Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder or condition that affects the proper growth and development of the brain. ADHD symptoms usually appear in childhood and can persist into adulthood. But these symptoms can change as the child grows.
ADHD symptoms fall into three main categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Children with ADHD may have only one category of symptoms. However, some people have symptoms that cover more than one category. ADHD symptom categories help establish the three main types of ADHD. The type of ADHD you or your child has depends on which symptoms are more dominant (stronger). These types include:
- Mostly inattentive ADHD
- Mainly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD
- Complex ADHD
ADHD symptoms affect the way a person thinks, acts and expresses their emotions. Because of this, ADHD can affect many areas of a person's life, including their performance at school or work, how they manage relationships, and their ability to complete daily tasks. It's normal for people to occasionally have moments of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
However, in the case of ADHD, these symptoms last longer than 6 months. If you are concerned that you or your child may be experiencing symptoms of ADHD, knowing the basic symptoms of the condition can help you consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and support.
Typical Symptoms
Despite the fact that ADHD comes in three main forms, all three have some similar symptoms. Young toddlers typically exhibit one or more of the following symptoms:
- Having trouble hearing or adhering to instructions
- Fidgeting or being restless with their hands and feet
- Inability to focus on specifics
- Being unable to complete assignments, tasks, or homework
ADHD Symptoms That Are Mostly Inattentive
Individuals with ADHD who are mostly inattentive may frequently struggle to maintain attention, follow instructions, and appear to be daydreaming or off-task. It's crucial to recognize that being unfocused is not a sign of disrespect or ignorance on the part of you or your child. Instead, these symptoms are a result of the underlying illness.
The symptoms of inattentive-type ADHD must persist for at least six months in order to be diagnosed. Among the typical indications and symptoms of this kind of ADHD include, but are not restricted to:
- Having a short attention span
- Misplacing or losing items
- Inadequate focus or attention to detail
- Unable to finish jobs and assignments
Inattentional symptoms usually start to show up in children between the ages of eight and nine. These symptoms may appear in younger children when they are at home. However, given the atmosphere of school, including having to pay attention in class and finish homework assignments, inattention may become more apparent while the child is there. These symptoms are often seen by many individuals with this kind of ADHD during their adolescent and early adult years.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD Symptoms
Impulsive and hyperactive habits nearly usually coexist in younger children. Having difficulties staying still, making snap judgments, or acting without thinking through the implications are all signs of predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.
One or more of the following symptoms may also be present in you or your kid if you have hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD:
- Excessive squirming when seated
- Having trouble sharing the load with others
- Exaggerating in a classroom
- Obstructing or interfering with discussions or actions
- Responding to inquiries before they are completely posed
Similar to inattentive-type ADHD, a proper diagnosis cannot be made until symptoms have been present for at least six months, according to medical professionals.
Around age four, hyperactivity and impulsivity usually start to show symptoms. While impulsivity peaks at the age of seven or eight, these symptoms might persist for the whole of an individual's life. However, in teenagers, the signs of hyperactivity start to fade.
The signs of mixed ADHD
When someone is diagnosed with mixed ADHD, they exhibit symptoms of both hyperactivity-impulsivity ADHD and inattentive ADHD. Individuals with mixed ADHD often have an equal number of symptoms from each category.
People with mixed ADHD may experience symptoms unique to both forms of ADHD in addition to difficulties establishing friends and sustaining meaningful relationships, as well as difficulties realizing their full potential at work or school.
It takes at least six months for symptoms of both forms of ADHD to co-occur to be properly diagnosed.
Symptoms in adults
Symptoms first appear in childhood and adolescence, but ADHD can also appear in adults as they move from adolescence to early and middle adulthood. Some research suggests that ADHD symptoms may appear in adulthood, but more research is needed to understand why this happens. Adults experience the same three types of ADHD as children, but the symptoms of each type can appear differently at different ages.
For example, adults with undiagnosed ADHD may have difficulty holding down a full-time job because they have trouble getting up in the morning or getting to work on time. People with hyperactivity may attempt multiple tasks at once, which can often lead to failure. People with inattentive ADHD may forget to pay bills or lose important documents and items. As with children and adolescents, ADHD symptoms can interfere with interpersonal relationships, work life, and personal well-being.
These symptoms may worsen with age, possibly due to the increasing demands of daily tasks and adult life.
Variations in Symptoms Between Men and Women
Compared to girls, guys are diagnosed with ADHD more frequently. This happens as a result of the past focus of ADHD research on males. Young females exhibit indicators of passivity, whereas boys often exhibit hyperactive characteristics.
At the moment, guys are diagnosed with ADHD significantly more frequently than girls. Note that this does not imply that guys are more prone to ADHD. Rather, further study is required to comprehend the ways in which young girls and women may exhibit distinct symptoms of ADHD.
When to Consult a Medical Professional
It's common to occasionally exhibit impulsivity, hyperactivity, or inattention. When it comes to ADHD, these behaviors tend to be more severe, more frequent, and can negatively impact daily duties and the quality of life for both you and your kid.
It is thought that ADHD is a chronic condition. Early diagnosis and therapy can help control the symptoms of ADHD, just like it can with any other chronic condition. See your primary care physician or your kid's pediatrician if you believe that you or your child may be exhibiting signs of attention deficit disorder (ADHD). They can assist you in determining the next steps for diagnosis and therapy and recommend you to a psychologist or psychiatrist if necessary.
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