Navigating The Challenges Of Temporal Lobe ADHD

Temporal lobe ADHD (previously potentially known as temporal lobe ADD) is a type of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affecting the temporal lobes of the brain, which are generally located behind the temples. This area typically contains the primary auditory cortex and is responsible for several functions, such as the processing of emotions, sensory information, and auditory information. The temporal lobes can also be involved in long-term and verbal memory, language comprehension, and speech. 

This type of ADHD is based on the work of Dr. Daniel Amen. It is not currently corroborated by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) by the American Psychiatric Association. 

Symptoms of this disorder can be highly disruptive to a person's life, potentially harming relationships and, in severe cases, interfering with one’s ability to function independently. However, temporal lobe ADHD can be treatable with proper medical and psychological intervention, potentially including behavioral therapy, support groups, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.

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Seven types of ADHD

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) officially recognizes and provides diagnostic criteria for three types of ADHD: predominately inattentive type, predominately hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type. 

The seven types of ADHD, according to Dr. Amen, can include the following:

• Classic ADHD: This type generally includes the three core symptoms associated with classic cases of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. 
• Inattentive ADHD: This type of ADHD may be primarily characterized by distractibility, disorganization, and procrastination.
• Overfocused ADHD: Symptoms of this type of ADHD can include a compulsive, prolonged focus on a task or activity (often referred to as hyperattention).
• Temporal lobe ADHD: People with temporal lobe ADHD can be quick-tempered and aggressive. They might also have mild paranoia, notably dark thoughts about dying and death, and unexplained headaches or abdominal pain.
• Limbic ADHD: Individuals with this type of ADHD often have classic symptoms but also experience chronic sadness, feelings of guilt, and persistent feelings of hopelessness.
• Ring of fire ADHD: Ring of fire ADD (ADHD) is thought to get its name from the ringlike pattern observed on brain imaging scans of some people with the disorder. The pattern typically indicates overactivity, which also tends to be the primary behavioral symptom. 
• Anxious ADHD: The classic core symptoms are typically present in people with this type of ADHD, but these individuals might also experience heightened tension and anxiety. Additional symptoms of stress might include digestive issues, headaches, and sleep dysfunction.

Diagnosis: Brain imaging of the prefrontal cortex and temporal lobe

Symptoms of temporal lobe ADHD can be associated with the functioning of the temporal lobes and prefrontal cortex activity of the brain. When individuals display symptoms, doctors may conduct brain imaging techniques like single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scans to look for low temporal lobe activity plus low prefrontal cortex activity during tasks that require focus and concentration. These types of scans are sometimes used to detect many types of ADHD activity in the brain, although updated research may be necessary.

In addition to neuroimaging, recent research has also raised the possibility of diagnosing ADHD using specific biomarkers found in body fluids, genetics, and physiological responses to specialized tests. However, patterns in brain activity and the presence of biomarkers aren't usually meant to diagnose ADHD on their own. Testing, psychiatric evaluation, and DSM-5 guidelines are usually also required to reach a proper diagnosis.

Symptoms and causes 

Temporal lobe ADHD symptoms can be challenging in many ways. Individuals with these symptoms may struggle with productivity at school or work, difficulties in social settings, and problems establishing and maintaining relationships. Temporal lobe ADHD typically presents core symptoms that some other types display, such as those listed below:

• Distractibility when engaged in everyday tasks like school or work assignments, chores, etc.
• Problems with organization and time management
• Forgetfulness, such as frequently losing or misplacing items or forgetting to keep appointments
• Impulse control problems
• Excessive talking or frequently interrupting others during a conversation

Is temporal lobe ADHD the same as attention-deficit disorder (ADD)? 

In previous versions of the DSM, ADHD may have been diagnosed under the ADD subtype. However, in the DSM-5, this subtype is no longer diagnosed. Instead, someone might be diagnosed with the primarily inattentive type of ADHD. Temporal lobe ADHD differs from ADHD-PI because it also involves the following symptoms: 

• Memory problems
• Struggles with reading
• Dark or persistently negative thoughts
• Paranoia, panic, or fear without direct cause
• Mood instability
• Misunderstanding others' comments or behaviors
• Impaired sense of smell
• Compromised mental capacity
• Auditory processing difficulties
• Confusion or a tendency to “space out”
• Headaches
• Abdominal pain
• Anger, irritability, or defiance toward authority figures

How the challenges of temporal lobe ADHD affect a person

Temporal lobe ADHD symptoms can be particularly difficult to manage, often taking a severe toll on the individual's cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. 

For example, because abnormal activity or dysfunctional connectivity in the temporal lobes can impact auditory and visual sensory processing, people with this type of ADHD may experience challenges like dyslexia, impaired language processing, or poor reading comprehension. These difficulties may impair an individual's ability to interpret, focus on, and engage in everyday tasks, such as schoolwork, work projects, and chores at home.

Challenges of temporal lobe ADHD and memory in people with ADHD (previously ADD)

The temporal lobes also tend to be associated with memory and, when damaged, can contribute to problems with short- and long-term memory. Misprocessing information can also raise significant challenges with social interaction. When the temporal lobes are affected, social cues and conversations can be misinterpreted as hostile or threatening, possibly leading to emotionally overreactive behavior. People with such challenges may find themselves socially ostracized, potentially resulting in isolation, low self-esteem, and depression. 

ADHD, including the theorized temporal lobe type, is often associated with other conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Research also shows that individuals with ADHD, particularly teens, tend to be more likely to engage in alcohol and substance misuse (the term “drug abuse” is no longer used). 

While the exact cause of ADHD isn't yet fully understood, temporal lobe ADHD is often associated with head injury, inflammation, or neurological conditions that impair brain function in the temporal lobes. Heredity and genetics are also possible causes of ADHD. Findings suggest that children with ADHD usually have a one in four chance of having a parent with ADHD.   

Treatment options for ADHD

There isn't necessarily a treatment tailored specifically to temporal lobe ADHD. The condition is generally treated in the same way as other forms of ADHD, with a combination of behavioral interventions, psychoeducation, and doctor-prescribed medications. In some cases, noninvasive brain stimulation techniques can be used to neutralize temporal lobe irregularities. 

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavior modification, can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. These therapies usually aim to teach individuals skills to cope with challenges and improve their focus and impulse control.

Though it may not be the right approach for everyone, online therapy can be an excellent option for many because it offers increased access to licensed therapists specializing in diagnosing and treating different types of ADHD. In virtual therapy, individuals can attend sessions from the comfort of their own homes, potentially reducing the stress associated with traveling to a physical location. This accessibility can make attending sessions easier for people with ADHD who may struggle with organization and time management. 

Online therapy may be more affordable than in-person therapy without insurance, and ongoing research consistently shows it can be as effective as traditional therapy for treating ADHD and comorbid conditions that can be associated with it.

Psychoeducation

Learning about ADHD and understanding its impact on daily life can empower individuals to better manage their symptoms. Psychoeducation usually involves educating individuals and their families about the nature of ADHD and providing strategies for coping.

Medication

Doctors and psychiatrists may prescribe medication to individuals with ADHD on a case-by-case basis. Never start, stop, or change the way you take medication without consulting your doctor.

The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medication or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. Do not take any action (including starting, stopping, or changing medication) without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Some research indicates that repetitive TMS (rTMS) applied to the right prefrontal cortex (rPFT) can alter abnormal activity in the area associated with ADHD. Although the treatment appears to work for some, the study results are still relatively inconclusive.

Environmental modifications

Making adjustments to an individual’s environment can also be beneficial. This process may include creating a structured routine, minimizing distractions, and providing organizational tools.

Are ADHD symptoms impacting your daily life?

Connect with an online therapist for support

Support groups for people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Joining support or therapy groups for individuals with ADHD can provide a sense of community and shared experiences. Doing so may also offer practical tips and emotional support.

Natural supplements

There may currently be a lack of research on treating ADHD using natural supplements. However, some studies suggest a combination of natural remedies and pharmacological treatments may help some people manage their symptoms. Still, the data yielded from these studies is still incomplete. Consult your physician if you’re considering adding any type of nutritional supplement or botanical agent to your daily regimen.