Understanding ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, affects millions of children and adults across America. The condition was previously known only as attention deficit disorder, or ADD.

While adults can continue to have ADHD symptoms, the condition begins in childhood, usually by age seven. Symptoms include:
  • hyperactivity
  • impulsive behavior
  • inattentiveness.

However, not all children with these symptoms are diagnosed with ADHD. To be classified as having ADHD, symptoms must be continual and persistent, and must interfere with daily activities in at least two areas of life (usually school and home).

The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, though researchers believe that many factors contribute to its development. Certain brain functions, genetics and chemical exposure are all thought to be possible ADHD causes.

While there is no cure for ADHD, some treatments are available to help curtail symptoms. Medications, different types of therapy and skill training are commonly prescribed ADHD treatments.

An accurate ADHD diagnosis is important for affected children so that a treatment plan can be prescribed. A trained professional should be sought to diagnose symptoms before beginning treatment.

ADHD Causes

Because of the widely varying symptoms of ADHD, researchers have not been able to pinpoint a particular cause for the condition. Most medical professionals believe that a variety of factors can cause ADHD.

In the past, many people thought poor parenting skills could cause ADHD. This, however, has proven false. While poor parenting may worsen ADHD symptoms, it cannot create them.

Genetics, brain abnormalities, chemical exposure and more are possible causes of ADHD.

ADHD Symptoms

ADHD symptoms vary depending on the type of ADHD. Some children exhibit only inattention symptoms, while some children exhibit only hyperactivity symptoms. Still others have symptoms from both categories.
 
For ADHD to be diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must interfere with daily activities in multiple areas of life, including home life, school and social activity. Understanding ADHD symptoms is critical to understand a child's diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans. 

ADHD Treatments

While there is no known cure for ADHD, many treatment options can help to lessen symptoms and modify or suppress ADHD behaviors. Many past treatment options have been proven ineffective and are no longer used.
 
Medications, therapy and skill training are currently the most common ADHD treatments.

Other Behavior Disorders

Many other disorders in children have similar symptoms to ADHD. Seeing a medical professional for a diagnosis when symptoms are present is important. Inaccurate diagnoses can increase symptoms and allow behavior disorders to worsen.

Childhood schizophrenia, child autism, conduct disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder and other behavior disorders can mimic ADHD.

Resources

Mayo Clinic staff. (2007). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved August 2, 2007, from the Mayo Clinic Web site: http://mayoclinic.com/health/adhd/DS00275/DSECTION=1.