Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a collection of symptoms that center around hyperactivity, such as difficulty paying attention and lack of behavior control. ADHD is a childhood condition that affects both males and females and may continue on through adulthood. There are three types of ADHD: predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive and a combination of these two types. The difference is in the predominance of certain symptoms. Most children have combination ADHD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Causes
The cause of ADHD symptoms is unclear, but the condition is thought to result from a combination of factors and situations. There is a genetic link, and any of several environmental factors may be involved. Exposure to toxins such as lead and cigarette smoking or alcohol use during pregnancy may contribute to ADHD in children. Low birth weight and premature delivery are also possible causes. In very few cases, a direct brain injury may lead to symptoms of ADHD.
Hyperactivity
Symptoms of hyperactivity include fidgeting, nonstop talking, difficulty sitting still at appropriate times at home and at school (or at work, in the case of adults with ADHD), constant movement and difficulty playing or working quietly. Although this is a very common symptom, some people with ADHD are not hyperactive.
Impulsiveness
Symptoms of impulsive ADHD include impatience, lack of emotional restraint, inappropriate language, interrupting other people's conversations and activities, difficulty waiting in line or for a turn at games and difficulty controlling impulsive behaviors.
Inattention
Symptoms of inattention include distraction, forgetfulness, difficulty focusing on one thing at a time or learning something new, appearing not to listen, daydreaming, confusion and difficulty following directions. Children and adults with ADHD may have difficulty planning, organizing and managing their time.
Diagnosis
Generally, a child must display six or more symptoms of ADHD for at least 6 months before a professional diagnosis is made. ADHD symptoms can mimic symptoms of other problems such as learning disabilities, depression and anxiety. Sometimes, these conditions accompany ADHD, but they must be ruled out as separate conditions before a diagnosis of ADHD is made.
Although they often go undiagnosed, up to 4 percent of all adults have ADHD, according to the National Resource Center on ADHD. The symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and inattentiveness are the same as for children, and to diagnose ADHD in an adult, the doctor will determine not only which symptoms are currently present but which have existed since childhood. Regardless of symptoms, an adult is given a diagnosis of ADHD only if the condition has had devastating effects on at least two major areas of his life, such as marriage or employment.
Treatment
Stimulants, such as amphetamines and similar drugs, are often used to treat symptoms in both adults and children, because they can have a calming effect on people with ADHD.
Behavioral therapy and other forms of psychotherapy can help children and adults with ADHD change their behavior, improve their emotional outlook and better organize themselves to get their work done. Parents and other family members may also require and benefit from therapy that will help them better understand the condition and learn how to encourage positive behavior.
