ADHD Definition аոԀ Facts
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- ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Some people call it ADD, but ADHD is the correct name for it.
- There are 3 main types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined type.
- Anyone can have moments of being inattentive, impulsive, or hyperactive. Adults with ADHD, however, experience these symptoms repeatedly and in a way that is severe enough to have an impact at home, at school/work, or in social situations.
- Symptoms must be present for at least 6 months in two or more settings (eg, home, school/work, with friends). In addition, symptoms must also have been present before the age of 12 and not be better explained by another mental disorder. See additional diagnosis information.
- ADHD is a treatable medical condition. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown but it may be caused in part by an imbalance in chemical messengers that affect the brain.
- These are not the only criteria used to diagnose ADHD. Diagnosis should be based on a complete history and only a doctor or trained health care professional can accurately diagnose ADHD. Find a doctor near you.
- Only a doctor or other health care professional can accurately diagnose ADHD.
What Causes ADHD?
The exact cause of ADHD is still unknown. Here’s what we do know:
Is ADHD genetic?
Research suggests that ADHD tends to run in families. However, this does not mean that all children in a family will have the disorder.
Neurotransmitter function could be involved.
The brain uses various chemicals called neurotransmitters to help send messages across the nervous system. An imbalance of these chemical messengers may result in the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms of ADHD.
Certain environmental factors may play a role, too.
Certain external factors, such as smoking during pregnancy or complications from pregnancy, delivery, or infancy, may contribute to ADHD.
