Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD continues to be a diagnosis of exclusion and should not be diagnosed if the behavioral symptoms can be better explained by other mental disorders. However, comorbidity with other mental disorders is common.

• With a prevalence of over 5%, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most frequent disorders within child and adolescent psychiatry.

• ADHD is characterized by the heterogeneity of presentations, which may take opposite forms, by frequent and variable comorbidities and an overlap with other disorders, and by the context-dependency of symptoms, which may or may not become apparent during a clinical examination.

• Adult ADHD symptoms may include:

  1. Impulsiveness

  2. Disorganization and problems prioritizing

  3. Poor time management skills

  4. Problems focusing on a task

  5. Trouble multitasking

  6. Excessive activity or restlessness

  7. Poor planning

  8. Low frustration tolerance

  9. Frequent mood swings

  10. Problems following through and completing tasks

  11. Hot temper

  12. Trouble coping with stress

• Causes: - Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include:

  1. Genetics: ADHD can run in families, and studies indicate that genes may play a role.

  2. Environment: Certain environmental factors also may increase risk, such as lead exposure as a child.

  3. Problems during development: Problems with the central nervous system at key moments in development may play a role.

• ADHD can make life difficult for you. If any of the symptoms listed above continually disrupt your life, talk to your doctor about whether you might have ADHD.

source:

1. https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/html/10.1055/s-0040-1701658

2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878