| Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as | | | | researchers have found that it seems to have a |
| ADHD, is a widespread neurobehavioral disorder found | | | | genetic link. Other possible causes include brain |
| in both children and adults. ADHD is characterized by | | | | damage, environmental substances such as lead, |
| trouble paying attention, lack of impulse control, and | | | | alcohol and tobacco use by the mother during |
| being overly active. Diagnosis is usually made during | | | | pregnancy, premature birth and low birth weight. There |
| childhood but is now being found in some adults as | | | | are many other factors some parents believe may |
| well. | | | | have an effect on it, such as eating too much sugar or |
| From time to time all children have trouble paying | | | | watching too much television, but there is no scientific |
| attention. But children with ADHD do not outgrow this | | | | evidence to support this claim. |
| behavior. The problem often affects their behavior at | | | | There is no specific test for ADHD and a diagnosis is |
| school, home and with friends. A child with ADHD | | | | made thru a series of test to rule out things like hearing |
| might have trouble taking turns, interrupts a lot, | | | | problems, learning disabilities, vision problems, anxiety |
| daydreams, is easily distracted, speaks and acts | | | | and depression. Since the symptoms for ADHD are |
| without thinking, talks too much, has trouble sitting still | | | | similar to other problems they must be ruled out prior |
| and often forgets things. | | | | to a diagnosis of ADHD is made. |
| There are three different types of ADHD: | | | | Treating ADHD often includes a combination of both |
| Predominately Inattentive - With this type of ADHD the | | | | behavior modification and medication. Each person with |
| person has trouble organizing and completing tasks. | | | | ADHD is different so it takes time to figure out what |
| They are easily distracted and have trouble following | | | | works best. The best treatment plans are monitored |
| conversation. They have trouble following instructions | | | | closely and changed as necessary to find what works |
| and forget specific daily routines | | | | for the individual patient. |
| Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive - This person | | | | For those concerned about ADHD, there are many |
| squirms and fidgets a lot. Children with this type appear | | | | options for diagnosis. Help for both adults and children |
| to be in constant motion. They are impulsive and | | | | with ADHD are available. Speak with a school |
| speak and act inappropriately. They often interrupt and | | | | counselor, pediatrician or physician or early childhood |
| have trouble waiting their turn. Their impulsiveness | | | | intervention program for help if you have concerns. |
| leads to accidents to both themselves and others. | | | | Most areas have local support groups for parents and |
| Combined - With this type the person shows equal | | | | children. Research continues for both treatment and |
| signs of both types of ADHD | | | | cures. |
| The cause of ADHD is currently unknown but | | | | |