Symptoms
All children display some of the symptoms of ADHD. Children with ADHD have symptoms that are more severe and consistent. They often have difficulty in school and with their family and peers.
ADHD can last into adulthood. It can cause problems with relationships, job performance, and job retention.
There are three types of ADHD:
- Inattentive (classic "ADD")
- Hyperactive-impulsive
- Combined
Inattentive (Classic "ADD")
- Easily distracted by sights and sounds
- Doesn't pay attention to detail
- Doesn't seem to listen when spoken to
- Makes careless mistakes
- Doesn't follow through on instructions or tasks
- Avoids or dislikes activities that require longer periods of mental effort
- Loses or forgets items necessary for tasks
- Is forgetful in day-to-day activities
Hyperactive-Impulsive
- Is restless, fidgets, and squirms
- Runs and climbs and is not able to stay seated
- Blurts out answers before hearing the entire question
- Has difficulty playing quietly
- Talks excessively
- Interrupts others
- Has difficulty waiting in line or waiting for a turn
Combined
Combined ADHD is the most common type.
- Has a combination of the above symptoms
Many people with ADHD also often have:
Diagnosis
There is no standard test to diagnose ADHD. It is done by a trained mental health professional. Family and teachers are involved, as well.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that the following guidelines be used for diagnosis in children 6-12 years of age:
-
Diagnosis should be initiated if a child shows signs of difficulty in:
- School
- Academic achievement
- Relationships with peers and family
-
During diagnosis, the following information should be gathered directly from parents, caregivers, teachers, or other school professionals:
- Assessment of symptoms of ADHD in different settings (home and school)
- Age at which symptoms started
- How much the behavior affects the child's ability to function
-
The professional should examine the child for:
- Other conditions that might be causing or aggravating symptoms
- Learning and language problems
- Aggression
- Disruptive behavior
- Depression or anxiety
- Psychotic symptoms
- Personality disorder
-
For a diagnosis of ADHD to be made, symptoms must:
- Be present in two or more of the child's settings
- Interfere with the child's ability to function for at least six months
- Fit a list of symptoms detailed in the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of the American Psychiatric Association
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
Improved
620 HealthChanged
293 LivesSaved
210 LivesPopular this Week
Connect with Women Like You 167 Women Care About this Condition
You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!
+ Join this Community
