Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was struggling to keep up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was disorganized, and often lost her keys or wallet.
She frequently missed appointments and was unable to keep the track of time. She was self-deprecating, a negative outlook and a chronic sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD have difficulty paying attention to the details and making careless mistakes. They may have trouble remembering what they've heard, or forget to finish a task or homework assignment. They often misplace keys, wallets, and other things they require to live with. They are usually late for appointments or have trouble keeping track of messages and bills.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they move around in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those with the inattentive kind of ADD do not get noticed since they don't show obvious behavior issues. Children who suffer from this subtype of ADD tend to be females than males, and many teachers don't recognize their signs because they don't fit the stereotype of being a "bad child."
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD are unable to follow instructions, both at home and at work. They tend to delay tasks and avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They may also have difficulty with lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by unrelated media such as the internet or television. Inattention ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as lazyness or lack of motivation. Many adults are frustrated when loved ones or colleagues keep reminding them of commitments they have not fulfilled.
It is important to recognize that inattentive ADD symptoms may also be caused by other factors, including stress, other mental health issues or physical illnesses. A thorough examination by a health care provider or mental health professional is required to confirm the existence of symptoms and to determine whether treatment is necessary. They will ask for a detailed medical background and a physical exam and talk about your lifestyle to identify any other issues which may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are incapable of shifting their focus, and instead are focused on specific tasks. They can also be extremely organized, which may cause confusion to some people and result in an incorrect diagnosis. Since they lack dopamine and serotonin, these individuals are often treated with conventional ADHD medications that increase dopamine and serotonin. However, this treatment may actually cause their ADD symptoms worse.
People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, which causes them to suffer from depression and anxiety. They also are prone to becoming trapped in negative behaviours and patterns of thought that can be difficult to break free from without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and change negative patterns, mindfulness techniques to decrease rumination, and training in skills have produced positive results for adults suffering from Overfocused ADD.
When a person is suffering from hyperfocus ADD, the anterior cingulate gyrus of their brain is overactive. This can cause hyperfocus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this part of the brain to a great extent, which can exacerbate symptoms and cause irritability. A healthy diet and non-medication treatments have been shown to be beneficial for these people.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are more likely to get "stuck" in negative cycles, which can cause tension in relationships and increase stress. Certain symptoms can be eased by creating a plan or using an electronic planner and joining supportive communities. Couples coaching can be beneficial for those suffering from ADD as it assists to define roles and expectations between partners. This will improve communication and help develop a more balanced life for both individuals. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to determine the best program that will help manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients are often also suffering from anxiety. It could be a recurring, troublesome bouts of worry or more serious anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or specific phobias. It isn't a matter of whether it's a mild anxiety or chronic severe anxiety. It can have a negative impact on your work and life. About 80% of people suffering from ADHD also have another diagnosis. Anxiety is the most frequent.
Anxious ADD, one of the "7 types" of ADD is associated with a feeling anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysfunctional brain. In the case of this kind the brain mapping qEEG can show that certain areas of the brain are hyperactive or are out of balance. These include the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
People with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli such as noise, light and touch. They tend to overreact and have short fuses. They are susceptible to repetitive negative thoughts and actions, and often engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to be impulsive, conflict-prone and atypical personality.
Treatment for this kind of ADD involves the balance of GABA and dopamine, while also encouraging relaxation. People with this type of ADD need to get enough rest, exercise and eat healthfully. They should avoid processed foods and sugar. If possible, they should follow the same routine every day for waking up and going to sleep. They should also strive to incorporate physical activity in their professional or educational tasks. For example for those who have an office job, they should stand up or walk around at least once an hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This type of ADD is defined by excessive activity in the Cerebral Cortex as well as an increase in activity in the left and right Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the typical symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and having impulsive behavior. They might also exhibit high levels of anxiety as well as rapid thoughts. They can become overwhelmed by the stimulation of their surroundings, and are often highly inflexible and irritable.
Ring of Fire ADD is often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are very similar. But the difference is that people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder can experience periods of mania and depression and those who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD typically have symptoms that occur regularly.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals. sign of adhd in adults is usually aimed towards resolving this imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, individuals can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and live a healthy and balanced life.
If you are experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. While Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical field However, he has good points. 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 an accurate diagnosis and get on the road to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is the kind that most people imagine when they hear the term ADHD. It has all the symptoms of inattentive ADD, but also includes hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. The people with this type of ADD struggle with organizing, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and keeping track of their own. They are easily distracted and do not have the mental strength to finish tasks that aren't their preferred ones. They are not usually labeled "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and often miss appointments. They are low in dopamine levels and a reduced flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
People with this type of ADD have trouble with their emotions and exhibit difficulty dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse in the family or experienced difficult separation. Individuals with limbic ADD exhibit decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, and abnormalities in their temporal lobes that control mood. Treatment for this form of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing, treating and addressing all forms of adult ADD. His unique testing process identifies the causes of a patient's issues and determines the most appropriate treatment. Call Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.