Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common behavioral disorder affecting children during early childhood. However, research shows that people of all ages may suffer from the condition. ADHD is considered to be a neurobehavioral developmental disorder. For an effective therapeutic treatment, it is essential to understand its causes, common symptoms, diagnoses and available treatment options.
Table of Contents
How to Tell if You Have ADHD
Overview
A person suffering from ADHD cannot focus on anything without being distracted. The person cannot control basic activities of speech and action. A person always feels impulsive and restless. For the symptoms of overactivity and difficulty in concentrating, healthcare professionals call it an attention deficit disorder (ADD), hyperkinetic disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or simply hyperactivity.
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ADHD Types
ADHD is a mental disorder that can be linked to the genetic traits of a person. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ADHD can primarily be of three types depending on the most predominant ADHD symptoms.
Predominantly Inattentive Type
People suffering from this type of ADHD find it extremely difficult to organize or complete a task. Such people cannot pay attention to details. It is difficult for them to follow instructions or comprehend conversations.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
The people with this type of ADHD find it difficult to keep still. They talk a lot and fidget frequently. They are impulsive, restless, and could not follow directions. They grab things, interrupt others, and speak at inappropriate times. They are more prone to injuries and accidents. A smaller child suffering from this condition may keep on jumping, climbing, or running.
Combined Type
The people with this type of ADHD show symptoms of both previous types equally predominantly. General ADHD symptoms include restlessness, overactivity, constant chattering, continuously interrupting people, difficulty concentrating, inattentiveness, difficulty waiting in line, during play, or in conversations.
ADHD Causes
Common causes include genetic inheritance, biology, and chemical imbalance in the brain. Some addictive food colorings may trigger ADHD behaviors. An exposure to mercury during pregnancy may pose higher-risks of ADHD in the offspring. Consumption of fish during pregnancy may reduce the risk.
Diagnosis
It is difficult to diagnose ADHD physically via a urine test, blood test, physical checkup or brain scan. During an ADHD diagnosis, the specialist observes the child to recognize behavioral patterns. Data is collected regarding the behavior of the child at school and at home. After proper diagnosis, the specialist can accurately interpret if the conditions may result in the behavioral characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis with electroencephalogram (EEG)
An EEG can help doctors in accurately diagnosing ADHD in children. An EEG along with other patient-specific clinical information can help healthcare providers in accurately determining if ADHD is caused by a behavioral problem.
Duration
ADHD may occur during early childhood before the age of 7. In about 75% cases, the symptoms of ADHD sufferers may continue during adulthood. However, the levels of hyperactivity may decrease with age.
Common ADHD Medications and Treatment
Medications that are used commonly for treating ADHD include Amphetamines and Methylphenidates. Regular physical exercise can remarkably improve the symptoms of ADHD. Extra iron intake by the low-birth infants can reduce the risk of ADHD.
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