How ADHD Impacts Various Aspects of Well-Being and Lifestyle

Rami Azzouz is a Dalton, Georgia, physician who has treated patients at Bright Pediatrics for many years. One of the areas in which Rami Azzouz has in-depth knowledge is ADHD and its long-term effects on education and lifestyle.

Associated with inattentiveness and hyperactivity in social settings, the impact of ADHD goes beyond what many people realize. For example, those with ADHD may find it challenging to set limits on behavior such as eating. Because ADHD works to lower levels of dopamine, or the hormone associated with pleasure in the brain, one temporary way of elevating dopamine levels is to gorge on food. Related manifestations include the overuse of drugs and alcohol as one searches for a dopamine rush.

ADHD also impacts one’s lifestyle by generating a sense of anxiety. Chronic stress can result, along with related issues such as muscle tension and even heart, digestive, and lung issues. Other areas of increased risk include sleep apnea and snoring, as well as restless legs syndrome, or the urge to move legs while at rest. A disruption of the circadian rhythm can amplify these issues and make it challenging to develop a regular pattern of sleep and waking.

With these types of health issues also impacting school and on-the-job performance, the lifestyle consequences of untreated ADHD are often serious.