QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
My father has frequent temper tantrums (he is now 73 years old). Is there anything one can do to avoid these frequent flare-ups? How should one react?
ANSWER:
It's always best for you to remain calm, although at times that can be a very,
very difficult thing to do. If he's always had these temper tantrums, then making the
diagnoses and treating them is still the wise thing to do. If they are new, he needs
medical attention due to the change in his "mental status."
Depression, low oxygen, anemia, psychosis, strokes, thyroid disorders and many other
diagnoses can be contributing to the process.
If the temper problems are severe, antipsychotic medications may be necessary.
