Symptoms of ADHD in Adults<br /><br />A 43-year-old married woman came to Dr. Amen concerned she may have ADD (predominantly inattentive type). She was having difficulty staying on top of schoolwork and household chores. She was unorganized and often lost her keys or wallet.<br /><br /><br /><br />She was prone to losing the track of time. She was self-deprecating and a negative outlook. She also suffered from an ongoing sadness that was not depression.<br /><br />Inattentional ADD<br /><br />People who have inattention ADHD have trouble paying attention to details and making careless mistakes. They may struggle to remember the information they've heard or forget to finish a task or homework assignment. They frequently lose keys, wallets and other things they require to survive. They are often late to appointments or have difficulty keeping up with bills and messages.<br /><br />While children with hyperactive ADHD are easy to identify as they move around in their seats, fidget or talk nonstop, those with the inattentive kind of ADD slip under the radar since they don't show obvious behavior issues. This subtype of ADD is more common in girls than in boys. Many teachers are unaware of their symptoms as they don't fit into the stereotype of a "bad kid'.<br /><br />Adults who suffer from inattention ADHD struggle to follow directions, both at home and at the workplace. They tend to delay tasks and avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort. They may also find it difficult to keep track of lectures or conversations and can be easily distracted by distractions like unrelated thoughts or the television or internet. Inattention ADHD symptoms can be misinterpreted as lazyness or inability to focus. Many adults are annoyed when loved ones or colleagues continually remind them of their missed commitments.<br /><br />It is important to understand that inattention ADD can be triggered by stress, other mental disorders, or physical illnesses. To determine the cause and determine if treatment is needed for you, a thorough evaluation by an expert in mental health or health care professional is recommended. They will request details about your medical history, perform a physical examination and discuss your lifestyle to pinpoint any other issues that may be causing your symptoms.<br /><br />Overfocused ADD<br /><br />People with People with ADD are not able to shift their focus and instead are focused on a specific task. They can also be extremely organized, which may confuse some people and cause confusion and a misdiagnosis. Because they tend to lack dopamine and serotonin These individuals are typically treated with standard ADHD medications that increase serotonin and dopamine. This treatment can actually worsen their ADD symptoms.<br /><br />People who suffer from this condition may feel suffocated by their inability to divert their thoughts, causing them to struggle with anxiety and depression. Moreover, they are prone to get stuck in negative thoughts and behaviors that can be hard to break free from without intervention. Adults suffering from Overfocused ADD have seen positive results from cognitive-behavioral therapy to recognize and alter negative thoughts patterns, mindfulness techniques that reduce rumination and training for skills.<br /><br />If someone is diagnosed with Overfocused ADD the brain's anterior cortex gyrus is overactive, which can lead to hyper-focus and moodiness. The stimulant ADD medications can stimulate this area of the brain to an extent and can cause more symptoms and irritability. This is why a healthy diet and other non-medical treatments have proven beneficial for those suffering from this condition.<br /><br />People suffering from Overfocused ADD tend to "stick" in negative cycles. This can cause stress and strain relationships. Making a schedule, using a digital planner and joining in community-based support can help ease some of their symptoms. Couples coaching can be beneficial for people with ADD as it assists to establish roles and expectations among partners. This can help improve communication and develop a more balanced life for both people. As always, the most effective treatment for ADD/ADHD involves working with an Occupational or Medical Doctor to identify the best program to manage and reduce your symptoms.<br /><br />Anxious ADD<br /><br />Often people who have ADD also experience anxiety. This could be pesky anxiety, tense periods of worry or full-blown anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or specific phobias. Regardless of whether it's just an occasional anxiety attack or a longer-lasting anxiety, it can significantly interfere with the way you live and work. Nearly 80% of those who suffer from ADHD have at least one additional diagnosis and anxiety is the most frequently-cited disorder that is a comorbidity.<br /><br />Anxious ADD is one of the "7 types of ADD." This type is characterized by a heightened anxiety and nervousness as well as inattention. <a href="https://canvas.instructure.com/eportfolios/3204263/Home/The_Reasons_ADHD_In_Adult_Women_Symptoms_Is_Tougher_Than_You_Think">view website</a> is caused by a disordered brain. In this instance it is evident that qEEG mapping reveals that certain brain regions are hyperactive or out of balance. This includes the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.<br /><br />People who suffer from this kind of ADD are highly sensitive to external stimuli like noise, light and touch. They are susceptible to overreacting and have a short temper. They are prone to repetitive negative thoughts or behaviors and often engage in self-sabotage. They are also more likely to have an impulsive conflict-prone and atypical personality.<br /><br />The treatment for this type involves balancing GABA with dopamine and encouraging relaxation. People suffering from this type of ADD must get enough sleep and exercise, as well as eat a balanced diet. They should also avoid sugar and processed foods. If possible they should follow the same routine for sleeping and waking up and stick to the same routine daily. It is also recommended to incorporate physical activity into their professional or academic activities. For example for those who have a desk job or a desk job, they should get up or walk around at least once per hour.<br /><br />Ring of Fire ADD<br /><br />This theoretical type of ADD is characterized by overactivity in the Cerebral Cortex, as well as increased activity in the right and left Parietal Lobes, and the left and right Temporal Lobes. Those with Ring of Fire ADD will likely suffer from all the classic ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty staying focused and impulsive behavior. They may also show high levels of anxiety, rapid thinking and irritability. They are often overwhelmed by sensory stimuli and are often unresponsive and argumentative.<br /><br />People who have Ring of Fire ADD are frequently misdiagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, because their symptoms appear to be similar. But the difference is that people who have Bipolar Disorder are prone to experiencing periods of depression and mania while those who have Ring of Fire ADD typically have symptoms that occur on a consistent basis.<br /><br />Ring of Fire ADD is more difficult to treat than other forms of ADHD. The symptoms are usually linked to an imbalance in brain chemicals, and treatment is focused on correcting the imbalance. The good news is that by using a set of strategies that are well-established, people can manage their Ring of Fire ADHD symptoms and lead a balanced and productive life.<br /><br />If you are experiencing symptoms of Ring of Fire ADHD, it is important to seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional. Although Dr. Daniel Amen's research has been viewed with suspicion by a large portion of the medical field, he does have some good points. You can get the help that you need by identifying the types of ADHD. Consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and get on the road towards a happy and healthy life.<br /><br />Classic ADD<br /><br />Classic ADD is what the majority of people think of when they hear the word ADHD. It encompasses all of the symptoms of inattentive ADD but also hyperactivity and impulsivity. The people who suffer from this form of ADD struggle with organization, planning prioritizing, time management and self-monitoring. They are easily distracted and do not have the mental stamina to complete tasks that are not their favorite. They are not usually classified as "hyperactive," but they are troubled in following instructions and often miss appointments. They have decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex and low dopamine levels.<br /><br />People with this form of ADD have trouble with their emotions and have difficulty dealing with anxiety, stress and depression. They may have a family history of abuse or trauma, or have gone through an emotional divorce. People suffering from limbic ADD have less activity in their prefrontal cortex and abnormalities in the temporal lobes which control moods. This form of ADD is treated with antidepressants and other supplements to regulate neuronal function.<br /><br />Dr. Zlatin Ivanov specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of adult ADD. His unique test method identifies and determines the best treatment for each patient's needs. Contact Psychiatry NYC to schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized ADHD treatment.<br /><br />