Attention deficit hyperactive disorder, ADHD, is a condition that is usually diagnosed in childhood. As suggested by its name, its main features include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattentiveness. The condition affects a significant number of children but only presents as a serious condition in a few of them. If struggling with ADHD Dallas residents need to have some information on the condition to better manage it.
The cause of ADHD is unclear but a number of theories have been advanced. One theory attributes the symptoms a small brain volume. The proponents of this theory claim that the pre-frontal cortex is the most severely affected. The result is what is referred to as frontal lobe dysfunction. Another popular theory is that the affected persons have a problem with the dopamine system in the brain which in turn affects the way in which they respond to stimuli.
Persons that are hyperactive tend to talk a lot. Children exhibit hyperactivity by being unable to accomplish tasks that require them to be momentarily silent and immobile or do so with marked difficulty. Impulsivity is characterized by a high degree of impatience. The individual frequently interrupts activities and conversations. Other features include difficulties in anger management, poor control of motor functions and poor language development.
There are three sub-types of the condition. The classification is based on the type of symptoms that are seen. The first type is the combined type since all the symptoms are seen. The second is known as the inattentive type (formerly, attention-deficit disorder) since the main feature is frequent lapses in concentration. The third type includes patients that are hyperactive and impulsive but have normal attention spans.
In the event that signs and symptoms of ADHD are noted, the child or adult should be taken to a GP or a psychiatrist. In the case of children, the diagnostic criteria states that they must be between the age of six and twelve years. They will be observed for a period of about six months to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
ADHD is commoner in boys than girls due to reasons that are not clearly understood. About a third of childhood cases progress into adulthood. The symptoms seen in adulthood are slightly different to those seen in children. For instance, instead of impulsivity and hyperactivity, the adult will be constantly restless. They also have huge problems in developing interpersonal relationships and maintaining them.
The treatment of ADHD is mainly through drugs and psychotherapy. Stimulants are particularly effective but have the potential to lead to addiction and abuse. Their use should be closely supervised for this reason. In addition, they should not be given to preschool children due to the high risk of psychosis. In such children the main form of treatment is behavioral therapy.
It is possible to lead a normal life with a diagnosis of ADHD. The important thing is that the condition should be recognized early and treatment initiated. Combination therapy consisting of psychotherapy and drugs produces the best results. Social support should be greatly emphasized at home, at school and in the workplace.
The cause of ADHD is unclear but a number of theories have been advanced. One theory attributes the symptoms a small brain volume. The proponents of this theory claim that the pre-frontal cortex is the most severely affected. The result is what is referred to as frontal lobe dysfunction. Another popular theory is that the affected persons have a problem with the dopamine system in the brain which in turn affects the way in which they respond to stimuli.
Persons that are hyperactive tend to talk a lot. Children exhibit hyperactivity by being unable to accomplish tasks that require them to be momentarily silent and immobile or do so with marked difficulty. Impulsivity is characterized by a high degree of impatience. The individual frequently interrupts activities and conversations. Other features include difficulties in anger management, poor control of motor functions and poor language development.
There are three sub-types of the condition. The classification is based on the type of symptoms that are seen. The first type is the combined type since all the symptoms are seen. The second is known as the inattentive type (formerly, attention-deficit disorder) since the main feature is frequent lapses in concentration. The third type includes patients that are hyperactive and impulsive but have normal attention spans.
In the event that signs and symptoms of ADHD are noted, the child or adult should be taken to a GP or a psychiatrist. In the case of children, the diagnostic criteria states that they must be between the age of six and twelve years. They will be observed for a period of about six months to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
ADHD is commoner in boys than girls due to reasons that are not clearly understood. About a third of childhood cases progress into adulthood. The symptoms seen in adulthood are slightly different to those seen in children. For instance, instead of impulsivity and hyperactivity, the adult will be constantly restless. They also have huge problems in developing interpersonal relationships and maintaining them.
The treatment of ADHD is mainly through drugs and psychotherapy. Stimulants are particularly effective but have the potential to lead to addiction and abuse. Their use should be closely supervised for this reason. In addition, they should not be given to preschool children due to the high risk of psychosis. In such children the main form of treatment is behavioral therapy.
It is possible to lead a normal life with a diagnosis of ADHD. The important thing is that the condition should be recognized early and treatment initiated. Combination therapy consisting of psychotherapy and drugs produces the best results. Social support should be greatly emphasized at home, at school and in the workplace.
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