A much talked about term and also most misunderstood, we give you a quick read that will tell you everything you need to know about ADHD.
Firstly, let us see what ADHD is NOT. Some common myths around ADHD are:
1. ADHD is the result of bad parenting.
2. People who have ADHD are stupid or lazy
3. Only boys have ADHD.
Due to these myths, many adults and children who suffer from ADHD may not seek professional help.
Having addressed these commonly held misconceptions, let us move forward and understand what ADHD really means. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, which is a disorder that includes symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
The symptoms can be picked up as early as 4 years by a watchful parent.
What are the common symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD is usually diagnosed when a persistent pattern of inattention and /or hyperactivity – impulsivity interferes with the functioning or development of the child. The symptoms should be persistent in two or more settings like home, school or play area. Common symptoms can fall into the inattention domain or hyperactivity domain or both.
Inattention domain:
- Careless mistakes in schoolwork
Cannot focus on sustained tasks like lengthy reading - Poor time management, disorganised work
- Easily distractable
- Forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactivity- Impulsivity domain:
- Fidgets with hands
- Unable to engage in leisure activities quietly
- Often on the go, as if driven by a motor
- Has difficulty waiting for his turn
- Interrupts or Intrudes others.
What causes ADHD?
Neurochemical imbalances involving dopamine and serotonin are believed to cause many of the symptoms of ADHD. Dynamic interactions between genetics, the environment, and social factors do influence the severity of presentation. Behavioural problems due to excessive gadget use in early childhood can mimic ADHD. Diagnosis of ADHD requires a complete evaluation by a medical specialist with expertise such as a paediatrician or psychiatrist.
What treatment is available for ADHD?
ADHD is one condition where early diagnosis and intervention helps in better cure. The broad
- Attention enhancing tasks
- Behaviour therapies to reduce hyperactivity
- Medications to correct the neurochemical imbalance.
Treatment of ADHD involves combined team effort of the psychiatrist, parents of the child with ADHD and teachers role in school.
To know more about ADHD, please visit The Capstone Clinic for a general consultation. If you want to check for ADHD for a family member or child, you can get started with the right guidance at The Capstone Clinic. You could ask for an appointment with either our general physician, paediatrician or psychiatrist.