General practice·General practice
Irritability
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Irritability is a mood where a person feels easily annoyed, frustrated, or angry, often over small things. It's a symptom, not a condition itself, and can be a sign of an underlying issue.
Key facts
- Irritability is a common symptom and usually temporary.
- It can be caused by physical problems (like lack of sleep) or mental health issues (like stress).
- Treating the underlying cause often helps the irritability go away.
Yes, irritability is very common. Almost everyone feels irritable from time to time, especially during stress or tiredness.
Irritability can affect people of all ages, including children, adults, and older adults. It may show up differently in each age group.