Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is found in children as well as in adults. The disorder affects the centers of the brain that control focus and impulses. This results in behavior and personality changes such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior.

The inattention that those with ADHD experience shows up as difficulty focusing on tasks for long periods of time, listening to others in conversations or in lectures, following instructions, or organizing activities and thoughts. Inattention is the predominant symptom seen in girls in their teens and older.

Hyperactivity is another common symptom seen in children with this neurodevelopmental disorder, especially boys. It shows up as difficulty sitting still, restlessness, wanting to continually move, and fidgeting in a classroom. It is usually the symptom that results in the diagnosis of ADHD in children.

Impulsivity is when someone acts in the spur of the moment without thinking about what could happen if they take that action. Those with ADHD often have trouble controlling their impulses, which leads to impulsive behaviors and even behaviors that could be risky for their health or life.

Types of ADHD

Doctors and health professionals who diagnose ADHD characterize the disorder into three categories:

1. Predominantly Inattentive – This one is for those who have mainly problems with focus and the organization of their thoughts. They may also have hyperactivity or impulsivity but it is less pronounced.

2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive – This diagnosis is for those who primarily have hyperactivity and impulsivity problems. The inattention symptom is less pronounced.

3. Combined Presentation – This is the most common diagnosis and people with this type will exhibit all three of the major symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

Those who have ADHD often have other health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, and oppositional defiant disorder. Some of the symptoms in these disorders are similar to those in ADHD and they must be identified in order for the patient to make progress in their mental health. Health professionals who are diagnosing ADHD in a child or adult must evaluate the patient for these conditions before a diagnosis is made.

ADHD symptoms are often seen in children but the condition may also be diagnosed in adulthood. Since ADHD is more easily identifiable in boys, the diagnosis in girls is usually later in life, such as in their teens.

Treatment of ADHD

Standard treatment of ADHD usually includes stimulant or non-stimulant medications that manage the symptoms better. Stimulants commonly prescribed include methylphenidate and amphetamines; non-stimulant ones include atomoxetine.

Treatment also includes behavioral therapy and training for parents on how to better manage their child’s condition. Lifestyle changes are also key to managing the condition, as not getting enough sleep, exercise, or the right foods can impact how the brain functions.

One of the latest treatments that has been used for ADHD is to get a brain scan called a SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) scan. This type of imagine of the brain measures blood flow and activity in the brain and identifies areas in different brain regions that are underactive or overactive. A treatment plan is then given the patient to balance out the blood flow in the different brain regions.

SPECT scans are administered in the Amen Clinics, founded by Dr. Daniel G. Amen. Although some consider this treatment debatable, many have found distinct benefits that were not offered by standard treatment of ADHD.

A Real Health Condition

ADHD is considered a real health condition. It is not due to a choice of laziness, a personality ‘fault’, poor parenting, or a lack of discipline. It often takes a whole family to come together to understand and support the family member with ADHD so that symptoms can be managed.

ADHD individuals can achieve their potential and have an uncanny ability to hyperfocus on one topic they like, and many with ADHD have achieved success in their careers. Well-known individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD include Richard Branson, Ty Pennington, Michael Phelps, Will Smith, Terry Bradshaw, and Paris Hilton.