SIGNS
& SYMPTOMS
 ADHD
can be defined as a persistent pattern of inattention and/or
hyperactivity-impulsivity that is more frequent and severe
than is typical for others at a similar level of development.
 There
are three subtypes of ADHD: The predominantly inattentive
type, the predominantly hyperactive and impulsive type,
and a combination of these two. In actuality, most people
have a combination of these two forms. The following is
the official diagnostic criteria from the American
Psychiatric Association's DSM - IV:
•
The symptoms must be present and cause difficulty before
age 7
• The symptoms must cause problems in two or more settings
(home, school, or work
•
There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in
social, academic, or occupational functioning
• The symptoms may not occur exclusively during the
course of another disorder, such as schizophrenia, depression,
anxiety, or a personality disorder
The
Inattentive type may be diagnosed
if 6 or more of the following symptoms of inattention have
persisted in the patient for more than 6 months, and have
caused problems at home, work, or school:
•
Often fails to give close attention to details or makes
careless mistakes
• Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks
or play activities
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Often does not follow through on instructions, and
does not finish tasks
• Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• Often avoids engaging in tasks that require sustained
mental effort
• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities
• Often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
• Often forgetful in daily activities
The
Hyperactive-Impulsive type may be diagnosed if 6 or more
of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted
in the patient for more than 6 months, and have caused problems
at home, work, or school:
• Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
•
Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in
being seated is expected
• Often runs about or climbs excessively when it is
inappropriate (in adolescents and adults, this may be limited
to feelings of restlessness)
• Often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure
activities quietly
• Often "on the go" or acts as if "driven by a motor"
• Often talks excessively
• Often blurts out answers before questions have been
completed
• Often has difficulty awaiting turn
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others
To
determine if the above criteria are met, a physician or
health care worker often uses structured questionnaires
to have parents and teachers rate the behaviors of the patient.
These questionnaires are scored and used for both diagnosis
and follow-up. The most widely accepted questionnaire is
the Conners Parent
and Teacher Questionnaire. Keep in mind that you should
not use this test to diagnose somebody with ADHD. The Conners
scale is but one of a number of tools used to diagnose ADHD.
As we mentioned previously, if you are concerned that your
child, yourself, or somebody you care about has this illness,
please consult your physician.
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