NuroSens - Symptoms of ADHD

Symptoms of ADHD

ADHD is characterized by three main symptoms:

Attention deficit disorder
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity

In addition, so-called secondary or concomitant symptoms may occur, as well as comorbid disorders.

There is not just ONE symptom of ADHD.

There is no single symptom that indicates attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a combination of several more or less typical symptoms.

ADHD is not a single, uniform disorder.

Not all the main symptoms of ADHD need to be equally pronounced. Consequently, different forms or types of ADHD are distinguished.

The Three Main Symptoms

The term "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder," or ADHD, mentions only two of the main typical symptoms. The third symptom that characterizes ADHD is impulsivity.

Symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways, as can their intensity, and can be influenced by different people.

Attention Deficit Disorders

Affected individuals are generally easily distracted and have difficulty concentrating. Tasks, activities, or even games started often remain unfinished. At school or during conversations, their thoughts tend to wander.

Hyperactivity

Children and adolescents with hyperactivity generally demonstrate outward restlessness and a strong need to move. During the transition to adulthood, the symptoms change and lead to inner restlessness or nervousness.

Impulsivity

Signs include impulsive actions, interruptions, brief and intense outbursts of anger, and a propensity for risk-taking. As they age, those affected generally learn to better manage these impulses and temperament traits.

ADHD vs. ADD

Hyperactivity is one of the main symptoms of ADHD. In attention deficit disorder (ADD), hyperactivity is not present. Affected individuals are often daydreamers and easily distracted.

ADHD Changes with Age!

Depending on age, ADHD symptoms can vary in severity and change over time – ADHD grows with the child! Here you will find detailed information about the symptoms, associated symptoms, and comorbid disorders of ADHD.

The 3 Types of ADHD – How pronounced is ADHD?

There are basically three types of ADHD:

Types of ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is classified into three main types, based on the dominant symptoms: inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Identifying the type is crucial for tailoring appropriate treatments and strategies to manage symptoms effectively.

Predominantly Inattentive Type

The predominantly inattentive type of ADHD is characterised by a significant difficulty in maintaining focus, following detailed instructions, and organising tasks. Individuals may exhibit:

A propensity to forget daily activities
Easily distractible behaviour and a tendency to lose items necessary for tasks
Difficulty in sustaining long-term attention in work or play

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

The predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type displays patterns of hyperactivity and impulsivity, which are more pronounced than in the general population. Symptoms include, but are not limited to:

Hyperactivity: Restlessness, often fidgeting, running or climbing in inappropriate situations
Impulsivity: Hasty actions without forethought, interrupting or intruding on others, difficulty waiting for their turn

Combined Type ADHD

Combined Type ADHD is noted when an individual demonstrates six or more symptoms of inattention and six or more symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity. This type may include:

Inconsistent attention and hyperactive behaviours, shifting across different settings
Struggles with following through on instructions and sustaining attention in lengthy tasks

Symptoms and Behaviours

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterised by varied behaviours connected to inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Understanding the specific symptoms associated with each category can aid in identifying and managing the condition effectively.

Inattentive Symptoms

Individuals with the inattentive type of ADHD may display behaviours such as:

Lack of focus: Difficulty sustaining attention on tasks or play activities.
Forgetfulness: Often forgetting daily activities, chores, or appointments.
Inattention to detail: Making careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities.
Task avoidance: Avoiding or being reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Disorganisation: Struggling with time management and keeping materials organised.
Distractibility: Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
Inability to follow through: Not completing schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.

Hyperactive and Impulsive Symptoms

The hyperactive-impulsive type includes behaviours such as:

Fidgeting and squirming: Finding it hard to sit still for extended periods.
Excessive physical movement: Unnecessary movement or talking in inappropriate situations.
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking about the consequences or making hasty decisions.
Interruption: Interrupting others' conversations, games, or activities.
Inability to wait: Difficulty waiting for their turn in line or in games.

Symptoms in Children vs Adults

While both children and adults can have ADHD, symptom expression may differ:

Children: Boys and girls with ADHD may often run about or climb in situations where it is inappropriate. There may be an inability to play or engage in activities quietly.
Adults: Adults may experience symptoms that lead to inefficiency at work, manifest as difficulties in time management, or come across as irritability and anxiety, which can also affect personal relationships. Adults typically have more subtle signs of hyperactivity but may still exhibit impulsivity and restlessness.

Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

In childhood, this personality type is often described as "restless Philip" or "playful Pauline." The child has a strong need to move, cannot stay still, and often responds impulsively. In adolescence, the symptoms are similar but may intensify or lessen during puberty. In adulthood, affected individuals often feel restless, nervous, agitated, or anxious.

Inattentive Type

Children with ADHD who primarily exhibit inattention are often described as "daydreamers"—they stare into space or seem frequently distracted. As they grow older, the demands of school and professional life become more complex. This attention deficit leads to difficulties concentrating, distractibility, and problems completing tasks in a structured way.

Mixed Type

In mixed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the three main symptoms are present with approximately equal intensity: affected individuals are hyperactive, impulsive, and inattentive. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the individual and their age.

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