Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD is not limited to
children -- 30% to 70% of kids with ADHD continue having symptoms when they
grow up. In addition, people who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more
obvious symptoms in adulthood, causing trouble on the job or in relationships.
Many adults don’t realize they have ADHD, leaving them mystified about why
their goals seem to slip out of reach.
Signs
of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Running Late
ADHD in adults follows a slightly different pattern than in
children. Adults may be chronically late for work or important events. Adults
may realize that their tardiness is undermining their goals, but they just
can't seem to be on time.
Risky Driving
One of the hallmarks of ADHD is difficulty keeping your mind
on the task at hand. That spells trouble for teens and adults when they're behind
the wheel of a vehicle. Studies show that people with ADHD are more likely to
speed, have accidents, and lose their drivers' licenses.
Distraction
Adults with ADHD may have trouble prioritizing, starting,
and finishing tasks. They tend to be disorganized, restless, and easily
distracted. Some people with ADHD have trouble concentrating while reading. The
inability to stay focused and follow through on tasks can derail careers,
ambitions, and relationships.
Outbursts
Adults with ADHD may have problems with self-control. This
can lead to:
- · Difficulty controlling anger
- · Impulsive behaviors
- · Blurting out rude or insulting thoughts
Hyperfocus
Some adults with ADHD can focus intently on things they
enjoy or find interesting -- the ability to hyperfocus. But they struggle to
pay attention to tasks that bore them. The trouble is that many tasks necessary
for success in everyday life are dull, from making a grocery list to filing
documents at work. People with ADHD tend to put off boring tasks in favor of
more enjoyable activities.
Multitasking
It may seem like everyone has ADHD these days, as we respond
to text messages, email, calls, and fast-paced work environments. While all of
this can be distracting, most people manage to focus on important
responsibilities. In people with ADHD, distractions interfere with the
completion of vital tasks at home and at work.
Something Else?
If you are often restless and have trouble concentrating,
don't jump to the conclusion that you have ADHD. These symptoms are also common
in other conditions. Poor concentration is a classic sign of depression.
Restlessness or anxiety could indicate an overactive thyroid or anxiety
disorder. Your health care provider will investigate whether these conditions
could be causing your symptoms instead of -- or in addition to -- ADHD.
What Causes ADHD?
In people with ADHD, brain chemicals called
neurotransmitters are less active in areas of the brain that control attention.
Researchers don't know exactly what causes this chemical imbalance, but they
think genes may play a role, because ADHD often runs in families. Studies have
also linked ADHD to prenatal exposure to cigarettes and alcohol.
An Evolutionary Advantage
One genetic variation that causes ADHD-like traits is more
common in the world's nomadic peoples. Researchers think that traits such as
impulsive behavior, novelty-seeking, and unpredictability might help nomads
track down food and other resources. So the same qualities that make it
challenging to excel at a desk job may have been an advantage to nomadic
ancestors.
Diagnosing ADHD in Adults
Many adults don’t learn that they have ADHD until they get
help for another problem, such as anxiety or depression. Discussing poor
habits, troubles at work, or marital conflicts often reveals that ADHD is at
fault. To confirm the diagnosis, the disorder must have been present during
childhood, even if it was never diagnosed. Old report cards or talking with
relatives can document childhood problems, such as poor focus and
hyperactivity.
Testing for ADHD
During an evaluation for ADHD, some mental health
professionals use neuropsychological tests. These can include timed,
computer-based tests that measure attention and problem-solving skills.
Neuropsychological testing is not needed to make a diagnosis, but it can shed
light on how ADHD affects a person's daily life. It can also uncover coexisting
conditions, such as learning disabilities.
Complications of Adult ADHD
Coping with the symptoms of adult ADHD can be frustrating in
itself. At the same time, many adults with ADHD struggle with depression,
anxiety, or obsessive compulsive disorder. They’re also more likely to smoke or
abuse drugs. People with ADHD can limit these problems by seeking proper
treatment.
Medications for ADHD
The most common medicines for ADHD are stimulants. It may
seem ironic that people who are restless or hyperactive get help from
stimulants. These drugs may sharpen concentration and curb distractibility by
fine-tuning brain circuits that affect attention. If stimulants don't help
enough, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant to stabilize mood or a selective
norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, such as atomoxetine, which can help control
impulsive behaviors.
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