ADHD often hides in other illnesses and frequently left untreated
I found in my practice as a family physician more than 10 years that ADHD diagnosis hides behind other medical problem and it is extremely difficult to make the diagnosis and to provide early treatment . I have seen many families go through series of consultation with specialist and how the diagnosis has been delayed or missed.Rarely will a patient will see the symptom or present to the doctors . It is very important to give value to the family's opinion and I have seen that family's opinion is a great source to make the diagnosis.
When physicians see recurring infections, we check for diabetes. But when we see recurring accidents we don't think of ADHD — so we miss the ADHD diagnosis and worse the patient misses the opportunity to be treated for ADHD and the problems it leads to medically, financially, socially and emotionally.
ADHD is associated with boredom eating, obesity and its complications — hypertension, diabetes, cardiac issues and more. And the inattentive ADHD that is common in women is a frequent cause of obesity.
The smoking rate among those with ADHD is twice that of those without the condition. Why? Nicotine turns on the bored brain and relieves its discomfort. We know what smoking causes bronchitis, pneumonia, hypertension and lung cancer
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) — sometimes referred to as “ADHD at Night” — is a subconscious way to satisfy a bored, hyperactive brain asked to lie still in a silent room with lights off and eyes shut. So, your brain compels you to roll around, move your legs, toss and turn — and not sleep deeply. However, neurologists don't list ADHD among causes of RLS.
Insomnia is common in those who have ADHD. But for them, it would be more appropriate to refer to it as “Restless Brain Syndrome.” The brain revs up to combat the lack of sensory input, leading to insomnia. Rather than prescribe a sleeping pill, we should treat the ADHD instead.
Fibromyalgia can also be tied to ADHD. Brains in people with ADHD run at night, protecting their owners from deadly boredom. But a running brain doesn't allow the deeper, restorative sleep we need. Muscles never loosen and trigger points form. ADHD is always there so the sleep defect stays, as do the aching trigger points. Rheumatologist diagnoses fibromyalgia though many of these patients have undiagnosed ADHD
How many unplanned pregnancies result from forgotten condoms, missed birth-control pills and plain impulsivity? I have seen all these problem are very common in ADHD patients.
For a moment, forget ADHD's classic signs: Hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. Instead, seek ADHD hiding in medical conditions — and the medical conditions hiding in ADHD. Let's aim for reduced disease, better sleep, fewer accidents, less pain, less sick time, lower blood pressure, cleaner lungs and even reduced health costs.
