Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old woman who was married came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattention type). She was having trouble keeping up with her school work and household chores. She was disorganized, and often lost her wallet or keys.
She was often prone to losing the track of time. She was self-deprecating, a negative outlook and an ongoing sadness that was not depression.
Inattentional ADD
People with inattentive ADHD tend to make mistakes that aren't paying attention to the small details. They have trouble remembering the information they've heard, and might forget to finish homework assignments or work project. They often lose keys, wallets, and other things they require to survive. This is why they are often late for appointments or struggle to keep track of their bills and messages.
While children who suffer from hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they move around in their seats, fidget and talk nonstop, those who have the inattentive form of ADD are often overlooked because they don't exhibit obvious behavioral issues. Children who have this type of ADD tend to be females than males and a lot of teachers don't acknowledge their symptoms because they don't fit into the stereotype of the "bad kid."
Adults with inattentive ADHD have difficulty following instructions at home and at work. They tend to delay tasks and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also have difficulty listening to lectures or conversations and can easily be distracted by irrelevant media such as the television or the internet. Signs of inattention ADHD could be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are annoyed when they are constantly reminded of their missed deadlines by family members or colleagues.
It's important to note that inattention ADD symptoms can also be caused by other causes such as stress, other mental health issues, or physical ailments. A comprehensive evaluation by a health care professional or mental health professional is needed to determine the presence of symptoms and determine if treatment is needed. They will request an extensive medical history and a physical exam and discuss your lifestyle in order to pinpoint any other issues which may be causing your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
People with Overfocused ADD are unable to shift their focus and instead are focused on specific activities. They may also be extremely organized, which may confuse certain people and cause confusion and misdiagnosis. Because they tend to lack serotonin and dopamine, these individuals are often treated with standard ADHD drugs that boost serotonin and dopamine. However, this treatment may actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
They may feel trapped due to their inability to redirect their thoughts, which leads them to suffer from depression and anxiety. They also are prone to get stuck in negative behavior and patterns of thought that are difficult to break out of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and alter negative patterns, mindfulness techniques to reduce rumination, and training in skills have produced positive results for people with Overfocused ADD.
When a person has Overfocused ADD the brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which could result in hyper-focus and a mood swing. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this part of the brain to much and can cause more symptoms and cause irritability. This is why a healthy diet and other non-medicated treatments have proven beneficial for these people.
People suffering from Overfocused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can create stress and strain relationships. Some of their symptoms can be eased by creating a schedule by using an electronic planner, and joining supportive communities. Couples coaching can be beneficial for those suffering from ADD as it can help to clarify roles and expectations between partners. what are the symptoms of adhd in adults will improve communication and help develop a more balanced life for both individuals. The most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is to work with a Naturopathic or Medical Doctor to identify the best program that will help reduce and manage the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
Often people who have ADD also suffer from anxiety. It could be a few irritating anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder, such as social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Regardless of whether it's just an occasional anxious feeling or a more chronic anxiety is a significant issue with work and life. Nearly 80% of those who suffer from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis, and anxiety is the most frequent disorder that is a comorbidity.
Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types of ADD." This type is characterized by a heightened feeling of nervousness and anxiety as well as inattention. It is caused by dysregulated brain. In this instance the qEEG map shows that certain brain regions are either overactive or out of balance. This includes the prefrontal cortex and limbic system.
The people with this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like light, noise and touch. They tend to react too quickly and have short fuses. They are prone negative thoughts or actions and are often self-defeating. 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 encouraging relaxation. People suffering from this type of ADD must get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eat a balanced diet. They should also stay away from processed and sugary foods. If they can they should follow the same routine for sleeping and getting up and stick to the same routine daily. They should also try to incorporate physical exercise into their professional or academic activities. If they are at an office and are not able to be active and up and about every hour.
Ring of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is known as having an overactive Cerebral cortex, as well as more activity in the left and rights Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. The people with Ring of Fire ADD are likely to exhibit all the classic symptoms of ADHD and have trouble staying focused and impulsive behaviour. They might also exhibit high levels of anxiety and erratic thoughts. They can be overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often unresponsive and argumentative.
Ring of Fire ADD is often mistakenly referred to as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are similar. However, the difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder are prone to experiencing periods of mania and depression; 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 forms of ADHD. The symptoms are often related to a lack of brain chemical. Treatment is usually aimed at correcting this imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, people 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. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's work has been met with skepticism by a lot of the medical field however, he does have legitimate points. You can receive the assistance you require by identifying the various types of ADHD. Get in touch with a specialist today to get a reliable diagnosis and begin on the right path to a happy and healthy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what most people think about when they hear the word ADHD. It is characterized by all the signs of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. People with this type of ADD are unable to organize, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and monitoring themselves. They are easily distracted and lack the mental stamina to complete tasks they do not enjoy. They are not usually classified as "hyperactive," but they have trouble following instructions and are often late for appointments. They have low dopamine and reduced blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.
People suffering from this type of ADD are troubled by their emotions and experience difficulties in dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. They may have experienced trauma or abuse in their family or experienced an emotional separation. People with limbic ADD are less active in their prefrontal cortex as well as disturbances in the temporal lobes which regulate mood. This type of ADD is treated with antidepressants and other supplements to regulate neuronal function.
Dr. Zlatin ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types adult ADD. His unique test method identifies and determines the correct treatment for each patient's needs. Contact Psychiatry NYC today to schedule an appointment for individualized ADHD treatment.