Autism: 5 Surprising Health Overlaps

Many autistic people experience other health overlaps. Knowing about these can make a real difference in getting the right support — and in feeling truly understood.

Here’s a look at five health overlaps that often walk alongside autism — and how common they are.

1. ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD is one of the most frequent companions with autism. Research shows that somewhere between 30% and 80% of autistic people also experience ADHD traits like challenges with attention, impulsivity, or restlessness. This can sometimes feel like having two busy brains at once, which brings both unique strengths and challenges.

2. Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain

Many autistic adults report ongoing pain, fatigue, or “brain fog” that could relate to fibromyalgia or other chronic pain conditions. Though the research is still growing, it seems around 10–30% of autistic people may face these symptoms. It’s important to acknowledge this pain as real and deserving of compassionate care.

3. POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)

POTS affects the nervous system that controls automatic bodily functions — like blood pressure and heart rate. Among autistic people, especially those assigned female at birth, up to 15–25% may experience dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or faintness when standing. If you or a loved one notices these symptoms, chatting with a GP can be a great first step.

4. MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome)

MCAS is an emerging area of study. It involves allergy-like symptoms—like rashes, swelling, or digestive upset—and some autistic people report these more often than others. While exact numbers aren’t clear yet, it’s a reminder that immune sensitivities deserve attention and understanding.

5. Ehlers–Danlos Syndromes (EDS)

EDS includes conditions that affect connective tissue, leading to super-flexible joints, easy bruising, or frequent injuries. Research shows that about 25–30% of autistic people experience traits linked to EDS, which is higher than in the general population. If joint pain or proprioception (body-awareness) challenges are familiar, it’s worth exploring with a medical professional.

Other Overlaps to Know About

In addition to the five above, autistic people often face other challenges such as:

• Sleep difficulties

• Digestive issues (like IBS or reflux)

• Anxiety and mood variations

• And higher rates of identifying as gender-diverse

Everyone’s experience is different, and that’s okay.

Why Does This Matter?

If you or someone you care for is autistic and dealing with any of these challenges, you’re definitely not alone. Compassionate, informed support is available, and it’s okay to seek out the help that feels right for you. Finding the right person to help you can be difficult but worth searching for.

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult qualified health practitioners for personalised care.