Thursday, February 7, 2013

(ADHD) Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

ADHD is a problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination. Diagnosed as ADHD Because its more then the normal child's attributes.


Causes and risk factors:

ADHD may run in families, but it is not clear exactly what causes it. Whatever the cause may be, it seems to be set in motion early in life as the brain is developing. Imaging studies suggest that the brains of children with ADHD are different than other children.

ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of children. It affects about 3 - 6% of school aged children. ADHD is diagnosed most often in boys rather than girls.

Depression, lack of sleep, learning disabilities, tic disorders, and behavior problems may be confused with, or appear with, ADHD. Every child suspected of having ADHD should be carefully examined by a doctor to rule out possible other conditions or reasons for the behavior.

Most children with ADHD also have at least one other developmental or behavioral problem. They may also have a psychiatric problem, such as depression.


The symptoms of ADHD fall into three groups:

Lack of attention (inattentiveness), Hyperactivity, Impulsive behavior (impulsivity)


Some children with ADHD primarily have the inattentive type. Those with the inattentive type are less disruptive and are more likely to not be diagnosed with ADHD.

Inattentive symptoms

-Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.

-Has difficulty keeping attention during tasks or play.

-Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

-Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace

-Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

-Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort

- Often loses things needed for tasks or activities

-Is easily distracted

-Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity symptoms:

-Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat

-Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected

-Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations

-Has difficulty playing quietly

-Often talks excessively

Impulsivity symptoms:

-Blurts out answers before questions have been completed

-Has difficulty awaiting turn

-Interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations or games)


Too often, difficult children are incorrectly labeled with ADHD. On the other hand, many children who do have ADHD remain undiagnosed. In either case, related learning disabilities or mood problems are often missed. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued guidelines to bring more clarity to this issue.

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