Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Everything You Need to Know

ADHD is characterized by the continuous display of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that restricts brain development. This disorder mainly affects children and teens and in some cases, continues into adulthood as well.

ADHD symptoms in children are generally grouped into the following 3 categories:

Inattention
• Have a problem in following directions and finishing tasks
• Is easily distracted
• Doesn’t seem to be listening
• Makes careless mistakes
• Fail to recall about daily activities
• Has issues with organizing daily tasks
• Have difficulty in doing things that require them to sit still
• Often loses things and tends to daydream

Hyperactivity
• Often fidgets, squirms, or bounces when sitting
• Doesn’t like to stay seated
• Has trouble playing silently
• Is always on the move
• Talks too much
• Is continuously “on the go,” behaving as if “driven by a motor.”

Impulsivity
• Has trouble waiting in queues
• Interrupts others
• Shouts out answers
• Symptoms in adults include:
• Forgetfulness
• Anxiety and low self-esteem
• Work problems and trouble controlling anger

Substance abuse or addiction
• Impulsiveness
• Procrastination
• Chronic boredom
• Easily frustrated
• Difficulty concentrating when reading
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Relationship problems

ADHD Causes
The root cause of ADHD is still unknown. However, researchers believe heredity and chemical imbalances in the brain play a significant role in it. Other possible causes include:

• Certain infections
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Smoking and drinking during pregnancy
• Improper brain functions
• Injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain that regulates emotions and impulses

Also, Read – Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ADHD and its types

The American Psychological Association (APA) has grouped the conditions of ADHD into three categories to ensure a more consistent diagnosis. They are as follows:

• Predominantly inattentive– In this type of ADHD, people have extreme difficulty focusing, following instructions, and finishing tasks.

• Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type– This type of ADHD causes people to show primarily hyperactive and impulsive behavior.

• Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive type- This is a common type of ADHD where people display both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.

ADD Vs. ADHD

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is an obsolete term used to describe persons who have problems paying attention but aren’t hyperactive. The predominantly inattentive form of ADHD was addressed by the term ADD previously. As of 2013, the term ADD is no longer used to describe the condition officially.

Risk Associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

People with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder usually suffer from anxiety disorder, depression, learning disabilities, conduct disorder, and substance abuse.

Untreated ADHD in adults can lead to severe problems in their personal and professional life. It usually leads to a frequent feeling of depression or low self-esteem. Also, it increases risky behaviors such as drug abuse, smoking, drinking, gambling problems, trouble with the law, and more. They may have difficulty performing activities such as:

• Staying organized
• Meeting deadlines
• Accepting criticism calmly
• Socializing with co-workers

Also Read – Autism & Children with Special Needs

ADHD Treatment and Medication

ADHD treatment can help a patient find relief from the symptoms and can allow them to manage their condition better. Medications, along with different physical therapies, are considered two remarkable remedies for this disorder. Both these remedies usually result in significant improvement in ADHD patients.

If you’re looking for effective Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) treatment, call us or schedule an appointment with our expert doctors today.

Frequently Asked Questions

ADHD isn’t a disability per se, but research indicates that 20% to 30% of children with ADHD have a specific learning disability. So it comes in a group of disabilities. However, ADHD is considered under the “Other Health Impaired” category instead of “Specific Learning Disabilities.” If you have ADHD and it impacts your learning, you are eligible for accommodations under the ADA and Section 504.

Yes, ADHD is linked to chronic fatigue as it shares a common underlying mechanism like ME/CFS. Thus, ADHD may develop in chronic fatigue syndrome and pain.

ADHD can cause a person to feel exhausted as they are restless, frantic, and impulsive. However, it can also cause low motivation, fatigue, and brain fog. The following reasons cause these symptoms:

• Hyperactive
• Hyperfocus
• Sleep issues
• Anxiety

ADHD burnout symptoms include reduced motivation and concentration, feelings of guilt, irritability, depression, cynicism, anxiety, and poor work productivity.

ADHD can cause mental and physical fatigue. To cope with ADHD symptoms, you can take the following steps:

• Relax, in whatever way you prefer
• Figure out a sleep routine for yourself

Mental fatigue due to ADHD can trigger physical, emotional, and psychological exhaustion. You can take these steps to combat fatigue, burnout, and brain fog:

• Accept Help– If you find yourself mentally exhausted and can’t do anything, don’t hesitate to ask someone to help you.
• Find Time for Self-care– It’s important to make some time for yourself to rest and think clearly.

For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 7510 North Forest Drive North Charleston, SC 29420. We serve patients from Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville, North Charleston SC, Ladson SC, Hanahan SC, James Island SC, John’s Island SC, Daniel Island SC, all of South Carolina, Nationally, and Internationally. Patients routinely fly into Charleston to be evaluated by COEM and to enjoy this beautiful city which is a Condé Nast and Travel and Leisure Top Domestic and International Tourist Destination.