ADHD is the abbreviation for attention deficit hyperactive disorder. It is a mental disorder that is usually first seen in childhood. As the name suggests, its main characteristics include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and a tendency to impulsivity. The condition is fairly common but tends to resolve spontaneously in a majority of the affected children. If they have been diagnosed with ADHD Dallas residents need to understand a number of things on the condition.
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.
Hyperactivity causes people to speak quite a lot. In children, it will be manifested as the inability to sit or remain immobile for a few minutes. Impulsivity is mainly characterized by impatience. The affected person tends to interrupt activities and conversations every so often. Other features are having difficulties in containing anger, poor development of language and poor control of motor functions.
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.
Treatment is mainly through the administration of drugs or through psychotherapy. The common practice is to combine both options so as to increase the chances of succeeding. Stimulants are the main group of drugs. Although these drugs are highly effective, they have a potential for addiction and abuse. Additionally, they may cause psychosis if given to preschool children. Such children may benefit from 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.
Hyperactivity causes people to speak quite a lot. In children, it will be manifested as the inability to sit or remain immobile for a few minutes. Impulsivity is mainly characterized by impatience. The affected person tends to interrupt activities and conversations every so often. Other features are having difficulties in containing anger, poor development of language and poor control of motor functions.
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.
Treatment is mainly through the administration of drugs or through psychotherapy. The common practice is to combine both options so as to increase the chances of succeeding. Stimulants are the main group of drugs. Although these drugs are highly effective, they have a potential for addiction and abuse. Additionally, they may cause psychosis if given to preschool children. Such children may benefit from 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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