Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also referred to as attention deficit disorder (ADD), is a chronic condition that causes patients to become hyperactive, impulsive and/or inattentive. The disorder generally manifests during childhood. There is no known cause of ADHD, although it might be related to chemical imbalances in the brain.
Tests
There is no particular test that can convincingly diagnose ADHD. Physicians usually focus on gathering information from the patient's family and people in constant contact with the patient. The mood and behavior pattern helps the physician compile a profile of the patient's lifestyle.
Diagnosis
The "Diagnostic & Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders" (DSM-IV) provides an outline of symptoms that physicians base their diagnosis on. According to the outline, there are three types of ADHD: combined (both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive), primarily inattentive and primarily hyperactive-impulsive.
Primarily Inattentive
An inattentive ADHD patient exhibits these symptoms: squirming, inability to stay seated, running at inappropriate times, inability to play quietly, excessive talking and interrupting conversations.
Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive
A hyperactive-impulsive ADHD patient exhibits these symptoms: little attention to detail, careless mistakes, failure to stick to a task, difficulty following instructions, avoiding tough tasks, and distraction or forgetfulness.
Adults
ADHD is rarely diagnosed in adults. ADHD in adults can result in low self-esteem and eventually depression. Doctors use written tests to diagnose ADHD in adults. The Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) is such a test that seeks to determine what symptoms the patient might have exhibited during childhood.
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