Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Symptoms of ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms vary based on the type of ADHD and from person to person. Here are some common signs of ADHD in adolescents and adults:

Inattention

• Trouble staying focused
• Getting easily distracted
• Having a hard time following directions
• Difficulty with organizational skills
• Having a hard time with tasks that require mental effort
• Struggling with time management
• Memory issues
• Appearing as not paying attention
• Being forgetful or losing things frequently

Hyperactivity/impulsivity

• Excessive fidgeting or moving around
• Frequently restless
• Talking too much or for too long
• Interrupting others often
• Trouble controlling impulses
• Getting upset or mad easily
• Impatience

People with ADHD can have predominantly inattentive symptoms, hyperactive/impulsive symptoms or a combination of both.

ADHD symptoms in adults can also vary based on gender:

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in women

ADHD symptoms may be more internal, such as overthinking, trouble making decisions and negative self-talk.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in men

Symptoms of ADHD may be more external, such as hyperactivity, restlessness and aggression.

If you or your child is showing signs of ADHD, it’s important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. With the right treatment plan, ADHD can be effectively managed — and you can live a healthy, full life.

Causes of ADHD

Doctors aren’t exactly sure what causes ADHD. But research suggests that several factors are linked to the neurodevelopmental disorder:

• Genetics: Having at least one parent with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder increases the chances of developing it
• Biological factors: Some people with ADHD also have differences in brain anatomy and activity that cause their brains to mature later than other people
• Pregnancy and birth complications: Problems before or during birth that affect development might cause ADHD
• Environment: Being exposed to certain toxins early in life, such as alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy or high levels of lead, may factor into having ADHD

Types of ADHD

Though attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms start in childhood, it’s a lifelong condition that continues into adulthood. ADHD can evolve and impact you differently at various stages.

Adolescent ADHD

For adolescents ages 10 to 19, ADHD can cause challenges that affect academic performance, social interactions and family dynamics. This can include difficulties with:

• Schoolwork
• Completing assignments on time
• Peer relationships
• Social isolation or conflict
• Misunderstandings and frustration at home

Adult ADHD

About 10 million adults in the United States have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, though there are likely many more who are undiagnosed. You may have fewer symptoms as you age, but adult ADHD can cause difficulties that interfere with work, personal and everyday life. This can include issues with:

• Executive functioning (the brain’s ability to prioritize and manage tasks)
• Inconsistent performance at your job
• Difficulties managing day-to-day responsibilities, like household chores and paying bills
• Meeting deadlines
• Family, friend and colleague relationships
• Feelings of frustration, guilt or shame
• Low self-esteem

Who is at risk for ADHD?

Anyone can develop ADHD. However, certain risk factors increase your chance of doing so. These include:

• Gender: ADHD occurs more often in males, although it’s thought to be underdiagnosed in females
• Family history: The chances of developing ADHD are higher if you have at least one parent or sibling who has it or another mental health disorder
• Brain development and birth complications: Complications such as low birth weight or smoking/alcohol/drug use during pregnancy can affect brain development and influence the risk for ADHD
• Environmental toxins: Exposure to toxins like lead during childhood can increase the risk of ADHD
• History of mental health conditions: Having a mood disorder, like depression or bipolar disorder, can increase the likelihood of ADHD

ADHD treatment options

At Main Line Health, our ADHD specialists will work with you or your child to determine the best treatment. Your care may include one or more of the following:

• Therapy: Working with a trained mental health professional can help you learn how to manage ADHD symptoms, address negative thought patterns and change behaviors that can improve your quality of life. This may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
• Medication: Medicines, such as stimulants or antidepressants, may help relieve ADHD symptoms and help you function better.
• Lifestyle changes: Teens or adults with ADHD can benefit from structured home, work and school environments. This may include establishing routines, using organizational tools and making adjustments to reduce distractions.

Diagnosis and testing for ADHD

ADHD used to be known as “attention-deficit disorder” (ADD) when referring to a person who mainly had inattention symptoms with little to no hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms. Although these terms are sometimes still used interchangeably, ADD is now considered a type of ADHD.

In order to diagnose ADHD, a mental health specialist will conduct an evaluation that may include:

• Exam: You'll discuss your medical history and ADHD symptoms with your doctor, including when they first began and how they affect your life
• Psychological assessment: Your doctor may request a neuropsychological evaluation to assess the impact of your symptoms on your overall health. Such evaluations represent the most accurate and reliable diagnostic method for ADHD.
• Other tests: Your doctor might order tests to look for certain indicators of ADHD, including evaluating your working memory, time management, impulse control and organization skills