Can a Head Injury Cause Adult ADHD Symptoms

WHY POST-CONCUSSION ADHD IS OFTEN MISDIAGNOSED

One of the biggest challenges in addressing ADHD after traumatic brain injury is that many adults don’t connect their symptoms to a past injury. You may not think that falling off your bike, hitting your head on the steering wheel in a car accident, or repeatedly hitting soccer balls with your head could have lasting consequences. But they can.

Without knowing what to ask or share, it can be difficult for your doctor to see the connection at first. A concussion from years ago may seem unrelated to any current concentration issues, leading to misdiagnosis.

Traditional ADHD diagnostic methods rely on behavioral questionnaires. Most psychiatrists never look at the brain when making a diagnosis. This means that TBI-related ADHD symptoms are often mistaken for lifelong ADHD, anxiety, or even depression.

Another major distinction is that stimulant medications, commonly used to treat ADHD, don’t always work for those with TBI-induced attention problems. Since brain injuries affect blood flow and brain connectivity differently, treatments need to be tailored to the individual.

Related: 9 Frequently Asked Questions About ADD/ADHD

SIGNS THAT ADHD SYMPTOMS MAY BE RELATED TO A HEAD INJURY

If you’re wondering if ADHD symptoms may be related to past head trauma, here are some key questions to consider:

• Have you ever had a concussion or head injury, even a mild one?
• Did any focus, impulsivity, or emotional regulation issues begin after a head injury?
• Have you noticed worsening attention problems over time?

Brain imaging, particularly SPECT scans, can be a valuable tool in differentiating traditional ADHD from brain injury-related attention problems. Unlike standard brain scans, SPECT imaging shows blood flow and activity levels in different brain regions, revealing hidden injuries that could be causing ADHD-like symptoms.

If you suspect that your focus issues stem from a past head injury, working with a brain specialist who understands the link between brain injuries and ADHD is critical for getting the right diagnosis.

THE LONG-TERM IMPACT OF UNTREATED TBI-INDUCED ADHD

Ignoring ADHD symptoms caused by head trauma can have serious consequences. Studies show that untreated post-concussion ADD is linked to:

• Higher rates of anxiety and depression – Emotional dysregulation from TBIs can contribute to mental health challenges.
• Difficulties in work and relationships – Struggles with focus and impulsivity can impact career success and personal connections.
• Increased risk of substance abuse – Many people who struggle with untreated TBI-induced ADD symptoms often self-medicate to cope with attention deficits and emotional instability.
• Development of mood disorders – Research shows that people with post-concussion ADD symptoms have a higher likelihood of developing mood disorders, highlighting the importance of proper treatment.

HOW TO IMPROVE FOCUS AFTER A TBI

While the effects of head trauma can be frustrating, there are ways to support brain health and restore your focus.

• Brain-boosting nutrition – Anti-inflammatory foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants help repair brain cells. Research suggests that DHA, a key component of Omega-3s, improves cognitive function in individuals with TBIs.
• Exercise and movement – Physical activity increases blood flow to damaged brain areas and promotes healing. Studies show that moderate aerobic exercise improves cognitive function in TBI patients.
• Cognitive therapy and neurofeedback – Brain training exercises can help improve attention and impulse control.
• Supplements for brain recovery – Magnesium, B-complex vitamins, and GABA have been proven to support cognitive function and relaxation.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) – This noninvasive therapy has been shown to improve brain function in TBI patients by increasing oxygen supply to injured areas.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive brain regions involved in how concussions affect attention and impulse control as well as treatment of depression.

Implementing these strategies can help you mitigate mild head injury and focus issues. You can even use some of these to treat head trauma and ADHD symptoms in the long run.

Related: Neurofeedback: Natural ADD Treatment with Outstanding Results

NEXT STEPS: HOW TO GET THE RIGHT DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

If you suspect your ADHD symptoms are from a head injury, the next step is to seek a thorough brain-focused examination.

Unlike standard ADHD assessments that rely heavily on questionnaires, a comprehensive evaluation including brain SPECT imaging can help reveal hidden injuries. SPECT scans can reveal low cerebral blood flow and activity that may be contributing to other mental issues.

By taking a brain-based approach to ADHD symptoms, you can regain control of your focus, emotions, and brain health.