Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD · Attention Deficit Disorder · ADD)
In this condition factsheet:
The Facts on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that is characterized by a pattern of inattention (inability to concentrate), and hyperactivity-impulsivity, that is persistent and developmentally inappropriate.
ADHD affects 5% to 9% of school-aged children, occurring more frequently in boys than girls. ADHD may persist into adulthood in many cases and is estimated to affect 3% to 5% of adults. An inability to integrate in social, academic, or work-related settings is a pattern seen in people with a history of ADHD. A person with ADHD may have academic and social problems as the condition affects a person's ability to concentrate and focus on tasks.
People with ADHD are especially sensitive to sensory stimuli such as noise, touch, and visual cues. They may often feel overstimulated emotionally as well.
A common belief is that ADHD and ADD (attention deficit disorder) are 2 different conditions, but these names are in fact used interchangeably for the same condition. The term ADD was previously the official name for the disorder; the name ADHD, which includes an “H” for “hypersensitivity”, is now the official name for the disorder.
Causes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
While specific causes of ADHD have yet to be identified, it appears to be largely genetic. Children with ADHD are more likely to have close family members with the same medical condition. It is also much more common in identical twins than in non-identical twins or siblings, and several genes associated with ADHD have been found.
During pregnancy or after birth, certain factors may damage the brain and alter its function. During pregnancy, exposure of the baby's developing brain to radiation, alcohol, or other factors may lead to this condition. Low birth weight may also increase the risk of ADHD. After birth, the development of certain infectious diseases that affect the brain tissue, such as meningitis or encephalitis, may affect the way the brain sends signals and contributes to the symptoms associated with ADHD.
Factors such as parenting style, exposure to television at a young age, or diet are sometimes blamed for causing ADHD. However, there’s limited evidence that these factors are related to ADHD.
Symptoms and Complications of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
An attention deficit problem is officially described as a disorder when it is developmentally inappropriate and the symptoms first appear before the age of 12 and significantly interfere with functioning in at least two settings including school, work, home, or social life. The symptoms should also not be likely caused by other types of mental health conditions like a mood or anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of ADHD fall into 2 large categories: inattention and hyperactivity - impulsivity.
The 9 inattentive symptoms are:
- not paying attention to details or making careless mistakes
- having difficulty sustaining attention
- often not listening when spoken to directly
- often not following through on assignments, or having trouble following instructions
- having difficulty organizing tasks
- often avoiding or disliking tasks that require sustained mental effort
- often losing things
- being easily distracted
- forgetfulness
The 9 hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are:
- often fidgeting or squirming
- having difficulty remaining seated
- often running and climbing when it is inappropriate (or for older individuals, feeling restless)
- having difficulty playing quietly
- often being “on the go” or acting as if “driven by a motor”
- often talking excessively
- blurting out answers to questions that have not been completed
- having difficulty awaiting their turn
- often interrupting or intruding
People with ADHD are much more likely to experience a number of other mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. These may include:
- autism spectrum disorders
- anxiety disorders
- depression
- behavioral issues, or oppositional defiant disorder
- learning disorders, such as difficulty with reading, writing, or mathematics
- sleep disorders
For some children, symptoms may dissipate as they grow older. However, many children with ADHD will continue to have symptoms into adulthood. ADHD symptoms can also persist into older adulthood, where they can often be confused with other symptoms seen as part of the normal aging process or from conditions like dementia.
