attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and adulthood.

Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the key behaviors of ADHD. It is normal for all children to be inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive sometimes, but for children with ADHD, these behaviors are more severe and occur more often. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a child must have symptoms for 6 or more months and to a degree that is greater than other children of the same age.

1).Children who have symptoms of inattention may:
-Be easily distracted, miss details, forget things, and frequently switch from one activity to another
-Become bored with a task after only a few minutes, unless they are doing something enjoyable
-Have trouble completing or turning in homework assignments, often losing things (e.g., pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities
-Not seem to listen when spoken to
-Daydream, become easily confused, and move slowly
-Have difficulty processing information as quickly and accurately as others
-Struggle to follow instructions.

2).Children who have symptoms of hyperactivity may:
-Fidget and squirm in their seats
-Talk nonstop
-Dash around, touching or playing with anything and everything in sight
-Have trouble sitting still during dinner, school, and story time

3).Children who have symptoms of impulsivity may:
-Be very impatient
-Blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without regard for consequences
-Have difficulty waiting for things they want or waiting their turns in games
Often interrupt conversations or others' activities.

Causes:
ADHD probably results from a combination of factors. In addition to genetics, researchers are looking at possible environmental factors, and are studying how brain injuries, nutrition, and the social environment might contribute to ADHD.

Medications
The most common type of medication used for treating ADHD is called a "stimulant." Although it may seem unusual to treat ADHD with a medication considered a stimulant, it actually has a calming effect on children with ADHD. A few other ADHD medications are non-stimulants and work differently than stimulants. For many children, ADHD medications reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve their ability to focus, work, and learn. Medication also may improve physical coordination.
Adding behavioral therapy, counseling, and practical support can help children with ADHD and their families to better cope with everyday problems.

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