Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattention type). She was having difficulty managing household chores and schoolwork. She was disorganized and frequently lost her wallet or keys.
She frequently was late for appointments and lost track of time. She was self-deprecating as well as a negative outlook. an ongoing sadness that was not depression.
Inattentional ADD
People with inattentive ADHD are unable to pay attention to details and making rash mistakes. They have trouble recalling information they've learned and may forget to complete homework assignments or even a project. They often lose wallets, keys, and other things they require to survive. They often miss appointments or are unable to keep the 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 type of ADD slip under the radar since they don't show obvious behavioral issues. This subtype of ADD is more common for girls than boys. Many teachers are unaware of their symptoms because they don't fit the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults with inattention ADHD often have trouble following instructions at home as well as at work and make it a habit to procrastinate or skip tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have difficulty listening to lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by unrelated things like the internet or television. Symptoms of inattentive ADHD can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. A lot of adults are annoyed when they are constantly reminded of their missed deadlines by loved ones or coworkers.
It is crucial to know that inattention ADD can also be caused by stress, mental or physical illnesses. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is necessary an extensive examination by an expert in mental health or health care provider is needed. They will ask for a detailed medical background and a physical exam and discuss your life style to pinpoint any other issues that could be causing your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from Overfocused ADD have difficulty shifting their focus and become hyper-focused on certain activities. They may also be very organized, which could cause confusion for some people and lead to confusion and a misdiagnosis. These individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD medications, which boost serotonin and/or dopamine. However, this treatment can actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated by their inability to divert their thoughts, which causes them to struggle with depression and anxiety. They are also prone to get trapped in negative behaviours and thought patterns that are difficult to break free from without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and alter negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to decrease rumination, and training in skills have produced positive results for people with Overfocused ADD.
When a person has overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which could lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this region of the brain to much, which can exacerbate symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven to be helpful for those suffering from this condition.
adult signs of adhd with Overfocused ADD tend to get "stuck" in negative cycles that can strain relationships and cause stress. Certain symptoms can be eased by creating a schedule, using an electronic planner and joining supportive communities. Couples coaching can be beneficial for ADD, as it helps to define roles and expectations between partners. This can help improve communication and to create a more balanced and healthy life for both individuals. The most effective method of treating ADD/ADHD will always be working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to determine a program that can assist you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Most people with ADD also suffer from anxiety. It could be a few irritating worries or a full-blown anxiety disorder, such as panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. Whatever the case, whether it's an occasional anxious feeling or a longer-lasting, serious anxiety is a significant issue with life and work functioning. Almost 80% of people who suffer from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most frequent disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD, one of the "7 kinds" of ADD is defined by a feeling of anxiety and nervousness, as well inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In this instance it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are either overactive or out-of-balance. This includes the limbic system as well as the prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD have a high sensitivity to external stimuli like light, noise and touch. They are prone to overreact and have a short fuse. They are more prone to repeating negative thoughts and behaviors and are often involved in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive conflict-prone and atypical personality.
Treatment for this type of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine as well as encouraging relaxation. This type of ADD requires that patients have enough sleep and exercise regularly, as well as consume healthy food. They should avoid processed and sugary foods. If they can, they should use the same routine for sleeping and getting up and follow the same routine daily. Additionally, they should try to incorporate physical activities into educational or work-related tasks. If they work at a desk, they should get up and move around every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterized by overactivity in the Cerebral Cortex and also increased activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. The people who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD are likely to exhibit all the classic symptoms of ADHD, including trouble staying focused and impulsive behavior. They might also experience high levels of anxiety, rapid thoughts and anger. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often unresponsive and argumentative.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms are similar. The difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder cycle through periods of depression or mania, while those with Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms in a constant manner.
Ring of Fire ADD can be more difficult to treat when compared to other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to a lack of brain chemicals. Treatment usually aims at correcting this imbalance. The positive side is that by applying the right strategies, people can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and lead a healthy and productive life.
If you're suffering from Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms, it's important to seek assistance from a trained medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been viewed with suspicion by a lot of the medical world however, he does have valid points. By identifying the different types of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you can receive the help you require. Contact a specialist today to receive a valid diagnosis and start on the road to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the type that most people imagine when they hear ADHD. It encompasses all the signs of inattention ADD but also impulsivity and hyperactivity. The people with this type of ADD struggle with organizing tasks, prioritizing their priorities, managing time, and keeping track of their own. They are easily distracted and lack the mental stamina to complete tasks that aren't their preferred ones. They are not usually labeled "hyperactive," yet they struggle to follow instructions and often miss appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, and low levels of dopamine.
People with this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and experience difficulties in dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. They could have a history of family trauma or abuse, or have gone through an emotional divorce. People with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and abnormalities in their temporal lobes which control mood. Treatment for this kind of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants that regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing and addressing all forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the root cause of the patient's symptoms and determines the most appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment to receive individualized ADHD care.