Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman visited Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentional type). She was having trouble keeping up with her school work and household chores. She was unorganized, and often lost her keys or wallet.
She was often prone to losing track of time. She had a low self-esteem, a negative outlook and an ongoing sadness that was not depression.
Inattentive ADD
People who have inattention ADHD tend to make mistakes without paying attention to the finer details. They may struggle to remember what they've heard, or forget to finish a project or homework assignment. They often misplace keys, wallets, and other objects they need to live. They are usually late for appointments or have difficulty keeping up with messages and bills.
Children who have inattention ADD are not as evident because they don't exhibit any obvious behavioral issues. Children with this subtype of ADD are more likely to be females than boys and teachers are often unable to recognize their signs because they don't fit into the stereotype of a "bad child."
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD struggle to follow directions, both at home and at the workplace. They also tend to procrastinate and avoid tasks that require a sustained mental effort. They may also have difficulty listening to lectures or conversations and are easily distracted by unrelated things like the television or the internet. Inattentive ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are annoyed when family members or colleagues continually remind them of commitments they have not fulfilled.
It's important that you understand that inattention ADD can be caused by stress, other mental issues, or physical ailments. A thorough evaluation by a health care provider or mental health professional is needed to confirm the presence of symptoms and to determine whether treatment is necessary. They will ask for a detailed medical background and conduct a physical examination and discuss your life style to identify any other issues which may be causing your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those with People with ADD are not able to shift their focus and instead, they become focused on specific tasks. They may also be very organized, which could confuse some people and cause a misdiagnosis. Since they lack serotonin and dopamine These individuals are typically treated with conventional ADHD medication that increases dopamine and serotonin. However, this treatment may actually cause ADD symptoms worse.
They can feel suffocated because they are unable to control their minds, which leads to depression and anxiety. They are also susceptible to becoming stuck in negative behaviors and thought patterns that can be difficult to break free from without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and alter negative patterns, mindfulness practices to reduce rumination, and training in skills have produced positive results for adults suffering from over-focused ADD.
When someone suffers from hyperfocus ADD the anterior cingulate gyrus of the brain is hyperactive. This can lead to hyperfocus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this part of the brain to a great extent and can cause more symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven to be beneficial for these people.
People with Overfocused ADD have a tendency to become "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and increase stress. Some of their symptoms can be cured by creating a plan by using an electronic planner and joining supportive communities. Couples coaching can be beneficial for those suffering from ADD, as it helps to define roles and expectations between partners. This will improve communication and help to create a more balanced and healthy life for both people. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with an Occupational or Medical Doctor to determine the best program to manage and reduce the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients are often also suffering from anxiety. It could be a few irritating anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder, such as panic disorder or social anxiety disorder. Regardless of whether it's just an occasional anxiety attack or a longer-lasting anxiety is a significant issue with work and life. Around adhd signs in adults of those with ADHD also have another diagnosis. Anxiety is the most frequent.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 kinds of ADD." This kind is characterized by a strong anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by a dysregulated brain. In this instance, qEEG mapping shows that certain brain regions are either overactive or out of balance. This includes the prefrontal cortex as well as the limbic system.
People with this type of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli, such as light, noise and the touch. They are more prone to reacting too quickly and are prone to a quick temper. adhd in adults signs are more prone to repeating negative thoughts and behaviors, and often engage in self-sabotage. They are more likely to be impulsive, argumentative and possess an antagonistic personality.
The treatment for this kind involves balancing GABA with dopamine, and promoting relaxation. Patients suffering from this kind of ADD need to get enough rest, exercise and eat healthfully. They should also avoid processed foods and sugar. If they can they should follow the same routine for sleeping and waking up and follow it every day. It is also recommended to integrate physical activity into their professional or academic activities. For example for those who have a desk job, they should stand up or walk around at least once per hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is characterised by an overactive in the Cerebral Cortex and also increased activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to experience all of the typical symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and impulsive behaviour. They might also experience high levels of anxiety, erratic thoughts and irritability. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often inflexible and argumentative.
Ring of Fire ADD is often mistakenly referred to as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are remarkably similar. But the difference is that those who have Bipolar Disorder will cycle through periods of depression and mania; those with Ring of Fire ADD typically have symptoms that occur on a consistent basis.
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 and treatment concentrates on repairing that imbalance. Through the use of effective strategies, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD and live a healthy and balanced life.
If you're dealing with Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms It is essential to seek out help from a medical professional who is trained. Dr. Daniel Amen has some good points even though his work is often viewed with skepticism in the medical field. By recognizing the various types of ADHD and understanding what to look for, you can get the help you need. Contact a specialist today to receive a valid diagnosis and get on the path to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what people think about when they hear ADHD. It exhibits all the signs of inattention ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. Those with this form of ADD have difficulty 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 typically categorized as "hyperactive," yet they struggle to follow instructions and are often late for appointments. They have reduced blood flow to the prefrontal cortex as well as low dopamine levels.
People with this type of ADD struggle with their emotions and experience difficulties in dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. They may have a family history of trauma or abuse, or have gone through an emotional divorce. Individuals with limbic ADD are less active in their prefrontal cortex as well as irregularities in the temporal lobes, which regulate moods. Treatment for this type of ADD is based on supplements and antidepressants to regulate the neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing, treating and addressing all forms of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies and determines the appropriate treatment for each patient's needs. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today for personalized ADHD treatment.