ADHD
What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impairs how your brain focuses, controls impulses, and regulates activity levels.
It’s often diagnosed in childhood, but many people struggle with symptoms long into adulthood. In fact, you may not even realize you have ADHD until you’re an adult and work, school, relationships, or household responsibilities begin to overwhelm you.
What Are Some Common Signs Of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms generally fall into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Some of the telltale signs of ADHD are:
- Persistent, unwanted thoughts or urges
- Intrusive thoughts or images
- Anxiety, depression, or distress
- Compulsive rituals
- Fear of germs or dirt
- Needing symmetry and order
- Difficulty tolerating uncertainty
- Horrific or unwanted thoughts
- Not shaking hands because of germs
- Not touching door handles because of germs
- Double and triple-checking doors or ovens
- Distress when things aren’t in order
- Unpleasant sexual images
- Persistent hand washing
- Constant cleaning or orderliness
Needing to move your body constantly is a signature sign of ADHD. You may feel an incessant need to bounce your knee, tap your foot, thump your desk, or wiggle your fingers.
How is ADHD Diagnosed?
Diagnosing ADHD involves an extensive evaluation by your Integrated Neurology Services provider. They review your medical background and overall health history, ask pinpointed questions about your specific symptoms, conduct a physical exam, and use psychological assessments to determine whether you have ADHD and how severe it is.
What Are The Treatment Options For ADHD?
Following a comprehensive assessment, your Integrated Neurology Services provider customizes a treatment plan to manage your symptoms, which may include:
Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you change your thinking patterns and learn behavioral strategies to overcome procrastination, deal with irritability, and improve your attention span.
Medications
Stimulant medications like Ritalin® and Adderall® are the go-to solution to help you stay on task, calm overactivity, and control your behavior. If you don’t respond well to stimulants, your provider may prescribe norepinephrine or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors(SNRIs) instead.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes that include structure and routine, regular exercise, a healthy diet, good work and study habits, and stress management strategies help reduce the severity of ADHD symptoms.
With the proper treatment and support, you can learn to thrive. If you’re struggling to keep up with your day-to-day responsibilities because of ADHD, call the office near you or request an appointment online.
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