Alternative Names distractibility, hyperkinesis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Definition Hyperactivity in adults involves excessive talking or moving. Other traits include poor concentration or impulsive acts.
What is going on in the body? The disorder is caused by chemical and electrical imbalance. This results in poor motor impulse control.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? A hyperactive adult:
fidgets or has some part of the body constantly in motion
interrupts and has difficulty taking turns
talks excessively
feels constantly restlessness
is impulsive
daydreams
has a poor concept of time
What are the causes and risks of the condition? Causes for hyperactivity may include:
environmental or food allergies
neurological damage or disease
chemical imbalance
possible genetic influence
Risks to the individual from the disorder include:
reduced awareness of safety
difficulty with organisation or structure
trouble grasping space and time concepts
need for the body to be in motion
What can be done to prevent the condition? A person can prevent hyperactivity by reducing contact with things that may cause an allergic reaction. These may include particular foods or substances in the environment. Structured home, school and work situations may also help control the problem.
How is the condition diagnosed? Individuals with hyperactivity should be examined by a doctor. The examination should include a complete medical history. Tests should also be done to rule out medical causes for the behaviour. Medical causes can include allergies, thyroid problems, and reactions to medications.
What are the long-term effects of the condition? The long-term effects of the condition include difficulty focusing and the need to be in constant motion.
What are the risks to others? A hyperactive person may not be aware of safety in certain situations. This lack of awareness can cause dangerous situations for others around the person.
What are the treatments for the condition? Treatment includes both medication and behaviour management. Stimulant drugs are often used. These include: methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and pemoline. Behaviour management strategies are used at home, in school and at work.
What are the side effects of the treatments? Medication side effects can include:
reduced appetite.
difficulty sleeping.
mood changes as medication wears off.
changes in weight.
involuntary motor tics or vocal tics. Tics are compulsive, repetitive movements, usually involving the face or shoulders.
Behavioural side effects can include an initial increase in negative behaviour until new behaviours become routine.
What happens after treatment for the condition? The individual will need frequent checkups after treatment to watch the effects of different medications and dosages.
How is the condition monitored? A person with the disorder should keep track of any physical or behavioural changes. He or she should call the doctor if symptoms get worse.
Author: Ann Reyes, Ph.D. Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
