Women With ADD - Symptoms and Diagnosis
For women with ADD, daily challenges continue throughout adulthood. Whether add in women test daydreams in class or has trouble managing household chores and obligations women with ADD often has a hard time meeting the demands of her family. The symptoms of ADD for women are different and opposite to those seen in men. This makes diagnosis and treatment difficult.
Symptoms
Women with ADD can find it difficult to keep a job and take care of household chores. This is especially true when hormonal changes occur, such as puberty, menopause, or PMS. Depression is not a symptom but it can be a co-symptom with ADD and is misdiagnosed if doctors look for symptoms that are more typical of men. Women with the hyperactive/impulsive subtype of ADD are impatient visibly or internally, jump into activities without thinking and speak and act impulsively. Small irritations, like waiting in line or on the phone can cause them to drift into the point of distraction. They also struggle with time management, forgetfulness and trouble concentrating on tasks. They may also be inclined to be irritable and sleep poor. They could be susceptible to depression and anxiety which are often misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder.
Diagnosis
Because women's symptoms of ADD are not as well-known as the men's, it can be difficult to diagnose. Doctors tend to concentrate on a set of symptoms that are more prevalent for boys, and overlook the subtleties when it comes to the symptoms of ADD in girls. This is particularly true during puberty, menopause or perimenopausal, as well as PMS, when estrogen levels decrease. Depression is also common in women suffering from ADD and must be treated. You will be able to better understand your symptoms and the underlying condition by reading a few books on ADHD/ADD before visiting an expert. You'll be more comfortable and confident during the diagnostic process.