Dr. Patricia Quinn Highlights Unique Health Risks of ADHD in Women
Dr. Patricia Quinn, a developmental pediatrician, has been focusing on the unique health risks and treatment approaches for women with ADHD. Historically, ADHD has been viewed as a condition primarily affecting boys, but recent research indicates that it manifests differently in girls and women. Women with ADHD often face delayed diagnoses, sometimes not until adulthood, due to symptoms that are less overt than in boys. These symptoms include being distracted and disorganized, which can lead to misdiagnoses of anxiety or depression. Dr. Quinn emphasizes that women with ADHD are at a higher risk for various health issues, including obesity, eating disorders, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. These risks are compounded by factors such as impulsivity, poor sleep, and chronic stress. Dr. Quinn advocates for a comprehensive treatment approach that includes medication, hormone replacement therapy for those in perimenopause, and cognitive behavioral therapy to address the psychological impacts of ADHD. 
