Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a widespread neurodevelopmental disorder in children. It is usually detected in childhood and mostly continues into adulthood. Children with ADHD may find it challenging to pay attention, control their impulsive behavior, or be extremely active.
Read more to learn about ADHD disorder and treatment:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Overview
ADHD is characterized by the continuous display of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that restricts brain development. This disorder mainly affects children and teens and in some cases, continues into adulthood as well.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms
ADHD symptoms in children are generally grouped into the following 3 categories:
Inattention
- Have a problem in following directions and finishing tasks
- Is easily distracted
- Doesn’t seem to be listening
- Makes careless mistakes
- Fail to recall about daily activities
- Has issues with organizing daily tasks
- Have difficulty in doing things that require them to sit still
- Often loses things and tends to daydream
Hyperactivity
- Often fidgets, squirms, or bounces when sitting
- Doesn’t like to stay seated
- Has trouble playing silently
- Is always on the move
- Talks too much
- Is continuously “on the go,” behaving as if “driven by a motor.”
Impulsivity
- Has trouble waiting in queues
- Interrupts others
- Shouts out answers
Symptoms in adults include:
- Forgetfulness
- Anxiety and low self-esteem
- Work problems and trouble controlling anger
- Substance abuse or addiction
- Impulsiveness
- Procrastination
- Chronic boredom
- Easily frustrated
- Difficulty concentrating when reading
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Relationship problems
ADHD Causes
The root cause of ADHD is still unknown. However, researchers believe heredity and chemical imbalances in the brain play a significant role in it. Other possible causes include:
- Certain infections
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Smoking and drinking during pregnancy
- Improper brain functions
- Injuries to the frontal lobe of the brain that regulates emotions and impulses
Also Read – Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Risk Associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
People with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder usually suffer from an anxiety disorder, depression, learning disabilities, conduct disorder, and substance abuse.
What Happens if ADHD is Left Untreated?
Untreated ADHD in adults can lead to severe problems in their personal and professional life. It usually leads to a frequent feeling of depression or low self-esteem. Also, it increases risky behaviors such as drug abuse, smoking, drinking, gambling problems, trouble with the law, and more. They may have difficulty performing activities such as:
- Staying organized
- Meeting deadlines
- Accepting criticism calmly
- Socializing with co-workers
Also Read – Autism & Children with Special Needs
ADHD Treatment and Medication
ADHD treatment can help a patient find relief from the symptoms and can allow them to manage their condition better. Medications, along with different physical therapies, are considered two remarkable remedies for this disorder. Both these remedies usually result in significant improvement in ADHD patients.
To learn more about ADHD, or to book an appointment with an ADHD specialist, contact our treatment center today!
Dr. Allan Lieberman is the founder and the medical director of the Center for Occupational & Environmental Medicine (COEM) that specializes in Environmental Medicine and Toxicology. Dr. Lieberman has been practicing medicine for the last 58 years, and as a research scientist, he has published many research articles. He is a highly-respected member of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine and also specializes in Pediatrics.