Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes difficulty with self-regulation of behavior including; inattention, inappropriate impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
For some children, adolescents, and adults, these behaviors interfere with daily life. They can cause difficulties in school, strained relationships, and problems at work.
UPMC experts provide comprehensive care for ADHD using the latest evidence-based therapies. We will develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage symptoms and improve your ability to function.
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What Is ADHD?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes difficulty with self-regulation of behavior, including:
- Inattention — Poor focus, difficulty staying on task, problems with organization, etc.
- Inappropriate impulsivity — Acting without thinking, interrupting others, etc.
- Hyperactivity (in some cases) — Difficulty staying seated, fidgety, feeling restless, etc.
For some children, adolescents, and adults, these behaviors interfere with daily life. They can result in difficulties in school, strained relationships, and problems at work.
What are the types of ADHD?
Types of ADHD include:
- Mostly inattentive ADHD — Causes difficulty with organization, paying attention, following instructions, completing tasks, participating in conversations, and avoiding distraction.
- Mostly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD — Causes symptoms of hyperactivity, such as difficulty sitting still, fidgeting, talking too much, as well as symptoms of impulsivity, such as difficulty controlling actions or words, thinking through the consequences of behavior, and waiting to speak.
- Combined ADHD — The most common type of ADHD, this causes a mix of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD symptoms.
How common is ADHD?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. ADHD affects 7.1 million children and 15.5 million adults in the U.S.
What causes ADHD?
Researchers aren’t sure what causes ADHD. However, they believe it may be linked to genetics and environmental factors.
ADHD risk factors
Although the exact cause of ADHD is unclear, researchers are exploring whether ADHD may be linked to:
- Childhood head injuries.
- Environmental exposures to lead, alcohol, tobacco, or other substances during pregnancy or early childhood.
- Family environment.
- Genetics.
- Parental mental health.
Complications of ADHD
Complications of ADHD can affect various aspects of life and may cause difficulties with:
- Ability to perform everyday activities.
- Mental health and self-esteem.
- Performance in school or work.
- Physical health problems.
- Social relationships.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms typically fall into three categories: inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Symptoms may include:
Inattentive symptoms of ADHD.
Inattentive symptoms of ADHD include difficulty with:
- Concentration.
- Details.
- Distraction.
- Finishing tasks, especially those that require mental effort.
- Following instructions.
- Forgetfulness.
- Listening.
- Losing belongings.
- Organization.
- Paying attention.
Hyperactivity symptoms of ADHD
Hyperactivity symptoms of ADHD include difficulty with:
- Fidgeting.
- Sitting still.
- Talking too much.
- Working or playing quietly.
Impulsivity symptoms of ADHD
Impulsivity symptoms of ADHD include difficulty with:
- Interrupting others.
- Intruding on conversations or games.
- Speaking out of turn.
- Waiting in line.
When should I see a doctor about my ADHD symptoms?
If you or your child has symptoms of ADHD that affect school, work, social relationships, or other aspects of everyday life, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.
How Do You Diagnose ADHD?
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and look for patterns that are common in ADHD.
What to expect during your visit
If your doctor suspects ADHD, they will:
- Ask about your symptoms.
- Perform a physical exam.
- Perform an ADHD evaluation.
- Review your health history and medications.
Tests to diagnose ADHD
No test can diagnose ADHD. Your doctor will look for patterns of ADHD symptoms during an ADHD evaluation.
ADHD prognosis
For some people, ADHD is a condition that requires lifelong treatment and management. Approximately one-third to one-half of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms as adults.
If left untreated, it can lead to problems that affect self-esteem, mental health, school and work performance, and overall functioning. However, with treatment, people with ADHD can live healthy and productive lives.
How Do You Treat ADHD?
The goals of ADHD treatment are to improve your ability to function at school, work, in social situations, and at home. Specific treatment goals will be tailored to your specific symptoms, challenges, and needs.
ADHD care often includes a combination of treatments, such as:
Medication for ADHD
Your doctor may prescribe one or more medications to help manage ADHD symptoms. The most common medications are called psychostimulants, which help calm people with ADHD.
Behavioral therapy to treat ADHD
Behavioral therapy teaches children and their parents, as well as adults, strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. Depending on your needs, your doctor may recommend individual, family, or group behavioral therapy.
Why Choose UPMC for ADHD Care?
When you choose UPMC for ADHD care, you will receive:
- Access to neurodevelopmental disorder expertise — Our neurodevelopmental disorder experts treat the full spectrum of conditions using the latest, evidence-based guidelines and strategies.
- A full range of treatment options — We offer behavioral therapy and medication, often in combination, to effectively treat ADHD and improve your level of functioning.
- Multidisciplinary care — We partner with mental health professionals, pediatricians, primary care providers, and other medical experts to provide complete care that optimizes your quality of life.
