Adult ADHD Treatment in Miami

As it becomes more and more of a mainstream diagnosis, Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is now an accepted medical condition that affects more than 4.4% of the adult population in the United States. Marked by an inability to concentrate, disorganization, and unstable relationships, ADHD can have a variety of negative consequences on the sufferer’s life. If you have been diagnosed with Adult ADHD or believe you may have it, you should schedule an appointment with a licensed ADHD Doctor in Miami. Here is more information on what you need to know about this condition and where can you get ADHD diagnosis done in Miami.

What is Adult ADHD?

Adult ADHD is a mental health disorder. Though it can range from mild to extreme, it usually presents with many of the same symptoms. Depending on the type of ADHD an adult has, symptoms can range from irritability and lack of focus to anxiety and outbursts of anger. Others experience chronic lateness or an inability stay organized and some even experience very low self-esteem or stomach problems stemming from the disorder. You can discuss your ADHD symptoms with our Doctor at mango Clinic and he can determine if you have it or not.

How Does Adult ADHD Differ from ADHD in Children?

Hyperactivity is usually the area where adults and children differ the most when it comes to ADHD. While children with ADHD tend to squirm, fidget, run or climb excessively, and can’t sit still, adults are more likely to display symptoms like doodling, restlessness, an inability to complete jobs, and taking part in active or risky behavior that will hold their interest.

In the area of inattention, ADHD children tend to make careless mistakes in schoolwork, seem not to listen when spoken to, don’t complete homework projects, and have short attention spans. Adults with ADHD, on the other hand, are forgetful, have troubles following conversations, lose track of time, and have problems with self-motivation.

Impulsiveness also looks different in adults and children with ADHD. Children blurt out comments inappropriately, interrupt others, and have problems waiting their turn. Adults may spend money impulsively, participate in behaviors that are dangerous, or hurt other people’s feelings with insensitive comments.

It’s believed that adults with ADHD have had the disorder since they were children but many went undiagnosed. This could lead to years of believing their problems are simply ‘part of their personality’ or that they are lazy or not intelligent.

Are There Different Types of ADHD?

One of the reasons that many with Adult ADHD go undiagnosed is because they don’t have the ‘classic’ symptoms of the disorder. With more research, it’s been discovered that there are actually seven different types of ADHD, all with varying symptoms and appropriate treatments. In addition to Classic ADHD, there are also these variations and their corresponding symptoms:

Anxious ADHD: anxiety, tension, headaches and stomachaches

Temporal Lobe ADHD: learning and memory problems; behavioral issues such as aggression or paranoia

Limbic ADHD: low-level sadness, low energy, excessive guilt, low self-esteem

Inattentive ADHD: short attention spans, easily distracted, disorganized, but with no hyperactivity

Over-focused ADHD: getting stuck in negative thought patterns or behaviors, difficulty shifting attention to new tasks

Ring of Fire ADHD: acting out with mean behavior, unpredictability

How is Adult ADHD Diagnosed and Treated?

Many adults who research the disorder and look closely at their own symptoms can self-diagnose ADHD. However, to be certain of the diagnosis and to get the proper treatment, adults should schedule an appointment with a qualified physician who has experience in identifying and treating the disorder. Depending on the type of ADHD you have, you may be treated with lifestyle changes or supplements or, if needed, stimulants or anti-depressants that have been proven to successfully treat your symptoms. Most common ADHD drug is Adderall. Consult with a doctor before taking Adderall.

If you are living with ADHD and have not been diagnosed, you have likely experienced a number of negative consequences that you can’t explain. Getting a proper diagnosis can be a life-changing experience as you now have answers for your prior thoughts and behaviors and you can now receive the treatment you deserve. If you believe you have Adult ADHD, please call our Miami clinic at (305) 776-2898 to schedule an appointment.

More than 11% of children and 4.4% of adults in the United States are living with a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, many do not know what the difference is between the two disorders and how this affects their treatment options.

To put it simply, ADD is the old name for what is now commonly known as ADHD. Though it is now the official medical term for the condition, many of those with ADHD do not have the ‘hyperactivity’ that is stated right in the name.

Recognizing the Different Types of ADHD

Though ADD and ADHD do not actually refer to two separate disorders, it is important to recognize that there are different types of ADHD that present with a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms, such as spaceyness or mean outbursts, are sometimes not easily recognizable as being part of ADHD.

The DSM-V recognizes three different types of ADHD: Primarily Inattentive, Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive, or Combined. Those with Inattentive ADHD tend to have trouble sustaining attention, seem not to listen when spoken to, avoid tasks that require sustained effort, and often lose things they need to complete a task. More girls and women are diagnosed with this type of ADHD than boys or men.

Primarily Hyperactive-Impulsive ADHD sufferers are fidgety, talk excessively, have difficulty playing with others, often interrupt, and have trouble sitting still. This is usually the type we think of when we consider a boy or even an adult having ADHD. Combined ADHD is diagnosed when at least six symptoms from Inattentive and from Hyperactive-Impulsive are present.

Though many in the healthcare profession use the three types of ADHD to diagnose and treat their patients, more research has proves that there are actually seven different types of ADHD, all with slightly different symptoms. These range from Temporal Lobe ADHD, which is characterized by memory or learning problems as well as aggression or paranoia; Anxious ADHD which presents as chronic stress or tension along with stomach problems and headaches; and Over-Focused ADHD, which has symptoms of repetitive thoughts, resistance to change, and difficulty shifting attention when needed.

Different Treatment for Different Types

If you or your loved one has ADHD, it’s crucial to know which type you suffer from so you can get the proper treatment. While stimulants can effectively treat the classic types of ADHD, it can actually have a negative effect on those with Over-Focused or Anxious ADHD. Anti-depressants may prove effective for treating Over-Focused ADHD, but could have little effect in Inattentive or Classic ADHD. In addition, a low carbohydrate diet can help some forms of ADHD while aggravating others.

What You Need to Know for a Diagnosis

Though those with Classic ADHD can often diagnose themselves as they fall into the ‘typical’ range of symptoms, those with others types of less common ADHD may have trouble realizing they suffer from the disorder. Whether or not you have successfully self-diagnosed your condition, it’s important that you see a medical professional who has experience recognizing and treating the disorder. It’s also important that the professional works with adult ADHD as the condition can look much different in adults than in children and needs to be treated correctly.

If you have been living with adult ADHD, you may have been told for years that you’re lazy, lack motivation, or even have a learning disability. Recognizing that you may suffer from one of the many forms of ADHD can come as a huge relief to those who thought it was ‘just them’ and that they just needed to ‘try harder’. If you believe you may suffer from ADHD, please call our Miami clinic at (305) 776-2898 to schedule an appointment.

What to Consider Before Taking Adderall

In our fast-paced world where there never seems to be enough hours in the day, it seems that almost everyone is looking for ways to develop focus or get ahead. Some people, whether they have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or not, have turned to prescription medications to help them gain a competitive edge. Drugs like Ritalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, and Adderall are being used more and more by both children and adults and the abuse rates continue to rise.

For those with severe forms of ADHD, prescription drugs can be a lifesaver and allow them to regain the focus and concentration they lacked while not on medication. However, the illegal abuse of prescription stimulants is skyrocketing and it is something that our society as a whole needs to address.

Have you considered taking Adderall to treat your ADHD or just to gain more focus and concentration in your everyday work or personal life? If so, you should first be aware of the following facts:

You Must Speak with Your Doctor to Get a Prescription for Adderall

Adderall and similar drugs are not over-the-counter. They are Schedule II drugs that have a high potential for abuse and can only be taken when prescribed by a doctor. Adderall is generally only prescribed to those who have ADHD and those who do not have the disorder may have an altered reaction to the drug.

Your doctor or mental health professional can determine if you have ADHD by checking for symptoms listed in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5). There are 18 total symptoms and adults who display six or more symptoms and children under 16 who display five or more symptoms are generally diagnosed as having the disorder. In some cases, the doctor will prescribe a stimulant such as Adderall to see if it helps the patient manage their symptoms.

Those Who Do Not Have ADHD Are More Likely to Abuse Adderall

Some people take Adderall and other stimulants because they enjoy the euphoric feeling that comes with using the drug. This feeling is what leads many to abuse and become dependent on the drug. A recent study also found that those who experience these euphoric feelings when taking stimulants are less genetically predisposed to actually having ADHD. Those who use Adderall as a recreational drug are also more predisposed to abuse other drugs such as alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco.

The Use of Adderall in the Adult Population is Increasing

In the year 2007, there were approximately 5.6 million prescriptions issued on a monthly basis to adults aged 20 to 39. In 2012, that number had tripled, approaching the 16 million mark. Adult prescriptions are increasing at a much faster level than those for children. Some believe it is due to the increased awareness that these drugs increase concentration and can even provide cognitive enhancements to users. This is causing adults to turn to the drugs as a way to cope with stress and work demands.

Stimulants Do Not Always Offer Positive Benefits

Adderall and similar stimulants may help children sit still longer and improve their focus if they have ADHD. However, there is no proof that they actually improve their academic performance. In fact, stimulants can actually impair some creative abilities. In addition, stimulant drugs can be extremely addictive due to the rush of neurotransmitters such as dopamine that affect some users, giving them a sense of euphoria that can be easy to become dependent on.

Stimulants can also elevate blood pressure and speed up the heart. This can lead to issues such as constricted blood vessels and can also lead up to a heart attack or stroke. If you drink while taking Adderall, the effects can be even more dangerous. Drinking while taking Adderall increases the risks of heart problems and can cause heart attacks in otherwise healthy individuals.

Adderall can also increase anxiety due to the way it enhances the effects of dopamine. This can cause dry mouth, paranoia, shortness of breath, and nervousness—especially in those who are already prone to worry or anxiety.

Those who take stimulants may also have trouble sleeping. This leads to exhaustion the next day and causes many to take more stimulants to simply stay awake. Tolerance levels also build quickly with stimulants and users must take more and more to achieve the same effects. This makes stimulants very habit-forming and it can be easy to develop a dependence on them that is difficult to break.

Advertising for ADHD Drugs is Misleading

The FDA has cited every major ADHD drug—including Adderall, Concerta, Vyvanse, Focalin, and even non-stimulants such as Strattera and Intuniv—for misleading advertising and false claims. Some of the drugs have been cited multiple times. These false advertising campaigns by major pharmaceutical companies may be what has led to the increased use—and abuse—of stimulant drugs in the past fifteen years.

Stimulants Such as Adderall Can Have Frightening Side Effects

Along with increased blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety, Adderall can also cause mental health issues that are especially troubling in children. The medication guide that accompanies Adderall warns users to notify a healthcare professional if they experience any mental problems including believing things that are not real or seeing or hearing things that do not exist. There is even evidence of stimulants drugs triggering depression in children and causing terrifying hallucinations in teens. Though rare, there have also been reports of stimulant abuse leading to suicide.

Diagnosis of ADHD Continues to Rise

The number of children between the ages of 4 and 17 who have received an ADHD diagnosis has risen over 41% in the last ten years. Almost two-thirds of those who have received a diagnosis have been prescribed a stimulant such as Ritalin or Adderall. Boys are twice as likely to receive a diagnosis than girls and are also more likely to be prescribed a stimulant medication. Today, almost 20% of high school boys have received an ADHD diagnosis. While some believe this is due to a recognition of the condition, others argue that it is due to pharmaceutical advertising and a misunderstanding of the natural temperament of boys of this age.

Many of Those Who Use Adderall Do Not Consider It a Drug

Most people who take Adderall without a prescription do not consider it to be a dangerous drug. Instead, they thought of it as a study tool and considered it safe because it improved their concentration and because they knew that doctors prescribed it to children.

College students are among the most likely to use and abuse stimulants—especially those that are not prescribed to them. According to a recent study, more than 20% of Ivy League college students used an unprescribed stimulant at least once while in college to help them study. Estimates of those college students who use illegal stimulants range from 6.9% to over 35% and most of those students who were interviewed did not feel like they were cheating or doing anything illegal. In fact, college students were likely to brag about their usage on social media, especially on apps like Twitter and Snapchat.

Many Doctors Tend to Ignore FDA Warnings About Stimulants

There have been numerous FDA warnings regarding Adderall, Ritalin, and similar stimulants. Though the administration warns that these drugs can be highly addictive and have dangerous side effects, doctors continue to prescribe them. Even a 2004 FDA advisory warning about the possibility of cardiac arrest hasn’t changed the amount of stimulants doctors prescribe.

FDA warnings that Adderall, Ritalin, and other prescription stimulants are addictive and can have potentially dangerous side effects also haven’t deterred doctors from prescribing them.

Major League Baseball Players Are Among the Most Frequent Users of ADHD Drugs

Though there is a ban on stimulant use in the Major League Baseball Association, players continue to use the performance-enhancing drugs. When the ban was announced, players began requesting therapeutic exemptions so they could continue to take the banned substances. The rates of MLB players who take stimulants is more than double of the normal population. Though some argue that professional athletes are more likely to suffer from ADHD than others, many don’t agree and believe that players are only using the stimulants to enhance their playing abilities and gain a competitive edge.

The Cognitive-Enhancing Effects of Stimulants Are Unclear

Though many believe that stimulants will give them an edge in school, sports, or careers, experts caution that the cognitive effects of the drugs have not been widely studied and their effects are still unclear. There have been conflicting reports generated from the studies that have been performed and experts argue that most studies are conducted to find impairment in study subjects, not improvement. There is also a lack of evidence on the long-term effects of stimulant usage, especially in healthy individuals who do not display signs of ADHD. This should serve as a warning to those use the drugs for recreational use and make them think twice about using stimulants such as Adderall for everyday performance improvement.

If you’re an adult struggling with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), there are a medley of treatment methods available to help remedy your condition. However, one of the more intriguing and effective approaches exists with the use of Adderall. Learn more about how treating your ADHD with Adderall can improve your health and overall quality of life.

How Adderall Helps Treat ADHD

Classified as a brand-name prescription stimulant, Adderall has a proven track record for effectively treating hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity and other related symptoms of ADHD such as consistent interrupting, excessive talking, forgetfulness, fidgeting, lack of focus and disorganization. As an FDA-approved substance, Adderall should be taken exclusively within the confines of a doctor-administered treatment approach. That typically includes exercise, diet, supplements and/or behavioral therapy. Although the science has not been confirmed, it is generally considered that Adderall precipitates stimulating effects for patients through igniting the mechanism of action related to neurotransmitters in the brain.

What are the Benefits of Taking Adderall for ADHD?

Patients with ADHD typically struggle to complete very basic tasks because of their inability to focus. As a result, they will avoid taking on intensive projects and otherwise seemingly mundane day-to-day tasks. At times, people with ADHD even will feel guilty about it, thereby exacerbating an already self-defeating cycle. Although some people feel guilty about taking Adderall, they really should be considering the positive impact it can have on their lives in terms of seamlessly completing routine tasks. Those using Adderall to treat ADHD find it much easier to manage their personal finances, prepare for academic tests as well as generally organizing their lives. The capacity to accomplish such tasks significantly reduces their stress burden and enhances their overall quality of life and those of their support networks.

Who Uses Adderall to Treat ADHD?

Many adults are struggling with ADHD and some are using Adderall as part of a treatment approach for their ADHD. Famous and visible figures within popular culture and beyond, including the likes of Olympian Michael Phelps, the business mogul Richard Branson, and international pop star Justin Bieber, all have shared their struggles with ADHD. Currently, statistics suggest that over 13.1 million prescriptions were written for Adderall XR in 2016, including generic prescriptions, to treat ADHD symptoms. Justin Bieber, for example, has stated that his mind works more effectively with the use of Adderall for treating his ADHD. The popular entrepreneur and traveler Chris Guillebeau vocally advocates for using Adderall to treat ADHD and has been very open about the benefits he has experienced in his life. Furthermore, professional baseball player Aubrey Huff of the San Francisco Giants finds Adderall effective in boosting his performance on the field as well as in treating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Although patients should exercise caution and consult with their physician before attempting to use the drug in this capacity for treating mental illness, it may well prove effective for your needs.

How to Discuss ADHD and Possible Adderall Usage with Your Doctor

It’s important to know how to discuss possibly using Adderall with your physician before beginning any treatment regimen. Be sure to state up front that you want an appointment to explore your risk for ADHD. Upon the visit, briefly yet openly discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. That would help your physician provide a proper diagnosis. It is critical that you share with your doctor whether you have attempted to self-diagnose your condition and/or whether you have begun taking Adderall already.

If you believe the medication can help your ADHD, please call our Miami clinic at (305) 776-2898 to schedule an appointment.

10 Things You Should Know About Adderall

For adults enduring challenges related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a bevy of treatment approaches exist to help treat your condition. The utilization of Adderall is known to be one of the most effective methods. Discover below 10 important things you should consider when evaluating whether Adderall is right for you.

Adderall can help relieve symptoms related to ADHD

Scientific researchers have found that Adderall precludes the biochemical barriers from forming that precipitate ADHD in adults. Often ADHD results when messenger information to cultivate the production of dopamine is inhibited in the body. Adderall helps prevent this from occurring.

You’ll have better focus when using Adderall

Patients who use Adderall find they are able to focus for longer periods of time with greater concentration. No longer are they putting off accomplishing routine tasks such as paying their bills and maintaining a well-kept home.

Adderall can boost total performance

With better focus comes better net performance for people in all aspects of their lives. People operate more consistently at high levels in competitive environments at work as well as in recreational activities. Artists, business executives, and professional athletes have attested to the benefits of the medication usage in enhancing their performance.

You’ll feel more confident

Given that people are able to focus and perform better with the usage of Adderall, they often experience feelings of greater confidence in social settings. Adults are able to express themselves more openly with less outcome-dependence in interpersonal and romantic settings, thereby enabling them to experience richer and more meaningful relationships.

It provides a long-lasting positive impact

Unlike caffeine that might give you a short-term energy and focus boost, Adderall provides hours of high-level productivity. Adults report experiencing long periods of time of heightened focus and concentrated energy. It enables them to complete time-intensive tasks expediently.

Adderall helps you sleep better

Adderall helps patients with narcolepsy, where they experience the risk of falling asleep at inopportune times, stay awake and manager their sleep patterns more effectively. Subsequently, they function better both in professional and social settings.

You can experience less depression and anxiety

Adderall usage has proven to be effective in combating depression and anxiety in patients. Appropriate dosages have been found to curtail feelings of lethargy and hopelessness. It is also remedying emotions related to uncertainty and fear.

Many successful people trust Adderall

Visible public figures such as Aubrey Huff of the San Francisco Giants, entrepreneur and traveler Chris Guillebeau and pop star Justin Bieber have all found Adderall usage helpful in realizing their career ambitions. They find the drug enables their mind to function more clearly in their given fields of endeavor.

It’s important to consider the risks

Before electing to begin Adderall treatment, it is vital that you consult with your physician and review the affiliated risks. For example, patients who suffer conditions such as advanced arteriosclerosis, hyperthyroidism, moderate to severe hypertension, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, agitated states, and glaucoma, among other conditions, should refrain from the Adderall usage because of potential side effects.

There’s a way to talk about Adderall with your doctor

Do you think Adderall may be beneficial for your struggle with ADHD and affiliated conditions? Be honest with your physician. Tell her/ him about your symptoms and whether you have begun taking the substance. It is important that you mention in advance you want an appointment to explore your risk for ADHD and subsequent treatment.

If you believe Adderall can help your ADHD, please call our Miami clinic at (305) 776-2898 to schedule an appointment.

Do you have ADD/ADHD? Studies estimate that ADD/ADHD affects nearly nine million adults in the U.S; however, only a few receive accurate diagnoses and undergo proper treatment. Research shows that the condition can impair social, occupational and academic functioning, resulting in academic underachievement, underemployment, difficulties in personal relationships, conduct problems, and motor vehicle safety. It also causes hyperactivity, although this may decrease over time. Adderall is the most commonly prescribed drug for Attention Deficit Disorder treatment.

Psychological Conditions Associated with ADD

Nearly 50% of adults with ADD also suffer from associated psychological conditions such as borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and others. The co-existence of these conditions makes it difficult to accurately diagnose ADD since symptoms are remarkably similar to that of ADD. Medical practitioners must determine if the patient has ADD or a mental disorder with symptoms similar to that of ADD, or both ADD and a mental disorder. Speak with a licensed ADD doctor in Miami today, call us now.

Common Symptoms of ADD

Common symptoms of adult attention deficit disorder include:
Chronic tardiness
Chronic boredom
Low frustration threshold
Low motivation
Anger management issues
Poor prioritizing skills
Concentration and attention problems
Procrastination
Impulsive behaviors
Problems in primary relationships
Poor management of time

These symptoms can either be direct manifestations of ADD or a result of issues with proper social adjustment. Depending on the situation and innate disposition, ADD patients can exhibit antisocial tendencies (such as withdrawing from friends and family) or become uncomfortable when left alone, thus requiring and demanding constant social attention.

If left untreated, ADD will adversely impact the quality of the patient’s life and upset several key areas, such as proper management of home life, ability to foster close relationships, and being successful at work. Adderall can help with symptoms. To determine if ADD is a serious problem, speak with a licensed ADD doctor in Miami today. Let’s take a look at some of the ways it can impact your daily life.

Happiness

One of the major ways ADD affects a patient’s life is in his/her level of happiness. The symptoms of ADD can wear you down, causing you to feel overwhelmed with life or overreact when confronted with stressful situations. It makes you tired, anxious, and nervous while making you feel like you are on an emotional roller coaster. This could lead to feelings of depression, rendering you incapable of enjoying the pleasures of life.

Productivity

Adult ADD can make it difficult to finish projects, whether big or small. This means that little household tasks such as paying bills, house cleaning, laundry, etc. are either not done properly or not done on time. The same goes for larger projects such as completing a house renovation project, taking classes to improve professional skills, etc. These manifestations of ADD significantly impact your productivity, thus reducing satisfaction and overall efficiency.

Relationships

When it comes to relationships, most people see ADD sufferers as impulsive, inattentive, distant, and unconcerned; however, this is not the case. ADD symptoms make it difficult for patients to be effective communicators and attentive listeners, meaning that they are not their best in social settings. Miami ADD patients may forget important information such as partners’ birthday, anniversaries, and social events and may interrupt others when speaking. As such, many persons see them as socially inept or immature and may begin to keep their distance.

Self-Esteem

ADD can also impact a patient’s feeling of worth and self-esteem. Since symptoms of ADD make patients unable to complete projects or precisely focus their thoughts and energy on a particular undertaking, it makes them question their capabilities. This could reduce the feeling of self-esteem and confidence they have in themselves. Others may also feel that ADD patients cannot be relied upon to complete projects as at when due, further worsening the situation.

These are just a few ways that ADD negatively affects the everyday life of those suffering from the condition. In short, yes: ADD is a serious issue and can affect the quality of life of a patient. The good news is that accurate diagnosis, management, as well as appropriate Attention Deficit Disorder treatment in Miami can greatly improve the symptoms and manifestations of the latter. You do not need to live an unsatisfactory or unhappy life, incapable of creating deep and meaningful relationships with those you care about or underachieve in your chosen career or profession. If you would like to meet with a qualified physician to discuss your Attention Deficit Disorder treatment in Miami and see if Adderall prescription can help, please schedule an appointment at our ADD/ADHD Miami clinic by calling (305) 776-2898.