What Is ADHD? What Are Its Symptoms, Treatment, ADHD Tests and ADHD Gait?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder seen in school-age children, whose symptoms may also persist into adulthood. For many years, it was believed that ADHD symptoms stemmed from a behavioural problem and could be corrected with more discipline. However, many studies conducted today show that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder and that this condition may affect the structure and functioning of the brain.
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, individuals with ADHD can go on with their lives like people without attention deficit problems and can be highly successful. However, if ADHD is not diagnosed early and the necessary treatment is not given, individuals may face problems in their education, social relationships and family relationships. ADHD treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. In other words, drug therapy and educational, behavioural and psychological support may need to be carried out together. Mental health professionals prepare the appropriate treatment plan according to the person's age, the severity of the symptoms and their effects on daily life. You can find questions frequently asked by the public, such as "What Does ADHD Mean?", "What Are the ADHD Diagnostic Criteria?", and much more in our article below.

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by symptoms such as difficulty focusing and sustaining attention, inability to stay still, appearing not to listen, frequently interrupting when someone else is speaking, and forgetting tasks that need to be completed. In short, ADHD is not spoiled behaviour or indifference. Certain changes in the regions of the brain responsible for functions such as control, attention, timing and working memory may lead to the emergence of various neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the neurodevelopmental disorders defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association. The ADHD diagnostic criteria are known to have changed many times over the years.
Since the symptoms of inattention, impulsivity and excessive activity in children were first described in 1902, ADHD has been referred to by different names and has come to be better understood over time. While the first descriptions focused more on hyperactivity, attention problems and impulsive behaviours were also included in the diagnosis in later years. In the diagnostic manual published in 1980, attention deficit was addressed under a separate heading. In subsequent years, attention deficit and hyperactivity were evaluated together, and the name Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is still used today, was adopted.

What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?

In the DSM-5 diagnostic manual used today, ADHD symptoms are grouped into three types according to the predominant domain: predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type and combined type. In other words, while in some people attention deficit and related problems are more prominent, in others hyperactivity and impulsivity may be more pronounced, or both symptom groups may be present.
In addition, for ADHD to be considered, some symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12. However, this should not be taken to mean that ADHD is a disorder specific only to childhood.
The symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may change with age. For example, hyperactivity that is more pronounced in childhood may decrease in adulthood, but difficulties with sustaining attention and organising tasks may still persist. Commonly encountered ADHD symptoms can be listed as follows:

• Difficulty focusing,
• Forgetting a task or activity that needs to be done,
• Being very easily distracted,
• Difficulty staying still,
• Frequently interrupting when someone is speaking.

These are the commonly encountered symptoms of ADHD. However, symptoms may differ somewhat according to the subtypes of ADHD.
What Are the Symptoms of Inattentive-Type ADHD?
Although hyperactivity or impulsivity may occasionally be seen in some people with ADHD, attention deficit is more prominent. The symptoms of inattentive-type ADHD can be listed as follows:

• Missing details because of being easily distracted,
• Difficulty focusing on a single task,
• Getting bored quickly even with an enjoyable activity,
• Difficulty concentrating and learning new things,
• Losing items needed to complete a task, such as pens, notebooks and paper,
• Appearing not to listen,
• Difficulty following instructions,
• Moving slowly and appearing to be daydreaming while doing so.

If inattentive-type ADHD is diagnosed early, symptoms can be brought under control with the help of therapy methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy. Studies show that more girls than boys are diagnosed with inattentive-type ADHD.
What Are the Symptoms of Hyperactive-Impulsive-Type ADHD?
Although symptoms of attention deficit may also be seen in people with the hyperactive-impulsive type, hyperactivity and impulsivity may be more dominant. The main symptoms are as follows:

• Being unable to stay still in settings where one is required to remain, constantly fidgeting and rocking,
• Talking constantly,Difficulty taking part in activities that require silence, such as the cinema or theatre,
• Touching objects and constantly playing with them,
• Being excessively impatient about everything,
• Acting without thinking about the consequences of one's actions,
• Answering without thinking and making irrelevant comments.

Children with these symptoms may cause problems particularly in the classroom and may adversely affect both their own learning and the learning process of their classmates. Unlike the inattentive type, according to research more boys than girls are diagnosed with the hyperactive-impulsive type.

What Are the Symptoms of Combined-Type ADHD?

There are many studies showing that the majority of children diagnosed with ADHD have the combined type. That is, in these children, difficulty focusing and sustaining attention as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity are seen together. In fact, many people may be inattentive or display impulsive behaviours from time to time. In ADHD, however, their severity and duration are greater. In preschool-age children with combined-type ADHD, hyperactivity symptoms may be encountered more often. However, symptoms may change with age.

What Is ADHD in Adults?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to be diagnosed, the symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12. However, this does not mean that the disorder is limited to childhood only. Studies show that in more than three quarters of children diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms persist into adulthood. As in the school years, the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may also make daily life considerably more difficult in adulthood. ADHD symptoms in adults can be listed as follows:

• Frequently being distracted,
• Disorganisation,
• Being unable to manage time properly,
• Forgetting things that need to be done,
• Frequently losing belongings,
• Interrupting others,
• Difficulty when doing more than one task at the same time,
• Difficulty completing projects or failure to complete them,
• A constant need to engage in an activity, a feeling of restlessness,
• Preferring immediate gratification over future success.

In adults, ADHD can often be seen together with other psychological health problems. Some studies show that approximately 70% of adults with ADHD also have sleep problems such as insomnia. For this reason, a detailed evaluation is important for correct treatment planning. In the busy pace of the modern world, most people may experience the above from time to time. However, their frequent recurrence and persistence for longer than 6 months may suggest attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

What Causes ADHD?

Although the causes of ADHD are not fully known, it is known to be of neurological origin. ADHD may arise under the influence of various factors such as brain structure, dopamine levels in the brain, genetic predisposition, certain adverse events during pregnancy and childbirth, and environmental factors. These factors are not completely independent of one another. For example, a person's genetic characteristics may be related to the extent to which they can be affected by certain factors in their environment.
Genetic predisposition plays an important part in the emergence of ADHD. There are some studies showing that the likelihood of this condition occurring is higher in the mothers, fathers or siblings of people diagnosed with ADHD. The fact that the likelihood of ADHD occurring in both twins is higher in identical twins than in fraternal twins also supports this. However, no single gene that causes ADHD has been identified. Therefore, it would not be correct to explain the disorder solely by genetic characteristics.
Studies conducted in recent years on the causes of ADHD show that reduced dopamine levels may also play a role in the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Dopamine is one of the chemical messengers that enables communication between nerve cells and plays a role in processes related to attention, movement and motivation. Research suggests that there may be some differences in the functioning of the dopamine system in ADHD. However, current findings do not show that ADHD results directly from dopamine deficiency. Therefore, in addition to dopamine, other neurological and genetic factors also need to be examined together.
Certain problems experienced during pregnancy and childbirth may also lead to the development of ADHD. There is research showing that the risk of ADHD may be higher, particularly in children born preterm and with low birth weight. The effect of factors such as smoking during pregnancy on the development of ADHD is still being researched.
Exposure to toxic substances such as lead and certain pesticides is also thought to affect functions such as attention, working memory and impulse control. Some research shows that there may be a relationship between exposure to these substances and ADHD symptoms.
Environmental factors may also play a role among the causes of ADHD. Problems within the family, poverty, peer bullying and adverse living conditions may also lead to the emergence of ADHD symptoms. However, it has not been shown that these conditions directly cause ADHD. In some cases, ADHD symptoms may lead to problems in family and friend relationships. On the other hand, environmental conditions may change the impact of the symptoms on daily life. Therefore, it would not be correct to view the relationship between ADHD and environmental factors as one-directional.

Does Nutrition Cause ADHD?

Nutrition is one of the fundamental factors supporting the normal functioning of the brain. The brain needs various nutrients for the functioning of brain cells, communication between nerve cells and cognitive functions such as attention, learning and memory. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, magnesium, B vitamins and vitamin D are important for brain development and function. Although the role of nutrition in the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is not fully known, its effect on brain health and function is known. For this reason, an unhealthy and unbalanced diet may affect brain functions related to attention and behaviour in some people and may indirectly lead to the emergence or worsening of symptoms.
In addition, the effects of sugar consumption and certain additives added to foods on hyperactivity are also among the topics being researched. Although there is no conclusive evidence that sugar directly increases ADHD symptoms, a relationship between certain foods and behavioural changes may be observed in some children. There are also findings suggesting that certain artificial food colourings may be associated with hyperactivity in sensitive children.
A balanced diet that includes different food groups such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, eggs, fish and nuts supports general health. However, changing the diet alone is not sufficient for managing ADHD symptoms. If vitamin or mineral supplements are to be used or the removal of certain foods from the diet is being considered, it is important to consult a specialist.

What Is ADHD Gait?

In the first few years of life, most children are very curious and may walk on their tiptoes to reach various objects, play or dance. This behaviour is natural in early childhood. However, it is expected to decrease over time. If toe walking continues after the age of 3 and there is no underlying health problem such as a muscle disorder, specialists may recommend that the child also be evaluated for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

What Happens If ADHD Progresses?

When ADHD symptoms are not managed, they may lead to difficulties in school or work life, social relationships and daily responsibilities. The severity of symptoms and their impact on the person's life may change over time.

How Long Should ADHD Medications Be Used?

The duration of use of ADHD medications varies from person to person. Doctors decide whether treatment will continue by taking into account the impact of the symptoms on daily life, the benefit provided by the medication and its side effects.

What Can Be Done at School for ADHD?

At school, giving clear and short instructions, breaking long tasks into smaller steps, reducing distractions and reinforcing positive behaviours may be beneficial.

When Does ADHD Improve?

It is not correct to say that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will disappear completely in every person. However, with early diagnosis and individualised treatment, symptoms can be largely brought under control.

When Does ADHD Appear?

ADHD symptoms begin in childhood. According to the diagnostic criteria, some of the symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12. Nevertheless, in some people the diagnosis may be made in adulthood because the symptoms were not noticed in childhood.

In Whom Is ADHD Most Common?

ADHD can be seen in children and adults. Although boys are diagnosed more often in childhood, ADHD can also be seen in girls.

Until What Age Does ADHD Last?

It is difficult to say that the symptoms will resolve completely once a certain age is reached. While in some people the symptoms lessen with age, in others difficulties related to attention, time management and organisation persist into adulthood.

ADHD or Giftedness?

ADHD and giftedness are completely different from each other. A gifted person may also have ADHD. Attention problems or changes in school performance alone do not indicate a person's level of intelligence or that they have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A definitive diagnosis can only be made by a specialist.

What Are the Characteristics of a Child with ADHD?

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may have difficulty sustaining their attention, following instructions or completing tasks they have started. In some children, behaviours such as constant movement, inability to wait their turn and interrupting others are more pronounced.

Is ADHD a Form of Autism?

ADHD and autism spectrum disorder are different neurodevelopmental conditions. ADHD is defined mainly by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, whereas autism is defined by characteristics of social communication and interaction and by restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour.

What Is ADHD Medication?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications are medications used to reduce symptoms of attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

When Is ADHD Considered a Disorder?

Inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity can be seen in everyone from time to time. If these behaviours persist for a long time, are more pronounced than expected for the person's developmental level and adversely affect their daily life in more than one setting, an evaluation for ADHD may be carried out.

How Is ADHD Diagnosed?

Since there is no specific method used for the diagnosis of ADHD, the diagnosis can only be made after a comprehensive examination. During the diagnostic process, the person's symptoms, developmental history and how the symptoms affect their daily life are evaluated together. In line with the DSM-5 ADHD diagnostic criteria, at least 6 symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity must be present in children up to the age of 16, and at least 5 in people aged 17 and over. It is also important that the symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months and are inconsistent with the person's developmental level.
For the diagnosis, some of the symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12, must be seen in at least two different settings such as home, school or work, and must adversely affect the person's social, academic or occupational life. During the evaluation, information may be obtained from family members, teachers or others who know the person closely. Psychological problems that may cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety disorders, depression, sleep problems and learning difficulties, are also examined in detail during the diagnostic process.

What Is an ADHD Test?

There is no specific test used in the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. "ADHD test" is a term used for questionnaires and symptom rating scales used to assess symptoms of attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsivity. These tools help in understanding the frequency of symptoms and their impact on daily life, but are not sufficient on their own to make a diagnosis.
When an ADHD test is performed in adults, the evaluation covers not only the person's current symptoms but also their behaviour in childhood, school life and the way they carry out daily tasks. When necessary, information is obtained from family members or those who know the person closely. In children, the observations of the family and teachers contribute to the diagnostic process. In addition, the necessary examinations and investigations may be performed to rule out other health problems that may cause similar symptoms, such as anxiety disorder and movement disorders.
ADHD tests found on the internet may give an idea about the symptoms, but a specialist evaluation is required for a definitive diagnosis. Particularly in adults, since ADHD symptoms may have gone unnoticed since childhood, it is important that the person's past life is reviewed in detail.

What Does an ADHD Diagnosis Prevent?

An ADHD diagnosis alone does not prevent a person from continuing their education, work or social life. However, the impact of the symptoms on the person's functioning and the support they need vary from person to person. Where special occupational or legal conditions apply, the relevant rules are evaluated separately.

What Is the Treatment for ADHD?

The treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is planned according to the person's age, the severity of their symptoms and the difficulties they face in daily life. The aim of treatment is to make the person's school, work and social life easier by bringing attention problems, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviours under control. For this reason, in addition to medications, behavioural interventions, psychological support and educational support may also be used in ADHD treatment. The main ADHD treatment methods are as follows:

• ADHD medications can help increase attention span and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. The choice and dose of medication are determined according to the person's age and needs. It is important that medications are used as recommended by the doctor and not discontinued on one's own.
• Particularly in children, training for parents, reinforcement of positive behaviours and establishment of consistent daily routines can help manage symptoms.
• It can contribute to the person developing skills for managing their attention, planning their time, completing their tasks and coping with the difficulties they experience in social relationships.
• At school, reducing distractions, planning tasks and involving teachers in the treatment process can make the child's learning process easier.

Not every person's treatment needs are the same. Therefore, the methods may be applied alone or in combination according to the person's age and needs. A balanced diet, regular physical activity and adequate sleep are also important for supporting general health and daily functioning. However, methods such as vitamin and herbal supplements, special diets or neurofeedback should not be used on one's own initiative in place of ADHD treatment. The level of evidence regarding the effectiveness of these methods may vary; supplements in particular may interact with certain medications. For this reason, a physician should be consulted before trying a new method.
Since ADHD symptoms may change according to the person's needs at different stages of life, the treatment plan may also be readjusted over time. With regular specialist follow-up and appropriate treatment support, the impact of the symptoms on daily life can be reduced.

What Can Be Done for ADHD?

Making certain arrangements in daily life to cope with ADHD symptoms can make time management and sustaining attention easier. Developing habits suited to the person's needs can help them carry out their daily responsibilities more comfortably. Some methods that can be applied for ADHD are as follows:

• Keeping track of tasks and appointments by using a planner, to-do lists and digital reminders,
• Making it easier to get started by dividing large tasks into stages that can be completed more easily,
• Minimising distractions by organising the work environment, turning off notifications and taking short breaks when necessary,
• Establishing regular sleep times and incorporating enjoyable physical activities into daily life,
• Stopping to think and weighing up the options, particularly before important decisions.

These methods can help manage ADHD symptoms, but they are no substitute for professional support. If the symptoms are adversely affecting daily life, it is important to consult a specialist and evaluate treatment options suited to the person.
If ADHD symptoms are affecting your daily life, the necessary evaluation and treatment processes are carried out by specialist physicians at the Psychiatry department of Yeditepe University Hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD