A Look At The Ugly Reality About Symptoms Of ADD And ADHD In Adults

Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults Adults suffering from attention deficit disorder are difficult to diagnose and treat. Therapists can assist by examining the symptoms and their root causes, educating patients on how to add structure and change their behavior, and offering medication when needed. People suffering from ADD/ADHD experience issues with hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. The symptoms include forgetfulness and difficulty in waiting for their turn, or having difficulty working on tasks or games. Inattention Type symptoms This subtype of ADHD is characterized by a high level of distraction, and a lack of focus on small details. Adults who are inattentive ADHD struggle to complete tasks or projects that require constant mental efforts, such as writing and reading. They may have trouble remembering appointments or paying their bills, and are prone making careless errors in work or at home. While the symptoms of inattentive ADHD may have first appeared during childhood, they tend to go undiagnosed because adults are expected to manage their impulsive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms on their own. Their issues can continue throughout their adulthood and impact their relationships, school performance, and career advancement. Inattention ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, difficulty engaging in leisure activities, problems waiting for their turn, and blurting out answers when the questions are not finished. They also are often late to classes or meetings and have difficulty staying organized. Inattention ADHD sufferers often have difficulty staying focused at school or at work. They are not a fan of boring meetings and chew gum or drink coffee to help them through. A health care provider will evaluate the person for potential mental health issues or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They will then analyze their behavior history to determine if they suffer from ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's parents, teachers and colleagues and asking about their behavior in different settings. The health care provider might also inquire about the individual's mood and their recent medical history. Most often, psychostimulants are used to boost alertness and boost brain signals. These include amphetamines like Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta and methylphenidates like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine). Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters within the brain, are also often prescribed to people suffering from inattentive ADHD to help improve their mood and focus. They may include Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Non-stimulant drugs can also be utilized. These are less likely to cause side effects and include guanfacine (Intuniv), bupropion/atomoxetine, and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors such as Strattera. Symptoms of Hyperactive/Impulsive Type People with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD struggle to sit still and remain focused. This is a problem to focus on schoolwork or work tasks and may result in careless mistakes. In addition, they typically have trouble following instructions or completing complicated tasks. They also have trouble staying focused when playing games or engaging in activities of leisure with others. They often disrupt and interrupt other players during games, discussions or other activities. They may fiddle or squirm with their feet or hands or squirm in their seats or pacing as they listen or talk. Children with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADD often have trouble waiting for their turn to speak or play, and they may blurt out their answers before other people have finished speaking. They struggle with self-control and may often be on the go and unable to stop or slow down, even when they're at organized events such as fairs or theme parks. They may have trouble with organizing tasks, completing long-term projects or applying themselves to homework or other planned activities. They often have a poor sense of personal responsibility and have difficulties making and maintaining friendships. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions, which can cause mood swings and extreme depression. They may also have difficulty managing their time and finances which could make them more susceptible to financial scams or other frauds. Many people suffering from ADHD do not get a diagnosis until they reach adulthood, when their issues become more apparent. Teachers or other adults may have missed their symptoms during the early years of their lives. They could have reacted to their symptoms in a supportive atmosphere and thrived until they were faced with the pressure of pursuing an occupation or raising a child, when their issues became apparent. In the early years, the male-to-female* ADHD ratio is higher. However, it becomes more equal in adulthood. People suffering from ADHD often discover that certain dietary supplements, such as multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine, and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can reduce anxiety and improve memory. They may also benefit from stress management techniques that include regular exercises and deep breathing. They should discuss all treatments with their physician which includes stimulants and non-stimulants like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin). Mixed Type Signs and symptoms People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have trouble staying focused on tasks that require mental effort for long periods of time or causing things to stay in their mind like schoolwork, homework, chores or work. They tend to make careless errors at school, work and even in their personal life. These issues with attention and impulse can cause stress and cause relationship difficulties. The symptoms of this condition typically manifest at different times in life, and they may vary from mild to severe. They include daydreaming and being easily distracted by their own thoughts, which can lead to forgetfulness; a tendency to lose things, like homework or keys and difficulty focusing on tasks. inattentive ADHD in adults symptoms may also have a difficult time staying still and may interrupt or take over the activities of leisure or games. It's important to evaluate the results of each medication carefully in the event of a mixed presentation. Adults who have experienced this condition since they were teens should have their treatment reviewed every six months, especially in the event of any lifestyle changes that may impact the amount of medication needed. It is important to remember that ADD or ADHD does not affect race or ethnicity or gender, but it does seem to affect more people who are assigned a male at birth (AMAB). The diagnosis is usually made when adults present with many of the common symptoms in several areas of their lives and cannot explain them clearly. There are what is ADHD symptoms in adults of ways to deal with ADD for adults, such as medication, lifestyle changes and behavior therapy. A combination of treatments is usually the best option, and medication can be prescribed in various forms, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), and atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications improve concentration by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available, and these can be an excellent option for adults who don't want to take stimulants or require them at less of a dose. Symptoms of Combined Type For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. Inattention symptoms include forgetfulness, difficulties completing tasks, or having trouble staying still. Impulsivity and hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting or squirming. They have a difficult time learning to stay in line or follow instructions. This can result in frustration and rule-breaking behaviors. Adults with a mix of ADHD symptoms also often have difficulty recognizing social boundaries in a situation and can be seen to intrude on conversations or activities without considering how others might be feeling about it. They are more likely to have a hard time with organizational strategies and are often overwhelmed by complicated projects. Many people who suffer from this ADHD also have a previous history of mood disorders or depression. A correct diagnosis is crucial to determine the best treatment plan. Many adults with ADHD are reluctant to seek assistance. However an accurate diagnosis can empower them and give them the tools needed to manage their symptoms. To receive a diagnosis, doctors must identify at least six symptoms of inattention and at least five symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity to a degree that interferes with daily functioning. These symptoms must be present prior to age 12 and last for at least six months to qualify as an ADHD diagnosis. The symptoms must also be severe enough to negatively impact the performance of a child at the workplace, at school or at home. Experts aren't sure why ADHD occurs, but they are aware that it could be hereditary and that certain genes increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. They also know that brain chemistry and variations in the structure of the brain can play a role, and that some people suffer from the disorder without having a family history. There are various behavioral treatments for adult ADHD, including structured routines and organizational strategies, talk therapy (Cognitive-behavioral therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), exercise and healthy sleep habits. These therapies are usually more effective than prescription medications.