ADHD: What Is It?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD) is a condition that robs children of their ability to focus and
pay attention. Kids with ADHD are fidgety and easily distracted. This
makes it difficult to stay "on task," whether it's listening to a
teacher or finishing a chore. A recent national study reported by the
CDC noted that 11% of school aged children are being diagnosed with
ADHD. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates 3% to 5% of kids
have ADHD, but some experts believe that figure could be as high as
10%.
ADHD Symptoms: Inattention
The main symptom of ADHD is the
inability to pay attention. Kids may have trouble listening to a
speaker, following directions, finishing tasks, or keeping track of
personal items. They may daydream often and make careless mistakes.
Children with ADHD tend to avoid activities that require sustained
concentration or that might be boring.
ADHD Symptoms: Hyperactivity
Another component of ADHD is the
inability to sit still. Children may run and climb on things
constantly, even when indoors. When they are seated, they tend to
squirm, fidget, or bounce. Some kids with ADHD talk excessively and find
it difficult to play quietly.
ADHD Symptoms: Impulsiveness
A third symptom is impulsiveness
-- cutting in line, interrupting others, or blurting out answers before
the teacher finishes a question. This aspect of ADHD makes it difficult
for children to wait their turn or think before they act.
ADHD's Impact on Daily Life
Without treatment, ADHD can
affect a child's development socially and academically. The inability to
focus often leads to poor performance in school. Kids who interrupt or
cut in line may have trouble making and keeping friends. These setbacks
can lead to low self-esteem and risky behaviors. ADHD also increases the
risk of childhood depression and anxiety disorders.
Causes of ADHD
Children with ADHD have less activity in areas
of the brain that control attention. They may also have imbalances in
brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. It's unclear what causes these
irregularities, but ADHD runs in families, so many experts believe
genetics play a role.
Diagnosing ADHD
There are no lab tests to detect ADHD.
Instead, doctors rely on the patient's response to questions, the
family's description of behavior problems, and a school assessment. With
ADHD, a child must display some combination of inattention,
hyperactivity, and impulsivity for at least six months to a degree that
is maladaptive and inconsistent with his or her age. Onset of the
symptoms needs to have appeared by age 12.
Medications for ADHD
Stimulant medications can help increase a
child's attention span while controlling hyperactivity and impulsive
behavior. Studies suggest these drugs work in 70% to 80% of patients,
although they may have some troubling side effects. Non-stimulant
medications are also options for some children.
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