What You Should Know About ADHD: Common Signs and Symptoms

Most people have heard or used the acronym ADHD, but don’t know much about the medical condition. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a very common disorder that affects children and sometimes adults. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 6.1 million United States children have been diagnosed with ADHD. The disorder can sometimes be difficult to diagnose and manage which can be frustrating for families and adults.

Children may have trouble with school, extracurricular activities, and relationships. Adults with ADHD struggle with working, organization, and relationships. If you think you or a loved one may have ADHD make an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. Be advised that getting a diagnosis and medication management may take some time. You may be referred to a psychiatrist or ADHD specialist.

Causes of ADHD

There are no clear-cut causes of ADHD. Researchers believe that genetics may play a role but there is not an exact cause that has been pinpointed. There have been many myths about sugar consumption, television, poverty, parenting, or environmental factors causing ADHD but there is no evidence to prove this. The cause of ADHD is currently unknown.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD

The signs and symptoms of ADHD can vary greatly between individuals. Some primary healthcare providers may refer you to a psychiatrist or specialist for diagnosis and management. Some basic signs and symptoms you may notice are trouble focusing, frequently zoning out or daydreaming, forgetfulness, losing things, inability to sit still, being very talkative, carelessness, taking unnecessary risks, poor impulse control, and difficulty with relationships.

These are just a handful of signs and symptoms of ADHD but you may notice a pattern that individuals with ADHD struggle with focusing, following through with tasks, restlessness, and relationships. There are other medical conditions that can have similar symptoms and that is why it is important to see a healthcare professional who is familiar with ADHD and similar conditions for diagnosis.

The Three Different Types of ADHD

Many people don’t know that there are three different types of ADHD.

  1. There is the predominantly inattentive presentation which presents as someone who has difficulty with organization, finishing tasks, detail orientation, instructions, and conversations. A person with a predominantly inattentive presentation is distracted easily and may struggle with routines.
  2. The second type of ADHD is predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation which presents as someone who speaks a lot and is restless. They have trouble sitting still which makes activities like homework and family meals difficult. They are constantly on the move and have impulsive tendencies. The individuals with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation might interrupt others, talk at inappropriate times, and struggle with following directions.
  3. The third type of ADHD is referred to as a combined presentation. It is a combination of the symptoms of both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive presentations.

ADHD Treatment

ADHD is treated with behavior therapy and medication. The frequency of therapy and the type of medications prescribed depends on the individual. Sometimes it will take trial and error until a good combination that works for the individual is found. If you have a child with ADHD, you may be asked to be involved in behavioral therapy and to learn strategies to help your child.

Frequently Used ADHD Medications

ADHD medications help with paying attention, focusing, and concentrating. Medications to treat ADHD are categorized into two types, stimulants and non-stimulants. Most commonly, stimulant medications are used to treat ADHD but some individuals have side effects or other conditions where they cannot take a stimulant. Approximately 70% of children that take a stimulant medication have fewer ADHD symptoms (CDC, 2021). It is essential that there is open communication with your prescribing healthcare professional so that you can work together to figure out what works best. The frequently prescribed ADHD medications include methylphenidate and amphetamine/dextroamphetamine.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant, also known as Ritalin or Methylin. It comes in many different forms such as tablets, chewable tablets, liquid form, and patches. Common side effects include nervousness, irritability, trouble sleeping, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, weight loss, stomach upset, diarrhea, heartburn, dry mouth, and headache.

Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine are stimulants that are also commonly known as Adderall. It can come in a short-acting or long-acting formula. Common side effects include nervousness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and weight loss.

As with all medications, there are possible more serious side effects. If you or your loved one experience any serious side effects you should call 911 or go to the emergency room. Serious side effects for any medication include irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive tiredness, speech difficulty, loss of consciousness, weakness, seizures, hallucinations, motor tics, verbal tics, rash, and swelling.

Resources for ADHD

Talk with your healthcare professional about any questions or concerns you may have about ADHD. There are many helpful resources located on the internet to educate about ADHD. For more information, check out the following resources:

Key Takeaways

  • ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
  • It can affect children and adults.
  • The cause of ADHD is unknown at this time and more research is needed.
  • There are many symptoms of ADHD including trouble focusing, not being able to complete tasks, restlessness, and difficulty with relationships.
  • Treatment for ADHD includes behavioral therapy and medication.

Most commonly stimulant medications are used to treat ADHD. If you experience side effects from any medication you should call the prescribing healthcare professional. If you have serious side effects you should call 911 and seek emergency medical care immediately. It is essential to discuss your concerns with your healthcare professional and have good communication with them. ADHD management can be difficult and it is important to work with your healthcare professional to find the treatment that works best for you or your loved one.

About the Author

Victoria Derlin is a nurse who started her career working in acute care and now works in primary care. She is passionate about advocating for nurses and patients. In her spare time, she rides horses, reads lots of books, bakes delicious pies, and spends time with her family. You can connect with her on instagram @nurse.vicki.rn

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, September 23). What is ADHD? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved March 10, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Methylphenidate: Medlineplus Drug Information. MedlinePlus. Retrieved March 10, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682188.html

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Dextroamphetamine and amphetamine: Medlineplus Drug Information. MedlinePlus. Retrieved March 10, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601234.html