Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattention type). She was having trouble staying on top of household chores and schoolwork. She was unorganized and often lost her keys or wallet.
She frequently forgot appointments and lost the track of time. She had a low self-esteem and a negative outlook. She also suffered from a chronic sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People with inattention ADHD are unable to pay attention to details and making rash mistakes. They have a difficult time remembering information they've heard and may forget to complete homework assignments or a work project. They often lose keys, wallets, and other things they require to survive. This is why they are often late for appointments or have difficulty keeping track of their bills and messages.
While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they wiggle in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those with the inattentive type of ADD do not get noticed because they don't exhibit obvious behavior issues. This type of ADD is more prevalent for girls than boys. Many teachers are unaware of their symptoms, since they don't conform to the stereotype of a "bad kid'.
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD frequently have difficulty following directions at home and at work and tend to procrastinate or skip tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also have difficulty follow conversations or lectures and can be easily distracted by extraneous stimuli such as thoughts that are not related or the internet or television. Inattentive ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are upset when family members or colleagues continually remind them of commitments they have not fulfilled.
It is important to recognize that inattention ADD symptoms could be caused by other factors such as stress, mental health issues, or physical illnesses. A thorough evaluation by a medical professional or mental health professional is necessary to confirm the presence of symptoms and to determine if treatment is required. They will collect a complete medical history, perform a physical exam and discuss your life style to help determine any other issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People suffering from Overfocused ADD are incapable of shifting their focus, and instead are focused on specific tasks. They may also be extremely organized, which may cause confusion to some people and lead to confusion and misdiagnosis. Because they are lacking dopamine and serotonin These individuals are typically treated with the standard ADHD medications that increase dopamine and serotonin. However, this treatment may actually cause ADD symptoms worse.
They may feel overwhelmed because they are unable to control their minds, which leads to anxiety and depression. They also are prone to becoming stuck in negative behaviors and thought patterns which are difficult to break free from without intervention. Adults with overfocused ADD have seen positive results from cognitive-behavioral therapy to change negative thinking patterns, mindfulness practices that help reduce rumination, and the development of skills.
If someone is diagnosed with Overfocused ADD their brain's anterior cingulate gyrus is overactive, which can cause hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to an extent and can cause more symptoms and cause irritability. This is the reason why a healthy diet and other non-medical treatments have proven to be beneficial for these individuals.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD have a tendency to get "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and increase stress. Setting up a routine or using a planner that is digital and joining in supportive communities can help alleviate some of their symptoms. Couples coaching for ADD can also be very 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 to work with Medical or Naturopathic Doctors to discover a treatment plan that will assist you in managing and reducing the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Most people with ADD also have anxiety. It could be a few annoying concerns or a more severe anxiety disorder like social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. It doesn't matter if it's an occasional anxiety attack or a more chronic anxiety that is serious that can be a major issue with work and life. About adult adhd symptoms of people suffering from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequently-cited co-occurring diagnosis.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 types of ADD." This type is characterized by a severe anxiety and nervousness and inattention. It is caused by a dysfunctional brain. In the situation of this type the brain mapping of qEEG shows that certain regions of the brain are hyperactive or are out of balance. These include the limbic and prefrontal cortex. system.
Individuals with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli, such as light, noise and touch. They are susceptible to overreacting and are prone to a quick temper. They are prone negative thoughts or behavior and frequently engage in self-sabotage. signs and symptoms of adhd in adults are also more likely to have an impulsive, argumentative and oppositional personality.
The treatment for this type involves balancing GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. Patients suffering from this kind of ADD must get enough sleep, exercise and eat healthfully. They should also stay away from sugar and processed foods. If possible, they must keep the same routine throughout the day for waking up and sleeping. Additionally, they should try to include physical activities in their educational or work-related tasks. If they work at a desk and are not able to get up and move around every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This theoretical type of ADD is characterised by an overactive 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. The people who suffer from Ring of Fire ADD are likely to suffer from all the classic symptoms of ADHD, including trouble staying focused and impulsive behavior. They may also display high levels of anxiety and erratic thoughts. They may be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often rigid and irritable.
People with Ring of Fire ADD are often misdiagnosed as having Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms are similar. The distinction is that people suffering from Bipolar Disorder have periods of mania or depression, while those with Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms in a constant manner.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other types of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to an imbalance of brain chemical. Treatment usually aims at correcting this imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, individuals can learn to manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
If you're experiencing signs of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a qualified doctor. While Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been met with skepticism by a large portion of the medical world however, he does have good points. You can receive the assistance that you need by identifying the various types of ADHD. Contact a specialist today to get a reliable diagnosis and start on the path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what the majority of people think of when they hear the word ADHD. It has all the symptoms of inattention ADD however it also has hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with this type of ADD struggle with organization, planning prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and lack the mental stamina to complete non-preferred tasks. They aren't usually referred to as "hyperactive," yet they have difficulty following instructions and frequently miss appointments. adult adhd symptoms are low in dopamine levels as well as a decreased flow of blood in the prefrontal cortex.
This type of ADD is marked by emotional issues and difficulty in dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They could have a history of familial trauma or abuse or have been through a difficult divorce. Individuals with limbic ADD are less active in their prefrontal cortex, as well as abnormalities in the temporal lobes, which regulate mood. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants and other supplements to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of adult ADD. His unique testing method helps identify the root cause of the patient's symptoms and determines the appropriate treatment. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment to receive individualized ADHD treatment.