Is ADHD the correct diagnosis: Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and lookalike conditions
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) a neurodivergent condition which is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. But sometimes these same symptoms can point to something else entirely. There are several conditions that can mimic ADHD, and really need to be ruled out before confirming an ADHD diagnosis. Let's look deeper at ADHD and some conditions that present similarly.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
The classic symptoms of ADHD are well known as:
Inattention: Difficulty focusing, easily distracted, forgetting instructions.
Hyperactivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, excessive talking, difficulty staying seated.
Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting conversations, blurting out answers.
Conditions with Overlapping Symptoms to ADHD
Iron Deficiency
Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, pale skin, restless legs, insomnia, and hyperactivity are common symptoms of iron deficiency in children.
Iron is crucial for brain function and deficiency can lead to symptoms that appear similar to ADHD.
Iron deficiency can be diagnosed by blood test and should be ruled out before ADHD diagnosis.
Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid disorders can present in children as well as adults. These can be a result of nutrient deficiencies, autoimmunity, or genetics.
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can slow down brain function, mimicking ADHD symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, behavioural issues, and mood swings.
Blood tests can assess thyroid hormone levels and diagnose thyroid disorders.
Pyrrole Disorder
Pyrrole disorder, also known as Mauve factor, is characterised by elevated levels of pyrroles in the urine, which are byproducts of haemoglobin production. Pyrroles bind to nutrients zinc and B6 causing depletion.
This metabolic abnormality condition involves can affect brain function and lead to ADHD-like symptoms including mood swings, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, poor sleep.
Urine tests by functional pathology laboratories can detect Pyrrole disorder.
Food Sensitivities
Non IgE food intolerances are immune responses to certain foods. These cause an inflammatory reaction, which can present as digestive issues, skin reactions, immune response and neuroinflammation
Food sensitivities that trigger neuroinflammation can lead to behavioural changes that resemble ADHD and symptoms including headaches, fatigue, hyperactivity, and difficulty concentrating.
Elimination diets and food challenges are the best way to identify sensitivities. There are some testing options, but they are not always accurate.
PANS/PANDAS
Paediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Paediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS) are neuroinflammatory conditions triggered by a viral or bacterial infection – streptococcal infection in the case of PANDAS. This syndrome causes a sudden onset of OCD behaviours, anxiety, extremely fussy eating, tics, irritability, sleep disturbances, aggression, and rage.
PANS and PANDAS can trigger behavioural changes that look remarkably similar to ADHD.
Clinical evaluation and sometimes blood tests are used for diagnosis.
Why is it important to consider other conditions before confirming an ADHD diagnosis?
ADHD is a clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and clinical assessment only. Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment with ADHD medications, which might not be effective or even worsen symptoms in some cases. Approximately 30% of those with an ADHD diagnosis don’t experience benefits from medication, and many choose to combine medication with naturopathic supplements safely under the supervision of a naturopath.
Don't be afraid to ask questions and explore potential explanations for your symptoms or your child's symptoms. Whether you’re at the start of considering a diagnosis or have a confirmed diagnosis but feel that there could be something more going on, a naturopath can help you rule out conditions mimicking ADHD symptoms and provide support to improve quality of life.
To find out more about how naturopathic support can benefit neurodivergent people, particularly those with ADHD and Autism, you can view my free webinar on Neuroaffirming Care
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