A Guide to Living With ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also called ADHD, is considered one of the most common behavioral disorders among children. However, teens and adults may also have ADHD. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 6.4 million children between 4 and 17 years of age have ADHD, and the number continues to rise each year. ADHD typically continues through adulthood and affects an estimated 8 to 9 million adults in the United States.
Causes and Risk Factors
ADHD appears to be more common in boys than girls. While the exact cause of ADHD is still not known, recent research has shown that this disorder may be linked to genetic factors and environmental factors, such as excessive exposure to lead or other toxins. Studies involving twins suggest a genetic link to ADHD. Premature birth, low birth weight and significant head injuries may also increase the risk of developing ADHD.
What are the Symptoms of ADHD?
The symptoms of ADHD can be categorized into three groups: inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Types of ADHD |
|---|
Inattentive only (formerly known as attention-deficit disorder [ADD]): Individuals do not display symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity. |
Hyperactive/impulsive: Individuals display both hyperactive and impulsive behavior, but do not have difficulty focusing. |
Combined inattentive/hyperactive/impulsive: Individuals exhibit a combination of inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive behaviors. |
Source: Pharmacy Times |
Examples of Common Symptoms Associated with ADHD |
|---|
Inattentive Symptoms |
-- Difficult paying attention or focusing -- Problems organizing tasks and activities -- Easily distracted or does not appear to listen -- Fails to finish a task or struggles with directions -- Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities -- Forgetful in daily activities or loses things frequently -- Often avoids or dislikes activities that require long periods of concentration or mental effort |
Hyperactive Symptoms |
-- Talks excessively -- Fidgets with hands or feet -- Unable to stay still, even for short periods of time, or squirms in seat -- In constant motion or unable to stay seated -- Has trouble completing quiet tasks or activities |
Impulsive Symptoms |
-- Has difficult taking turns or waiting to take a turn -- Displays extreme impatience -- Often intrudes on others or interrupts others in conversation -- Acts or speaks without thinking |
Source: Pharmacy Times |
When first evaluated by a health care provider, most patients with ADHD primarily have symptoms of inattentiveness; some patients also have a combination of hyperactive and impulsive symptoms.
[Read: Does Your Child Really Have ADHD? ]
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
If you suspect your child has ADHD, talk to your primary health care provider about having your child evaluated. No single test can diagnose ADHD. Typically, a health care professional makes a diagnosis through a multistep evaluation because many other conditions, such as depression, anxiety and learning disabilities, have symptoms similar to those of ADHD. Most children with ADHD have at least one other developmental or behavioral problem. The American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations and diagnostic guidelines for ADHD in children 4 to 18 years of age can be found here.
ADHD in adults may be difficult to diagnose. A health care provider will want to know if you had ADHD symptoms during childhood and will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether you have ADHD.
Treatment
Various treatment options are available for managing ADHD. Your health care provider will determine the best treatment plan. Treatment may include medication and/or behavioral therapy. The most commonly prescribed drugs for treating ADHD are psychostimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines. Additionally, the nonstimulant drug atomoxetine is U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved for treating ADHD.
Therapy is generally tailored to provide the most effective results for each patient. Although the medications will not cure ADHD, they can help control the symptoms if the patient takes the medications as directed by the health care provider. If medication is prescribed, it is important to contact your health care provider if you have any concerns about, or adverse effects from, the medication.
Behavioral therapy, which is designed to increase focusing skills, is often used to help patients control behavior and become better organized.
[See: 8 Things You Didn't Know About Counseling .]
Living With ADHD
Although ADHD is a long-term disorder, the good news is that with proper treatment, it can be managed. Left untreated, it can negatively affect schoolwork, job performance and family and social relationships. Parents and caregivers can help their child by being supportive; praising good behavior; limiting environmental distractions; and ensuring that their child gets an adequate amount of sleep, eats a balanced and nutritious diet and maintains a consistent and organized schedule.
Several organizations provide education and support for patients and families affected by ADHD -- for example, Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder; the Attention Deficit Disorder Association; and the National Institute of Mental Health Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder website. Increasing awareness and knowledge about recognizing and treating ADHD is important for improving the quality of life of patients with ADHD.
[Read: Can Your Relationship Survive ADHD? ]
Note: This article was originally published on March 14, 2014 on PharmacyTimes.com. It has been edited and republished by U.S. News. The original version, with references, can be seen here.
