You may have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Unable to stay focused for a long period of time
• Easily distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds
• Unable to pay attention to details
• Frequent careless mistakes
• Difficulty following instructions
• Frequently forgetting things needed to accomplish a task (pen, paper, books, etc.)
• Cannot finish a task, often going from one uncompleted task to another
• Excessive daydreaming and spaciness
• Inability to process information, mental confusion

You may have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, in addition to the ones listed below:

• Hyperactivity
• A sense of always being “on the go”
• Incessant talking, touching whatever is in sight, dashing from one place to another
• Inability to sit still
• Fidgeting, squirming, tapping, wiggling
• Internal restlessness
• A need to continually stay busy
• A need to continuously multi-task
  
• Impulsivity
• Unable to control immediate reactions
• Unable to think before acting
• Blurting out, displaying emotions without restraint
• Acting without regard for future consequences
• Choosing things that have an immediate payoff or short-term reward

Those who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) tend to experience hyperactivity and impulsivity combined with inattention. Those who have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) typically have fewer problems with hyperactivity and impulsivity. Although ADD and ADHD are frequently labeled as childhood disorders, they can also be apparent in adults (known as Adult ADD/ADHD).

Diagnosis
Other psychiatric and chronic conditions can coexist with ADD/ADHD. In addition, ADD/ADHD can be symptoms of an underlying chronic condition. Treating the underlying condition may resolve ADD/ADHD symptoms. Therefore, a complete medical evaluation is essential in making an accurate diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.

The following self-test may help you determine if you have ADD/ADHD:

• Self-test — An ADD/ADHD self-test can be used in conjunction with a full medical evaluation in order to accurately diagnose ADD/ADHD. Take the test now.

Additional Information about Attention Deficit Disorder

1. Attention Deficit Disorder Overview
2. Common causes of attention deficit disorder
3. Natural and alternative treatments for attention deficit disorder
4. Dietary and lifestyle recommendations that may help in the treatment of attention deficit disorder
5. Conventional or prescription medications used in the treatment of attention deficit disorder
6. Cited Sources and Additional Reading for attention deficit disorder

 

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Article ID: 344