MikeLigalig.com

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

Adult Attention Deficit Disorder: A Real Concern

by Karen Vieira, MBA, PhD

Adult attention deficit disorder or AADD is characterized as a condition causing inattentiveness, organization problems, procrastination and difficulty completing work. It is believed that adults can see an onset of AADD later in life maybe as a carryover from childhood, but in order to receive a diagnosis you must have had symptoms as a child. The condition has differing levels of severity so treatment options vary all the way from coping skills to medication to control the symptoms. Medical intervention will come with some unwanted side effects so many patients opt for social counseling and other less invasive treatment options.

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

AADD patients are often the types seen by others as not thinking before they speak or act. They are sometimes referred to as a Type A personality or an always on the go individual. While they may seem to be driven, it is noted that they are rarely focused on one task long enough to see it to completion. In a recent study, three different groups of AADD patients all scored much lower than non-AADD adults on a dual memory and simultaneous capacity test, demonstrating their inability to concentrate in such situations. While this may seems like a small step, this recognition helps prove AADD to be a real concern.

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

It may seem strange that stimulants are prescribed for a disorder that sometimes causes hyperactivity but they are effective in many cases. This is thought to be accomplished by coaxing the brain to manufacture more serotonin. Increased serotonin has been shown to have a calming effect. This not only treats the hyperactive symptoms but may allow an adult to focus on their tasks at hand and see them to completion.

As recognition of AADD grows, more studies may lead to new treatments and an increased awareness of the disorder.

Reference:
Dige, N., Maahr, E., Backenroth-Ohsako, G. (2008). Memory Tests in Subgroups of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Reveals Simultaneous Capacity Deficit. International Journal of Neuroscience, 118(4), 569-591. DOI: 10.1080/00207450701239384

http://brainblogger.com/

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

Symptoms

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been called attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and hyperactivity. But ADHD is the preferred term because it includes the two main aspects of the condition: inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior.

Adult ADHD symptoms may include:

Trouble focusing or concentrating
Restlessness
Impulsivity
Difficulty completing tasks
Disorganization
Low frustration tolerance
Frequent mood swings
Hot temper
Trouble coping with stress
Unstable relationships

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

What's normal and what's ADHD?

Almost everyone has some symptoms similar to ADHD at some point in their lives. If your difficulties are recent or occurred only occasionally in the past, you probably don't have ADHD. ADHD is diagnosed only when symptoms are severe enough to cause ongoing problems in more than one area of your life. These persistent and disruptive symptoms can be traced back to early childhood.

Diagnosis of ADHD in adults can be difficult because certain ADHD symptoms are similar to those caused by other conditions, such as anxiety or mood disorders. And many adults with ADHD also have at least one other mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

Causes

While the exact cause of ADHD is not clear, research efforts continue.

Multiple factors have been implicated in the development of ADHD. It can run in families, and studies indicate that genes may play a role. Certain environmental factors also may increase risk, as can problems with the central nervous system at key moments in development.

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0

Complications

ADHD has been linked to:

Poor school performance
Trouble with the law
Problems at work
Alcohol or drug abuse
Frequent car accidents or other accidents
Unstable relationships
Financial stress
Poor physical and mental health

Although ADHD doesn't cause other psychological or developmental conditions, a number of other disorders often occur along with ADHD. These include:

Mood disorders. Many adults with ADHD also have depression, bipolar disorder or another mood disorder. While mood problems aren't necessarily due directly to ADHD, a repeated pattern of failures and frustrations due to ADHD can worsen depression.

Anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders occur fairly often in adults with ADHD. Anxiety disorder may cause overwhelming worry, nervousness and other symptoms. Anxiety can be made worse by the challenges and setbacks caused by ADHD.

Personality disorders. Adults with ADHD are at increased risk of personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder or antisocial personality disorder.

Learning disabilities. Adults with ADHD may score lower on academic testing than would be expected for their age, intelligence and education.

more at http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/basics/definition/con-20034552

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=81930.0