Adult ADD??

[petshopgal]

I have been told by several people that I have Adult ADD. I drink a lot of beer. If I do not drink I am bouncing off the walls. When I clean, I cannot finish one project before being distracted by another and moving on and on and on. My mind is constantly running on high. I am tired of drinking but feel crazy hyper without it. I am 51. I am hoping I can learn more about the onset of Adult ADD or could I possibly have had this for many years without my knowledge?? I have a VERY physical job and have worked 10+ hours a day for 23 years. Until an unnecessary hysterectomy 3 years ago I was OK with my extra energy and could deal with it fairly well. Now, with the major changes in my body, I am feeling crazy. My brain still goes and goes and goes. My body is no longer able to keep up with my brain and I am extremely uncomfortable, inside and out. I do not know if this makes sense!! Any advice? How is a person tested for Adult ADD?

[marileew]

You can go to your family doctor to ask about these symptoms and to inquire if you might have adult ADD. I went to my family doctor to get diagnosed.

[dkpoto]

ADHD does not begin in adulthood. Do you remember having the same racing brain when you were a child?

Do some research about the symptoms first. Dr. Amen created the most comprehensive symptom checklist. It helped me understand the condition before moving forward towards a diagnosis.

Alcohol is one of the many ways people with undiagnosed ADHD self-medicate. Many clinicians recommend Schedule II stimulants as a treatment option. While a prescription may be appropiate in your case, research the other methods for managing your symptoms. You cannot medicate-booze or stimulants-fore the rest of your life.

Best wishes.

www.adhd-information-exchange.com/ADHD-Symptom-Checklist.html

[petshopgal]

I can remember never being able to concentrate or focus well. I was smart in school, just had no 'stick to it ness'!! I was bored easily.
I know I cannot drink as a medication forever and I am, quite frankly, sick of it.
I'll check out the web site. Thank you!  

[allmymarbles]

Look for a physical cause. Are you hyperthyroid? Do you have high cortisol? The hysterectomy could have thrown your system out-of-whack. You might want to see a competent endocrinologist.

[petshopgal]

Just did the test on the site you mentioned. I scored 239 with 55 answers 3 & 4. I think I need to find a good doctor.