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ADHD Symptoms & Signs of Hyperactive, Inattentive, Combined Subtypes

ADHD Symptoms & Causes

ADHD is a brain-based, biological disorder that, according to research, is likely genetic. Researchers suspect that a gene involved in the creation of dopamine, a chemical that controls the brain’s ability to maintain regular and consistent attention, may be traced back to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In other words, it is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar, or too many video games.

 

How Are ADHD Symptoms Diagnosed?

Pursuing an ADHD diagnosis can be a complicated process. ADHD is a nuanced neurological condition with three distinct subtypes — inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined type — and there is no one test that determines whether ADHD is present in an adult or a child. A professional diagnosis usually follows symptom tests and interviews, a thorough medical history, and evaluations for conditions commonly diagnosed alongside ADD – including oppositional defiant disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, mood disorder, and autism spectrum disorder

 

What Are the Most Common ADHD Symptoms?

1.        Short attention span, especially for non-preferred tasks

2.        Hyperactivity, which may be physical, verbal, and/or emotional

3.        Impulsivity, which may manifest as recklessness

4.        Fidgeting or restlessness

5.        Disorganization and difficulty prioritizing tasks

6.        Poor time management and time blindness

7.        Frequent mood swings and emotional dysregulation

8.        Forgetfulness and poor working memory

9.        Trouble multitasking and executive dysfunction

10.  Inability to control anger or frustration

11.  Trouble completing tasks and frequent procrastination

12.  Distractibillity

13.  Difficulty awaiting tur

 

What Are the Types of ADHD?

ADHD is a neurological condition defined by a consistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactive impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning in at least two settings – for example, at school and at home. It impacts children and adults, boys and girls, and people of all backgrounds. The symptoms above represent the broad range of symptoms associated with ADHD, though symptoms differ with each subtype.¹ ADHD comprises three subtypes:

-inattentive type

-hyperactive or impulsive type

-combined type

 The ADHD symptoms in children differ from symptoms of adult ADHD But this is universal: If you recognize yourself or your loved one in the following ADHD symptoms, and those symptoms persistently disrupt life in multiple settings, contact your medical health-care professional for a diagnosis and bring the results of the ADHD symptom tests below with you for review.

 

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders², at least six of the following ADHD symptoms must impair daily functioning in two or more settings to merit a diagnosis.

 

ADHD Symptoms: Inattentive ADD Checklist

What the 9 symptoms of ADHD – inattentive type?

1.        Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities

2.        Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

3.        Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

4.        Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace 

5.        Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

6.        Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)

7.        Loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools)

8.        Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

9.        Forgetful in daily activities

 

ADHD Symptoms: Hyperactive and Impulsive ADHD Checklist

What the 9 symptoms of ADHD – hyperactive or impulsive type?

1.        Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat

2.        Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected

3.        Runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness in adults)

4.        Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly

5.        Appears “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”

6.        Talks excessively

7.        Blurts out the answers before the questions have been completed

8.        Has difficulty awaiting turn

9.        Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)