Info about Adhd
Getting to know Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder better
Does your child moves around more than the usual? Does your child has difficulty in sitting still? Does your child act without thinking first or does your child start but not finish things? If yes, your child may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. This type of disorder lasts more than 6 months and is more common in boys than in girls. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD makes it difficult for a child to keep focus and to stay patient.
The primary characteristics of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD are:
• Hyperactivity
• Inattention
• Impulsivity
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Other symptoms of children with ADHD are:
• Have trouble with directions
• Lose things such as toys, books and school supplies often
• Fidget and squirm a lot
• Non-stop talking
• Interrupts people
• Touch and play with everything they see
• Very impatient
• Trouble in controlling their emotions
The real and exact cause of ADHD is still unknown. It probably comes from a combination of some things. Some possible factors are genes, lead, smoking plus drinking during pregnancy, brain injuries and food additives, which can make hyperactivity worse. There is no simple test (like a blood test or x-ray) to diagnose Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. Accurate diagnosis can only be attained through extensive evaluation (includes thorough physical examination as well as series of interviews with the individual and other key persons in the individual’s life) by a trained clinician.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is commonly diagnosed in children but that does not necessarily mean an adult or teen cannot have this kind of disorder. Actually, ADHD is a lifespan disorder, which means, it can affect individuals at all ages. However, there are just few cases of adult and teen victims of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (only 2 to 4% of the adult population).
There are two basic types of ADHD treatment. First is through medication and second is through therapy. For medication, stimulants are commonly used. This helps a child focus more and stay calm but sometimes medications can cause side effects such as problem in sleeping and stomach aches. Therefore, it is crucial to see a doctor first for some guidance. For therapy, different types exist. One example is behavioural therapy. This therapy can help and teach a child to control his or her behaviour better. You may also use both medication and therapy, some children respond well when this two are combined.
A child who has this kind of disorder needs the most of both the parent’s guidance and understanding.