Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (or ADHD) is a psychiatric condition characterised by difficulty in controlling behaviour and difficulty in staying focused and paying attention. It is one of the most prevalent childhood disorders which may extend to adolescence and childhood. It is therefore very important to ensure that it is identified early enough and interventions undertaken. A few essential principles on ADHD Dallas residents may be eager to learn are hereby discussed in detail.
The diagnosis of ADHD is arrived at when the symptoms have been observed for 6 months or more. These symptoms begin by the age of six to twelve with prevalence being higher in boys than girls. Statistics show that the percentage of ADHD which persists in adults from childhood is approximately 30 to 50. However, only an average of four percent adult population has this disease.
It can be quite challenging to draw a line between normal and exaggerated levels of inattention and hyperactivity and therefore presenting symptoms may be difficult to define. The condition can broadly be divided into predominantly hyperactive impulsive, predominantly inattentive or both based on outstanding symptoms. About six or more related symptoms have to be present to ascertain predominant inattention or hyperactivity.
Hyperactive children tend to talk a lot, are unsettled and have problems handling tasks that involve silence and limited immobility. On the other hand, impulsivity in children is manifested by impatience and tendency to interrupt conversations or activities. Broadly, affected persons have challenges not only in anger control but also speech, language and motor development.
Although it is not very clear on what causes this condition, genetic and environmental factors play a major role. Children carrying certain gene varieties have thinner brain tissue in areas associated with attention. Research has shown that when these children grow up, the brain tissue assumes normal thickness. Studies also show a link between cigarette smoking and alcohol intake in pregnancy and ADHD. Additionally, exposure to lead and organophosphate increases the risk of ADHD. Other risk factors include low birth weight, premature birth and food additives.
There are a number of treatment modalities that ca be used to manage this condition. Commonly, pharmacological agents and psychotherapies are used. These may be used either singly or in combination. Stimulants were a common form of treatment in the past but there use has been strongly discouraged by experts. This is because stimulants have a high tendency for abuse and addiction.
Psychosocial therapy is recommended as first line treatment for preschool or children with less severe symptoms. This form of management entails practically getting involved in major activities a child takes part in such as completing school assignments. Training on social skills may have short term positive effects.
In order to achieve success and realise their full worth, guidance from teachers and parents is crucial for children with ADHD. The role of these guardians is to boost the morale of such children by noticing their capabilities. With this comprehensive discussion on ADHD Dallas residents are in a better position to help in management of this disorder.
The diagnosis of ADHD is arrived at when the symptoms have been observed for 6 months or more. These symptoms begin by the age of six to twelve with prevalence being higher in boys than girls. Statistics show that the percentage of ADHD which persists in adults from childhood is approximately 30 to 50. However, only an average of four percent adult population has this disease.
It can be quite challenging to draw a line between normal and exaggerated levels of inattention and hyperactivity and therefore presenting symptoms may be difficult to define. The condition can broadly be divided into predominantly hyperactive impulsive, predominantly inattentive or both based on outstanding symptoms. About six or more related symptoms have to be present to ascertain predominant inattention or hyperactivity.
Hyperactive children tend to talk a lot, are unsettled and have problems handling tasks that involve silence and limited immobility. On the other hand, impulsivity in children is manifested by impatience and tendency to interrupt conversations or activities. Broadly, affected persons have challenges not only in anger control but also speech, language and motor development.
Although it is not very clear on what causes this condition, genetic and environmental factors play a major role. Children carrying certain gene varieties have thinner brain tissue in areas associated with attention. Research has shown that when these children grow up, the brain tissue assumes normal thickness. Studies also show a link between cigarette smoking and alcohol intake in pregnancy and ADHD. Additionally, exposure to lead and organophosphate increases the risk of ADHD. Other risk factors include low birth weight, premature birth and food additives.
There are a number of treatment modalities that ca be used to manage this condition. Commonly, pharmacological agents and psychotherapies are used. These may be used either singly or in combination. Stimulants were a common form of treatment in the past but there use has been strongly discouraged by experts. This is because stimulants have a high tendency for abuse and addiction.
Psychosocial therapy is recommended as first line treatment for preschool or children with less severe symptoms. This form of management entails practically getting involved in major activities a child takes part in such as completing school assignments. Training on social skills may have short term positive effects.
In order to achieve success and realise their full worth, guidance from teachers and parents is crucial for children with ADHD. The role of these guardians is to boost the morale of such children by noticing their capabilities. With this comprehensive discussion on ADHD Dallas residents are in a better position to help in management of this disorder.
About the Author:
When your child needs treatment for ADHD Dallas doctors are available at www.familycareclinicforadhd.com. Schedule for an appointment today via http://www.familycareclinicforadhd.com.