Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
A child is said to have Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if it shows signs and symptoms of the disease for 6 or more months and its ability to function in two areas, i.e., at school and home.
The signs and symptoms of Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are discussed under three types as given below.
- Predominantly inattentive type
- Hyperactivity–impulsive type
Predominantly Inattentive Type
Children who are inattentive show the following symptoms.
- Avoiding and disliking in engaging the tasks that require constant attention.
- Being disorganized at home and school.
- Being forgetful in daily activities.
- Losing things like toys, books, tools, assignments etc.
- Making careless mistakes in schoolwork and activities.
- Being unable to complete tasks like schoolwork and chores.
- Being unable to continue an activity.
- Daydreaming noticed in girls.
The above problems cause developmental problems in children and adolescents.1 Adults show symptoms like:
- Struggling daily in regulating their attention and emotion.
- Have trouble staying focused.
- Difficulty in getting organized.
- Unable to manage time and money.
- Unable to remember little things in daily life.
Hyperactivity–Impulsive Type
Symptoms of hyperactivity in children include the following:2
- Often restless with hands, feet, or squirms or wriggles in seat.
- Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
- Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate
- Often have trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.
- Is always ‘on the go’ or acts as if ‘driven by a motor’.
Hyperactive behavior gradually decreases with age. Symptoms of impulsivity in children include the following:
- Intrudes others in conversations
- Fear, depression, and mood swings are seen in girls
In adults, the symptoms include the following:
- Erratic temper, aggressiveness
- History of excessive job changing
- Impulsive purchasing, decision making
- Tendency to injure themselves and others
Combined Type
Combined type of Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) shows both of the above discussed symptoms.
Next page: Causes of ADHD
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: April 20, 2012