4. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults
Some experts believe that ADHD may be the most common chronic
undiagnosed psychiatric disorder in adults. As in children,
it is characterized by inattention, distractibility, restlessness,
mood swings, quick temper, overactivity, disorganization,
and impulsivity. It always follows childhood ADHD, which
may not have been diagnosed.
5.
What Other Disorders Are Associated With Attention-Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder Or Have Similar Symptoms?
A number of disorders may mimic or accompany attention deficit
disorder. ADHD exists alone in only about one-third of children.
Many professionals object to the use of the single term,
attention deficit disorder, to encompass such a wide spectrum
of behaviors, which, they believe, should be categorized
into subgroups. Many of these problems require other modes
of treatment and should be diagnosed separately, even if
they accompany ADHD.
6.
Attention-Deficit Disorder Without Hyperactivity
Attention deficit disorder can appear without hyperactivity,
in which case the child's primary symptoms are distractibility
and an inability to persist in tasks.
7.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
About half the children diagnosed with ADHD also have oppositional
defiant disorder (ODD). The most common symptom for this
disorder is a pattern of negative, defiant, and hostile
behavior toward authority figures that lasts more than six
months. In addition to displaying inattentive and impulsive
behavior, these children demonstrate aggression, have frequent
temper tantrums, and display antisocial behavior. Up to
25% of children with ODD have phobias and other anxiety
disorders, which should be treated separately.
8.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder
Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) is rare and usually
marked by autistic-type behavior, hand-flapping, repetitive
statements, slow social development, and speech and motor
problems. If a child who has been diagnosed with ADHD does
not respond to treatment, the parents might inquire about
PDD, which often responds to antidepressants.
| Copyrights
© 2003 The Kids Clinic
|
