Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may be suffering from ADD (predominantly inattention type). She was having trouble keeping up with her schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and frequently lost her wallet or keys.
She often missed appointments and lost the track of time. She had low self-esteem as well as a negative outlook. a chronic sadness that was not depression.
Inattentional ADD
People who have inattention ADHD are prone to making mistakes that aren't paying attention to the finer details. They have trouble recalling information they've learned and might forget to finish homework assignments or a work project. They often lose wallets, keys, and other items they need to survive. They are usually late for appointments or have difficulty keeping the track of their bills and messages.
While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they wiggle in their seats, fidget and talk constantly, children with the inattentive kind of ADD are often overlooked since they don't show obvious behavioral issues. Children who have this type of ADD are more likely to be females than males and a lot of teachers don't acknowledge their symptoms since they don't conform to the stereotype of the "bad kid."
Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD struggle to follow directions, both at home and at the workplace. They tend to put off tasks and avoid tasks that require constant mental effort. They might also struggle to follow conversations or lectures and are easily distracted by other distractions, such as unrelated thoughts or the internet or television. The signs of inattention ADHD can be misinterpreted as lazyness or apathy. Many adults are frustrated when they are constantly reminded of missed deadlines by their family or friends.
It is important to recognize that inattentive ADD symptoms can also be caused by other causes such as stress, mental health issues, or physical ailments. To confirm the symptoms and determine if treatment is required an extensive assessment by an expert in mental health or health professional is required. They will ask for a detailed medical background and conduct a physical examination and talk about your lifestyle to determine any other issues which may contribute to your symptoms.
Overfocused ADD
Those with people with ADD are not able to shift their focus and instead are focused on specific activities. They might also be highly organized, which may cause confusion for some people and lead to confusion and a misdiagnosis. These individuals are often treated by conventional ADHD medication, which increases serotonin and/or dopamine. However, this treatment can actually make their ADD symptoms worse.
They may feel like they are suffocating because they are unable to divert their minds, leading to depression and anxiety. They are also prone to become stuck in negative behaviors and patterns of thought which are difficult to break out of without intervention. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that identifies and change negative patterns, mindfulness exercises to decrease rumination, and skill training have shown positive results for adults with Overfocused ADD.
When someone suffers from Overfocused ADD, their brain's anterior cingulate gland is hyperactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. Stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to much and can cause more symptoms and irritability. A healthy diet and non-medicated therapies are proven to be helpful for these individuals.
People with Overfocused ADD have a tendency to become "stuck" in negative cycles, which can strain relationships and increase stress. Certain symptoms can be eased by creating a plan, 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 can help improve communication and allow both parties to lead a more balanced lifestyle. As always, the most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD is to work with a Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor to determine the best program that can help you manage and minimize the symptoms.
Anxious ADD
ADD patients are often also suffering from anxiety. It could be a few annoying anxieties or a complete anxiety disorder such as social anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Regardless of whether it's just an occasional feeling of anxiety or a more chronic, serious anxiety that can be a major issue with the way you live and work. Around 80% of those who suffer from ADHD also have a different diagnosis. Anxiety is the most frequent.
Anxious ADD is one of the theorized "7 types of ADD." This type is distinguished by a severe anxiety and a feeling of nervousness as well as inattention. It is caused by dysregulated brain. In the case of this type the brain mapping of qEEG shows that certain regions of the brain are overactive or unbalanced. These include the limbic system and prefrontal cortex.
Those with this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli, such as noise, light and touch. They are prone to overreact and have a short fuse. They are susceptible to repetitive negative thoughts and behavior and are often involved in self-sabotage. They are more likely to be impulsive and argumentative and possess an antagonistic personality.
The treatment for this type is to balance GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. Patients suffering from this kind of ADD need to get enough rest, exercise and eat healthfully. They should also stay away from sugar and processed foods. If they can, they should use the same routine for sleeping and getting up and stick to it every day. They should also try to incorporate physical exercise in their professional or educational activities. If they work at an office then they must get up and move around every hour.
adhd symptoms for women of Fire ADD
This kind of ADD is described as having an overactive Cerebral cortex and more activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes and the left-right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD will likely experience all of the classic ADHD symptoms, including difficulty staying focused and impulsive behavior. They may also show high levels of anxiety, rapid thinking and irritability. They can become overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, and are typically rigid and argumentative.
Ring of Fire ADD is often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder because the symptoms are remarkably similar. The difference is that people with Bipolar Disorder have periods of mania or depression, while those suffering from Ring of Fire ADD experience their symptoms consistently.
Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are usually related to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment focuses on correcting that imbalance. By implementing expert strategies, individuals can 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. Dr. Daniel Amen has some good points even though his work is viewed with suspicion in the medical community. By recognizing the different kinds of ADHD and knowing what to look for, you will be able to receive the help you require. Consult a doctor for a valid diagnose and start on the road to a healthy and happy life.
Classic ADD
Classic ADD is what the majority of people think of when they hear the word ADHD. It encompasses all the signs of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with this type of ADD struggle with organizing, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and focusing on themselves. 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 often miss appointments. They have a low level of dopamine and reduced blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.
This form of ADD is characterized by emotional problems and difficulty in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. They might have suffered trauma or abuse in the family or have been through difficult separation. Individuals with limbic ADD have reduced activity in their prefrontal cortex as well as irregularities in the temporal lobes which regulate mood. Treatment for this kind of ADD revolves around supplements and antidepressants to regulate neuronal activity.
Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies the causes of each patient's symptoms and determines the best treatment. Call Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.