April 1, 2011

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

The symptoms of ADHD are divided into inattentiveness, and hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Some children with ADHD primarily have the inattentive type, some the hyperactive-impulsive type, and some the combined type. Those with the inattentive type are less disruptive and are more likely to miss being diagnosed with ADHD.

Inattention symptoms:

o   Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork
o   Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play
o   Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
o   Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace
o   Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
o   Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork)
o   Often loses toys, assignments, pencils, books, or tools needed for tasks or activities
o   Is easily distracted
o   Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity symptoms:

o   Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
o   Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected
o   Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations
o   Has difficulty playing quietly
o   Is often "on the go," acts as if "driven by a motor," talks excessively

Impulsivity symptoms:

o   Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
o   Has difficulty awaiting turn
o   Interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations or games)

There are three primary subtypes, each associated with different symptoms.

ADHD - Primarily Inattentive Type:

Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
Has difficulty sustaining attention.
Does not appear to listen.
Struggles to follow through on instructions.
Has difficulty with organization.
Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
Is easily distracted.
Is forgetful in daily activities.

ADHD - Primarily Hyperactive/Impulsive Type:

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in chair.
Has difficulty remaining seated.
Runs around or climbs excessively.
Has difficulty engaging in activities quietly.
Acts as if driven by a motor.
Talks excessively.
Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
Has difficulty waiting or taking turns.
Interrupts or intrudes upon others.

ADHD - Combined Type:

Meets both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive criteria.

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