Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a medical condition that is common among children but it can continue through teenage years and adulthood. This condition is often misinterpreted as bad behavior. But, attention deficit hyperactive disorder is actually condition that affects part of the brain responsible for attention and activity. A person with ADHD may be too active or too impulsive, and has difficulty in paying attention and focusing. If your child is restless and behaves badly, it doesn’t mean it has attention deficit hyperactive disorder but to be sure you must take the child to qualified physician for a checkup. All children can be inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive but in attention deficit hyperactive disorder these behaviors occur more often and are more severe.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is more common in boys than in girls. Children with ADHD who are inattentive have several symptoms that confirm their condition. Children suffering from ADHD may have trouble paying attention and staying focused. Also, they get easily distracted. Additionally, these children may forget things, seem disorganized, frequently switch from one activity to another and have trouble following instructions. Symptoms of hyperactivity include restlessness, constant talking, difficulty sitting or standing still and difficulty completing tasks quietly. An impulsive child is impatient, often interrupts others and acts without thinking about consequences.
Causes of ADHDChildren that have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder do not produce sufficient chemicals in areas of the brain responsible for attention and activity. A child with low amount of neurotransmitter dopamine that stimulates the brain’s attention centers may exhibit symptoms of ADHD. It is believed that this condition can develop due to several factors. That includes genetics and environmental factors but there is also a possible link between consumption of certain food additives and increased activity.
Treatment of ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder cannot be cured but the treatment aims to manage the symptoms. The treatment includes medications and individual and family counseling. Medication used for improving focus and attention as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsiveness are called stimulants although they have calming effect on children. Commonly used drugs for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder include Methylphenitade, dextroamphetamine, atomoxetine and amphetamine. However, a child that is treated with these medications must be carefully monitored to alter the dosage if needed and checked for signs and symptoms of potential side effects of the medicines. Apart from medications, ADHD can be treated with psychotherapy, particularly behavioral therapy that aims to help a child change its behavior.
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