Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is not limited to children -- 30% to 70% of kids with ADHD continue having symptoms when they grow up. In addition, people who were never diagnosed as kids may develop more obvious symptoms in adulthood, causing trouble on the job or in relationships. Many adults don’t realize they have ADHD, leaving them mystified about why their goals seem to slip out of reach.
What is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects a person’s ability to concentrate and remain composed and focused for an extended period. Those who have ADHD may feel overactive and have difficulty controlling their behavior. ADHD is most frequently diagnosed in childhood, although people of all ages can suffer from this condition.
Why is ADHD Difficult to Diagnose?
Unlike many medical conditions, ADHD cannot be diagnosed by drawing blood or ordering an MRI. Instead, healthcare professionals rely on symptoms reported by the patient or specific kinds of cognitive testing to assess brain function. The Clinic offers neuropsychological testing that can provide precise information on brain functioning and attention problems. ADHD symptoms may include:
- Difficulty paying attention
- Procrastination
- Being easily bored
- Difficulty completing projects
- Difficulty learning something new
- Being easily distracted and forgetful
- Not listening when someone is speaking
- Frequent squirming or fidgeting
- Needing to be in constant motion
- Difficulty participating in quiet activities
- Talking incessantly
- Blurting out inappropriate words or comments
- Interrupting others
- Difficulty controlling emotions
- Interrupting other conversations frequently
How is ADHD Treated at The Clinic?
Though medication alone does not cure ADHD, it can help manage and reduce common symptoms of the condition including inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, drugs for ADHD do come with side effects and risks such as feelings of jitteriness, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings. Some common types of ADHD medications include the following:
- Short-acting stimulants
- Long-acting stimulants
- Non-stimulants
- Anti-depressants
Before any person agrees to take such medications, it is important to understand the facts to make the best decision for themselves or their child.
Important points about medications for ADHD
A lot of people think of ADHD therapy as taking medication. However, ADHD medicine does not work for everyone, and even if it does, it will not eradicate all of your issues or your symptoms. Even though medication for ADHD may enhance focus and concentration, it often has little effect on the symptoms of disorganization, poor time management, forgetfulness, and procrastination, which are the same issues that create the greatest difficulties for many adults dealing with ADHD.
Patients do not necessarily have to take ADHD medication for the rest of their lives. However, it is not healthy to alternate between different drugs regularly. Patients should inform the doctor when thinking about discontinuing medication and so they can work together to reduce the dosage gradually.
Medications are not the only option for treatment. Treatment includes whatever patients do to alleviate their symptoms. And while patients may want to seek professional help along the way, ultimately, they have full control over treatment. Combining medication for ADHD with other therapies increases its efficacy. Medication will be far more effective if patients also get help for emotional and behavioral disorders and learn new coping strategies.
To seek assessment and treatment for ADHD near Central Florida, contact Joel David Ortega-Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. To schedule a new patient appointment, please call 407-565-9477