Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattention type). She had trouble keeping up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was prone to not remembering appointments and losing track of time. She had low self-esteem, a negative outlook and an ongoing sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattention ADHD have trouble paying attention to details and making careless mistakes. They have trouble recalling information they've learned and could forget to complete homework assignments or even a project. They often misplace keys, wallets and other items they require to live with. This is why they often arrive late for appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to spot as they wiggle in their seats, fidget or talk all the time, children with the inattentive kind of ADD slip under the radar because they don't display overt behavioral issues. This subtype of ADD is more prevalent among girls than in boys. female adhd symptoms are unaware of their symptoms as they don't fit into the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD struggle to follow directions at home and at work. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have trouble listening to lectures or conversations, and they are easily distracted by non-related media such as the internet or television. Signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as laziness or apathy. A lot of adults are annoyed when they are constantly reminded of missed obligations by their family or friends.
It is important to recognize that inattentive ADD symptoms may also be caused by other causes, including stress, other mental health issues, or physical illnesses. A thorough evaluation by a health care professional or mental health professional is needed to determine the presence of symptoms and to determine if treatment is needed. They will collect a complete medical history, perform a physical exam and discuss your life style to help determine any other issues that might contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from people with ADD are not able to shift their focus, and instead are focused on specific tasks. They can also be extremely organized, which may confuse some people and cause an incorrect diagnosis. Because they tend to lack serotonin and dopamine, these individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD medication that increases serotonin and dopamine. This can actually aggravate their ADD symptoms.
These individuals can feel suffocated due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, which causes them to struggle with depression and anxiety. They are also prone to get stuck in negative behaviors and thought patterns that are difficult to break out of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and alter negative patterns, mindfulness techniques to lessen rumination, as well as skill training have shown positive results for adults with Overfocused ADD.
When someone suffers from hyper-focused ADD the brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which can result in hyper-focus and a mood swing. Stimulant ADD medication can stimulate this area of the brain to a great extent, which can exacerbate their symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated treatments have been proven to be helpful for these people.
People who suffer from over-focused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can create stress and tension in relationships. Some of their symptoms can be alleviated by creating a schedule by using an electronic planner and joining communities that support. Couples coaching for ADD can be beneficial in setting clear roles and expectations for both partners. This can improve communication, and allow both parties to lead an enlightened lifestyle. The most effective approach to treating ADD/ADHD is always working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to discover a treatment plan to assist you in managing and reducing your symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients also often suffer from anxiety. It could be a few irritating concerns or a more severe anxiety disorder like social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. It doesn't matter if it is an anxiety that is mild or chronic, severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your work and personal life. Almost 80% of people with ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most frequent disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types of ADD." This kind is characterized by a heightened anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a disordered brain. In this case it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are hyperactive or out of balance. This includes the prefrontal cortex and limbic system.
People who suffer from this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli, such as noise, light and touch. They are more prone to reacting too quickly and are prone to a quick temper. They are susceptible to repetitive negative thoughts and behavior and are often involved in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive, argumentative and oppositional personality.
The treatment for this kind involves balancing GABA with dopamine and promoting relaxation. This kind of ADD requires that individuals have enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume a balanced diet. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible they should follow the same routine for sleeping and getting up and follow it daily. Additionally, they should try to incorporate physical activities into educational or work-related tasks. For instance, if they have a desk job and they are sitting, they should stand or walk around at least once per hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterized by overactivity in the Cerebral Cortex, as well as increased activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. Those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD are likely to exhibit all the classic symptoms of ADHD, including trouble staying focused and impulsive behaviour. They might also experience high levels of anxiety, erratic thoughts and irritation. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimulation and are often highly inflexible and argumentative.
People who have Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms appear to be similar. The difference is that people with Bipolar Disorder have periods of mania or depression as those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms continuously.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are often related to an imbalance in brain chemical. Treatment is usually aimed at resolving this imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, people can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and live a healthy and balanced life.
If you're dealing with Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms, it's important to seek assistance from a qualified medical professional. Dr. Daniel Amen has some valid points despite the fact that his work is seen with skepticism in the medical community. By recognizing the various types of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you will be able to get the help you need. Contact a specialist to receive a valid diagnose and start on the path towards a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the kind that most people think of when they hear the term ADHD. It is characterized by all the signs of inattention ADD however it also has hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. The people who suffer from this form of ADD struggle with organization, planning, prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted, and lack the mental endurance to finish tasks they do not enjoy. They are not usually labeled as "hyperactive," but they have trouble following instructions and often miss appointments. They have low dopamine levels as well as a decreased flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and experience difficulties in dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They might have a history of familial abuse or trauma or have experienced a difficult divorce. Individuals with limbic ADD have less activity in their prefrontal cortex as well as irregularities in the temporal lobes that regulate mood. Treatment for this kind of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants that regulate neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing the causes, treating and treating all types adult ADD. His unique testing method helps identify the causes of each patient's symptoms and determines the most appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.