Types of ADHD: diagnosis and treatment

Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are the main symptoms of ADHD. Depending on the prevailing clinical symptoms, there are three types of ADHD:

  • predominantly impulsive / hyperactive – inattention is not a pronounced symptom;
  • predominantly inattentive – without significant hyperactive and impulsive behavior;
  • combined – all the main symptoms are pronounced.

Children sometimes act without thinking, they are restless and dreamy and this is their normal behavior. Therefore, ADHD can be difficult to diagnose given that there are several types of this disorder and similar diseases, such as depression or anxiety disorders.

If adults suspect that children have ADHD, they need seek medical advice. A complex approach to the ADHD diagnosis allows to say whether the child is ill or not and what type of ADHD he suffers from.

Some signs of impulsive / hyperactive type of ADHD:

  • difficulties waiting in line;
  • frequent movements with feet or hands;
  • restless behavior even if the child is sitting on a chair;
  • running or leaving the place where the child needs to sit or behave calmly;
  • answers before the question is completely asked.

Some signs of inattentive type of ADHD:

  • loss of toys and things;
  • ignoring the rules and instructions;
  • quick distraction from the tasks to be solved;
  • transition from one unfinished action to another;
  • concentration difficulties.

Children with a combined type of ADHD may develop symptoms of two other types of this disease. In adolescence, impulsivity and hyperactivity problems may decrease or disappear.

If any type of ADHD has been diagnosed, treatment options should be considered. There are a number of available treatment options. The most effective and often used are as follows:

  • behavioral therapy – helps to replace unacceptable behavior with a new behavior;
  • ADHD medications – relieve ADHD symptoms by affecting the brain.

Behavioral therapy and ADHD medications are often used in combination. Such approach to the treatment prevents development of a mental disorder and helps:

  • maintain a clear mind;
  • be more socially active;
  • control your own behavior;
  • improve memory, self-consciousness and logic;
  • increase focus on day-to-day activities.

There are two types of ADHD medications: stimulants and non-stimulants. They work differently and have different effects on children. A child with a certain type of ADHD can respond well to non-stimulants, but badly – to stimulants and vice versa.

Non-stimulants are sold under the brand name Strattera or generic name Atomoxetine. If you want to buy ADHD meds of the stimulants group, look for them under the names Methylphenidate (Methylin or Ritalin), Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin) or Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse).