ADHD is the abbreviation for attention deficit hyperactive disorder. It is a mental disorder that is usually first seen in childhood. As the name suggests, its main characteristics include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and a tendency to impulsivity. The condition is fairly common but tends to resolve spontaneously in a majority of the affected children. If they have been diagnosed with ADHD Dallas residents need to understand a number of things on the condition.
The cause remains obscure but there are a number of theories that have been develop to explain its origin. The first of the theories claims that the condition is caused by a shrinkage in brain size while a child is still developing in the womb. The proponents claim that such children have the symptoms due to a frontal lobe that is smaller than the average. The second theory claims that the symptoms are due to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain.
Persons that are hyperactive tend to talk a lot. Children exhibit hyperactivity by being unable to accomplish tasks that require them to be momentarily silent and immobile or do so with marked difficulty. Impulsivity is characterized by a high degree of impatience. The individual frequently interrupts activities and conversations. Other features include difficulties in anger management, poor control of motor functions and poor language development.
The condition is classified into three main sub-types depending on the predominant symptomatic pattern. If all the symptoms are seen in equal measure then the type is known as the combined type. If the predominant feature is inattention without the other two, then it will be referred to as the inattentive type. This type was previously known as attention-deficit disorder. The third type is mainly characterized by hyperactivity and impulsivity but inattentiveness is absent.
If one has a child that has suggestive symptoms, it is important that they take them to their GP or psychiatrist for a definitive diagnosis to be made. The first thing that will be done is to observe the child for 6 months to establish whether the symptoms are persistent. The problem should have started between the ages of 6 and 12 years for the diagnostic criteria to be met.
ADHD is commoner in boys than girls due to reasons that are not clearly understood. About a third of childhood cases progress into adulthood. The symptoms seen in adulthood are slightly different to those seen in children. For instance, instead of impulsivity and hyperactivity, the adult will be constantly restless. They also have huge problems in developing interpersonal relationships and maintaining them.
Treatment is mainly through the administration of drugs or through psychotherapy. The common practice is to combine both options so as to increase the chances of succeeding. Stimulants are the main group of drugs. Although these drugs are highly effective, they have a potential for addiction and abuse. Additionally, they may cause psychosis if given to preschool children. Such children may benefit from behavioral therapy.
Persons living with ADHD can lead a near normal life as long as their problem is identified in time and managed. Apart from having regular psychotherapy sessions and being on stimulants, they also need a strong social support structure at home, in school and in the work place when they grow into adults. Children should be accorded special attention to help them learn better due to their short concentration span.
The cause remains obscure but there are a number of theories that have been develop to explain its origin. The first of the theories claims that the condition is caused by a shrinkage in brain size while a child is still developing in the womb. The proponents claim that such children have the symptoms due to a frontal lobe that is smaller than the average. The second theory claims that the symptoms are due to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain.
Persons that are hyperactive tend to talk a lot. Children exhibit hyperactivity by being unable to accomplish tasks that require them to be momentarily silent and immobile or do so with marked difficulty. Impulsivity is characterized by a high degree of impatience. The individual frequently interrupts activities and conversations. Other features include difficulties in anger management, poor control of motor functions and poor language development.
The condition is classified into three main sub-types depending on the predominant symptomatic pattern. If all the symptoms are seen in equal measure then the type is known as the combined type. If the predominant feature is inattention without the other two, then it will be referred to as the inattentive type. This type was previously known as attention-deficit disorder. The third type is mainly characterized by hyperactivity and impulsivity but inattentiveness is absent.
If one has a child that has suggestive symptoms, it is important that they take them to their GP or psychiatrist for a definitive diagnosis to be made. The first thing that will be done is to observe the child for 6 months to establish whether the symptoms are persistent. The problem should have started between the ages of 6 and 12 years for the diagnostic criteria to be met.
ADHD is commoner in boys than girls due to reasons that are not clearly understood. About a third of childhood cases progress into adulthood. The symptoms seen in adulthood are slightly different to those seen in children. For instance, instead of impulsivity and hyperactivity, the adult will be constantly restless. They also have huge problems in developing interpersonal relationships and maintaining them.
Treatment is mainly through the administration of drugs or through psychotherapy. The common practice is to combine both options so as to increase the chances of succeeding. Stimulants are the main group of drugs. Although these drugs are highly effective, they have a potential for addiction and abuse. Additionally, they may cause psychosis if given to preschool children. Such children may benefit from behavioral therapy.
Persons living with ADHD can lead a near normal life as long as their problem is identified in time and managed. Apart from having regular psychotherapy sessions and being on stimulants, they also need a strong social support structure at home, in school and in the work place when they grow into adults. Children should be accorded special attention to help them learn better due to their short concentration span.
About the Author:
If you are looking for information about ADHD Dallas locals can go to our web pages online here today. Additional details are available at http://www.familycareclinicforadhd.com now.
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét