Recognizing ADD Symptoms in Adults
Do you find yourself forgetting the dates or tasks you have to complete at work? You might interrupt people while they are talking or slam into rooms without knocking. These actions may be ADHD symptoms if they cause you to be in conflict with your everyday life.
Adults who suffer from ADHD typically suffer from mental disorders, such as anxiety and mood disorders. The routine questions that are asked during the clinical interview can reveal signs of ADHD.
Symptoms
A person suffering from ADD isn't able to pay attention to the details, arranging tasks, or executing on commitments. They make impulsive mistakes at school or work, is unable to remember important details such as bills and appointments and has trouble staying focused on conversation and leisure activities. A person who is this type is unable to control their emotions and is easily distracted by other people.
To be diagnosed with ADD those over 7 must have been affected by inattentive symptoms for at least six months. Several of the symptoms must be present on two different occasions, and the patient's problems are affecting school, social or work performance. Parents and teachers must provide feedback, as well as medical observation and a thorough history. Some patients have a combination of symptoms in both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive categories. The symptoms of ADD combined aren't always apparent and may be difficult to recognize by family doctors. It is a condition that can be identified by primary care doctors.
Diagnosis
Although ADD is among the most frequent mental health disorders however, it is not always recognized until later in life. Family physicians are an excellent source to diagnose ADD in adults, particularly those who have not been diagnosed or have been discharged.
Diagnosis is based upon the clinical assessment of a patient, often supported by self-rating scales and interviews and observation of the patient in various situations (eg at home, at work, socially), complete medical history, incorporating previous issues and current difficulties and getting feedback from the school or employer. It is essential to rule out other reasons for the symptoms of a person, like sleep disorders and learning disabilities as well as mood disorders.
adhd in adults signs of ADD included only inattentive problems, but recent studies have shown that people with ADD are equally likely to present with hyperactive-impulsive or combined presentations, and they can have both types of symptoms at different times. Inattentive ADD is diagnosed when the doctor is satisfied that there are at least six inattentive criteria within two of the following seven subcategories: difficulty in paying attention or staying focused or in a state of disorganization, failure to follow directions or rules, and easily distracted. Hyperactive-impulsive ADD is diagnosed when the clinician is satisfied there are six or more symptoms in four of the following six categories: fidgeting, excessive talking or interrupting others, being restless, unable to wait for their turn or impulsively leaving their seat.
To be classified as having ADD symptoms must be present in at least two aspects of a persons life for a minimum of six months. In at least half of all people suffering from ADD, the disorder is associated with comorbid psychological or psychiatric problems that include mood disorders (depression, bipolar affective disorder and dysthymia) as well as anxiety disorders, addictions and personality disorders.
The symptoms of ADD can be reversed but the best method to treat it is by applying strategies to help people establish a structure in their lives and alter their behavior. Setting goals, routines for the day and using lists and reminders can be useful. It is crucial to teach people how to control their impulsive behavior and what triggers them. Techniques such as waiting before acting or evaluating a scenario and working out alternatives are beneficial. Sometimes medication is necessary, but it's important to test a medication prior to adding another.
Treatment
Adults with inattention ADD can have difficulty working, at school or in their relationships. They tend to make careless mistakes, overlook important details, and are easily distracted. They are more likely to be suffering from anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. There are many adults who are able to find treatment options that help them live more successful lives with ADD/ADHD.
ADD/ADHD is among the most prevalent mental health disorders, yet it is often not considered in family practices. This is likely due to the fact that family physicians are unfamiliar with the symptom presentation for adults or because those who suffer from ADD/ADHD are often suffering from multiple disorders, including mood disorders (depression, bipolar affective disorder dysthymia) and anxiety, or addiction disorders.
A diagnosis of inattention ADD is based on an evaluation that includes feedback from teachers or other professionals, as well as clinical observation and a detailed history. The symptoms must be problematic in various settings on a continuous basis, and cause significant impairment. Children younger than 17 years old need to have at minimum six symptoms that fall into the inattentive category, while adults require at least 5 of the 11 symptoms to be diagnosed of inattentive ADD.
Management
It is vital that family physicians recognize ADD in adults, as the issues can be grave. Inattentive ADD in adults is more common than hyperactive impulsive ADHD, but family physicians don't know how to recognize it. Many patients are left undiagnosed. The inattentive version of ADD is misdiagnosed as mood disorders (depression or bipolar affective disorders, or substance abuse disorders). Treatment is based on education and support to help patients establish more discipline in their lives, improving self-esteem and social interaction skills and promoting an active lifestyle and healthy diet and, if necessary, medication. Medication is helpful in up to 60 percent of ADD patients. It is not recommended to use in children as it is not safe for children.