications like antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs may be used in some cases for abnormal irritability with mental health conditions after other causes are ruled out.