What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? It is a growing problem both in the United States and around the world. It affects about one-fifth of school children in America, and one-quarter of youth in various countries. Inattention, hyperactivity, fidgeting and impulsiveness are common symptoms of ADHD. When a child has ADHD, they will exhibit the same behaviors more often than other children.
ADHD is not a normal illness or disease. It is a developmental brain disorder. People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are unable to control their own thoughts or impulses and are unable to sit still long enough to learn. Hyperactivity and impulsivity usually occur in addition to distractibility to external stimuli and lack of self-control.
The diagnosis of ADHD can be difficult because it is often confused with other disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ODD, and Asperger’s syndrome. There are certain symptoms of ADHD in adults that are very similar to the symptoms of other diseases or disorders. People with ADHD may have difficulty sitting still, and poor impulse control. Children who have ADHD usually have a hard time engaging in structured activities. They tend to lose interests and frequently lose themselves in play.
Some characteristics of ADHD predominantly inattentive type are increased irritability, difficulty with completing tasks, and difficulty starting or maintaining concentration. People with the disorder will seem restless and talk constantly. They will be unable to sit still for any length of time. These children will not pay attention to detailed instructions or face facts. In the older adolescents, the symptoms of ADHD primarily inattentive type tend to become more apparent.
The diagnosis of ADHD predominantly inattentive type is based on observing the child’s behavior. It is thought that ADHD causes problems with executive functioning, which includes the ability to organize, focus, follow directions, and solve problems. When adults begin suffering from ADHD, they usually have trouble performing other tasks necessary for their jobs.
Impulsivity is one of the many symptoms of ADHD that can cause problems in daily life. Impulsivity means that the child or adult has a problem when they are unable to control their actions. This inability to control impulsive actions means that they will act without thinking or taking into consideration whether or not their action is good or bad. People with ADHD suffer from a lack of self-control and will often act without considering the consequences.
Many people with ADHD have also been diagnosed with brain imaging studies. Brain imaging studies of children with ADHD have shown that the areas of the brain that control attention and impulse control are less active than in normal children. Research has indicated that this may be caused by the fact that the child is having a difficult time focusing and paying attention. Children with this disorder often have problems in school and relationships.
Although there is no cure for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, there are medications that can be prescribed for the treatment of this disorder. These medications include Ritalin, Adderall, Focalin, Concerta, and Strattera. Each of these medications has different side effects, so you should discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment before beginning. Your health care provider will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment and what you should do if you are diagnosed with ADHD. If you feel that your child may have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it is important that he or she is diagnosed right away so that appropriate treatment can be started as soon as possible.