Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as hyperactivity or attention deficit disorder (ADD), is a common condition in children.
Children with ADHD generally have problems paying attention or concentrating, can't seem to follow directions, and are easily bored and/or frustrated with tasks. They also tend to move constantly and are impulsive (do not think before they act). Although these behaviors are common in children, they occur more often than usual and are more severe in a child with ADHD. These behaviors interfere with the child's ability to function at school and at home.
What Are the Symptoms of ADHD?
Symptoms of ADHD are generally grouped into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Inattention
- Is easily distracted
- Does not follow directions or finish tasks
- Does not appear to be listening when someone is speaking
- Does not pay attention and makes careless mistakes
- Is forgetful about daily activities
- Has problems organizing daily tasks
- Avoids or dislikes activities that require sitting still or a sustained effort
- Often loses things, including personal items
- Has a tendency to daydream
Hyperactivity
- Often squirms, fidgets or bounces when sitting
- Does not stay seated as expected
- Has difficulty playing quietly
- Is always moving, such as running or climbing on things (In teens and adults, this is more commonly described as a sense of restlessness.)
- Talks excessively
Impulsivity
- Has difficulty waiting for his or her turn
- Blurts out answers before the question has been completed
- Often interrupts others
What Causes ADHD?
The exact cause of ADHD is not known, although researchers continue to study the brain for clues. Researchers suspect that there are several factors that may contribute to the condition, including:
- Heredity: The fact that ADHD tends to run in families suggests that children may inherit a tendency to develop ADHD from their parents.
- Chemical imbalance: Experts believe an imbalance of the chemicals that help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other, called neurotransmitters, may be a factor in the development of symptoms.
- Brain changes: Areas of the brain that control attention are less active in children with ADHD than in children without the disorder.
The following are other factors that may contribute to the development of ADHD or that may trigger symptoms:
- Poor nutrition, infections and substance abuse (including cigarette and alcohol use) during pregnancy may be contributing factors, since they can affect the development of the baby's brain.
- Exposure to toxins, such as lead, in early childhood can also affect brain development and may lead to ADHD symptoms.
- Injury to the brain or a brain disorder may trigger ADHD symptoms.
It is important to note that eating too much sugar on the part of the child does not cause ADHD; however, a proper diet is essential for normal development in children. ADHD is also not caused by watching too much TV, a poor home life, poor schools or food allergies.
How Common Is ADHD?
ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder of children. It is estimated to affect 3%-5% of children (nearly 2 million American children), and is more common in boys than in girls. It most often is discovered during the early school years, when a child begins to have problems paying attention. ADHD can continue into the teen years and adulthood.
How Is ADHD Diagnosed?
If symptoms are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical examination. Although there are no laboratory tests for ADHD, the doctor may use various tests -- such as X-rays and blood tests -- to determine if there is a physical disorder causing the symptoms.
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