ADHD is a condition that affects about one in ten children. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can vary from person to person, and it is also not clear what causes it. However, it is thought that there are neurological and genetic factors involved.
Symptoms in Children
Most healthy children are naturally inattentive, hyperactive or impulsive at some point during their lives. They learn to pay attention, sit still, listen and wait with help from their parents and teachers. Some kids are better than others at these skills, but those with ADHD often have trouble with them.
Having these skills can make it easier for kids to get along with others and do well in school. But if your child is having difficulty with these skills, it may be time for them to see a doctor.
Inattention
This is one of the most common and important symptoms for kids with ADHD. It means that your child is unable to focus on what they are doing, follow directions and stay on task. It can lead to distraction and poor performance at school, which is why it is so important that your child gets a thorough evaluation.
Your doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms in detail, record them and perform a physical exam. They may use a checklist and rating scale to look for signs of ADHD.
They will also need information about your child’s schoolwork, social interaction and daily routine. They will need to know if they are having problems with homework, classroom behavior and other things that can be addressed through medication or therapy.
You and your child’s doctor will work together to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Your doctor may prescribe medication, therapy or a combination of the two. They will also work with you and your child to create a schedule for activities at home and at school.
Adults with ADHD
If you have milder symptoms of ADHD during childhood, they might be intensified in adulthood. Symptoms can include problems with schoolwork, lack of organization and being easily distracted.
Having ADHD can lead to problems at work and in relationships. It can also cause anxiety and depression.
Your doctor can prescribe medications that are used to treat ADHD. These medications increase the levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which play essential roles in thinking and attention. They are generally safe when taken as prescribed, but they can have side effects, especially if your doctor does not monitor how you respond to them.
They are also more likely to interact with other medicines you are taking. You need to tell your doctor if you have any other health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, or anxiety.
A person with ADHD may need to take a variety of medications over the course of their life. Some are stimulants and others may help with sleep, mood or appetite.
Having ADHD can have a huge impact on a person’s life. It can disrupt relationships and affect employment, which is why it’s so important to get diagnosed early.
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