What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition diagnosed in children who display symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsivity. Although its causes are not fully understood, factors including genetics and antenatal problems are thought to play a role.[1]
Treatment for the condition will generally involve a team of professionals experienced in child development and ADHD specifically. It may encompass parent training and the setting of stricter boundaries at home, as well as behavioral therapy and medication. With adequate support, children with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms effectively.
Symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The symptoms of ADHD may first be recognized by a parent, teacher, or caregiver. They can in some cases be difficult to distinguish from age-appropriate energetics and/or misbehavior.
The core symptoms are persistent hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsivity. These behaviors should be displayed in more than one setting – for example, at home and at school – and during more than one activity – for example, when doing schoolwork and when going to bed.
To be classed as ADHD, the symptoms must:[1]
- First appear before the age of 12
- Occur in more than one setting
- Occur for at least six months
- Interfere with social, academic and/or occupational activities
- Be unrelated to any other condition or disorder that the child may have
The symptoms of ADHD tend to vary from child to child. There are, however, three key subtypes that most cases will fit into.[1][2]
- Hyperactive-impulsive subtype: Hyperactivity and impulsivity commonly occur together in young children with ADHD. This may mean that a child feels the need to move around constantly, talk a lot and may struggle with controlling their impulses.
- Inattention subtype: The main features of this subtype are difficulty paying attention and reduced cognitive ability. This may mean that a child is easily distracted, struggles to take in and follow instructions, and is forgetful. The symptoms of inattention will typically not become apparent until a child is eight or nine years old.[3]
- Combined subtype: Children with this subtype will display features of both the hyperactive and inattention subtypes.
Hyperactivity in children with ADHD tends to fade after the age of eight or nine and may be difficult to detect to outside observers from then on. Adolescents, however, may still experience restlessness or find it difficult to settle down. Symptoms of impulsivity and inattention tend to persist throughout a person’s life, although inattention may not be detectable until the age of eight or nine. .
Causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood by medical professionals, though a number of factors are believed to play a role.
Factors that are thought to contribute to ADHD include:[1][3][4][5]
- Brain function and structure: Research suggests that there are small differences in the brains of people with ADHD compared with the brains of people without the condition. The significance of this is not yet clear.
- Genetics: Research suggests that a child is more likely to develop ADHD if a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, also has the condition.
- Learning issues: While learning issues do not cause ADHD, children with conditions such as dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia are more likely to also experience ADHD.
- Antenatal problems: If a mother smokes, drinks alcohol or takes drugs during pregnancy, this may increase the likelihood of the child having ADHD.
- Birth problems: If a child is born with a low birth weight, is deprived of oxygen during birth or experiences any other kind of issue during birth, this may increase their chance of developing ADHD.
One or more of these factors may apply to a child with ADHD. Conversely, none of these factors may apply and there may be no clear cause of the condition.
Diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The diagnosis is usually made by a specialist pediatric doctor with experience in child development. There is no special test for ADHD; instead, a diagnosis will be based on the symptoms displayed and through observation of the child’s interactions with their parents, siblings, and, if possible, teachers and classmates.
Seeking a formal diagnosis is important because it enables families and teachers to coordinate plans for managing behavior and education..
Treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The way in which a child with ADHD is treated will depend on the severity of the condition as well as the age of the child. Treatment should be coordinated by a team of professionals, including pediatricians, ADHD specialists, and behavioral therapists.
The condition cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed. The first stage of treatment will usually involve referral to a parent-training program. The aim of this kind of training is to teach parents ways to manage behavioral problems, to understand the condition more thoroughly, and to communicate more effectively with their child. These methods may also need to be taught to teachers and other caregivers, so activities can be tailored to suit the child’s attention span.[1]
Other treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a method of psychological training that can help a child to understand why they act as they do and to come up with strategies to help manage their condition.
All children, including those with ADHD, are recommended to get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity activity per day. Regular physical activity is associated with improved cardiovascular health, mental wellbeing, and cognitive performance.
Medication can also be prescribed to help treat ADHD in children over the age of six. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine released into the parts of the brain responsible for attention and self-control. A child may need to take medication for a number of years.[1]
Medication is generally prescribed in severe cases of ADHD or in milder cases when other treatment options have not been effective. When used in children, ADHD medications are not thought to have addictive potential. They can, however, cause side effects.
Possible side-effects of methylphenidate include:[6]
- A slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate
- Loss of appetite
- Sleeping problems
- Headaches
- Stomach aches
- Mood swings
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults
According to studies, an estimated 40 to 60 percent of children with ADHD will continue to experience the condition into adulthood.[7] As a development disorder, however, it is thought that people cannot develop the condition for the first time as adults, though it may only be recognized and/or diagnosed for the first time once a person has reached adulthood.[4] Indeed, the rate of adults being diagnosed with ADHD is thought to be increasing significantly.[8]
The symptoms and behaviors associated with ADHD in adults typically differ from those present in childhood. For adults, hyperactivity may manifest as persistent restlessness and inattention as an inability to focus and carry out daily tasks. Adults with ADHD may find that the condition affects their ability to maintain employment and take care of their responsibilities; it may also result in financial and interpersonal difficulties.[7]
Similar to children, adults with ADHD are likely to be treated for the condition using a combination of medications and psychotherapy. Commonly prescribed medications include methylphenidate and amphetamine, while psychotherapy will usually focus on cognitive behavioral therapy.[7]
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) FAQs
Other names for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- ADHD
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
- Hyperkinetic disorder
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UpToDate. “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: Clinical features and diagnosis.” February 27, 2018. Accessed July 11, 2018. ↩ ↩
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NHS Choices. “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).” May 30, 2018. Accessed July 11, 2018. ↩ ↩
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Understood. “What Causes ADHD?” Accessed July 11, 2018. ↩
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NHS Choices. “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Treatment.” May 30, 2018. Accessed July 17, 2018. ↩
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NCBI. “Adult Attention Deficit–Hyperactivity Disorder.” November 14, 2013. Accessed August 30, 2018. ↩ ↩ ↩
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NCBI. “Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults.” September, 2007. Accessed August 30, 2018. ↩
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NCBI. “The Co-Occurrence of Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children – What Do We Know?” 2014. August 30, 2018. ↩
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NHS Choices. “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms.” May 30, 2018. Accessed August 30, 2018. ↩
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NCBI. “Methylphenidate Abuse and Psychiatric Side Effects.” October, 2000. Accessed August 3, 2018. ↩ ↩
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**Q1. What is ADHD?**
**A:** Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It typically begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood.
**Q2. What are the symptoms of ADHD?**
**A:** **Inattention:**
* Easily distracted and unable to focus
* Difficulty following instructions
* Forgetful and disorganized
**Hyperactivity:**
* Restless and fidgety
* Excessive talking and interrupting
* Impulsivity:<
* Acting without thinking
* Difficulty waiting for turns
* Interfering with others
**Q3. What causes ADHD?**
**A:** The exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
* Genetics
* Brain chemistry
* Environmental factors such as diet, sleep, and stress
**Q4. How is ADHD diagnosed?**
**A:** ADHD is diagnosed by a mental health professional based on a comprehensive assessment, which includes:
* Detailed interview with the individual and their caregivers
* Observation of behavior
* Review of the individual’s medical and educational history
**Q5. What are the treatments for ADHD?**
**A:** The most common treatments for ADHD are:
* Medication (stimulants or nonstimulants)
* Behavioral therapy (such as cognitive behavioral therapy or parent training)
* Education and support groups
**Q6. What is the long-term outlook for people with ADHD?**
**A:** With proper treatment and support, people with ADHD can lead full and productive lives. However, it’s important to note that ADHD can have a range of long-term effects, including:
* Difficulties in school and work
* Relationship challenges
* Higher risk of depression and anxiety
* Substance abuse
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate emotions.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate emotions.