ADD and ADHD refer to one disorder termed attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in the American Psychological Association's "Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-IV-TR). According to the APA, between 1.6 and 2 million people have been diagnosed with ADHD. To be correctly diagnosed with the disorder, a patient must have exhibited at least six of nine listed symptoms for at least six months. These symptoms include degrees of inattentiveness, impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are numerous different causes believed to be associated with adult ADHD, but none have been proven as of 2010.
Imbalance of Neurotransmitters
According to TheHealthCenter website, ADHD is thought to be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters facilitate communication between brain cells, or neurons.There are numerous neurotransmitters, some of which are important in forming thoughts, storing information, recalling that information and turning thoughts into actions. Some persons diagnosed with ADHD have been found to have extremely low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Acetylcholine, another neurotransmitter found to be deficient in many ADHD patients, helps the body control key cognitive functions, including attention, logic, judgment, awareness and perception, according to TheHealthCenter.
Genetics
ADHD has a strong genetic basis in the majority of cases, according to Psych Central. Although there is no confirmation that genetic makeup alone can cause a child to have ADHD, research is currently being conducted throughout the world to try to confirm or disprove this theory. Though the disease is usually diagnosed in children, sometimes, the symptoms are not recognized in childhood and the person with ADHD learns to compensate for his symptoms when young. However, as an adult, when problems and responsibilities increase, this person may find it impossible to manage his symptoms. He may seek help, and be diagnosed with ADHD for the first time in adulthood.
Diet
Theories exist that relate the consumption of high sugar foods and foods with high fructose corn syrup to hyperactivity and ADHD. Though this has never been proven, there indeed is research that suggests that this can be true, according to TheHealthCenter.info. Soft drinks, sugary foods and simply an increased intake of sugar can sometimes bring on symptoms of ADHD. Research performed by Dr. Ben Feingold shows that eating more vegetables, fruits and complex carbohydrates can help reduce hyperactivity symptoms.
