Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
POSTED October 2, 2010 - 01:17 | POSTED BY aditya_sardana
Last edited by aditya_sardana on October 2, 2010 - 01:28
ADHD consists of a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactive and impulsive behaviour that is more severe than expected in children of that age and level of development. ADHD can also occur in adolescents and adults.
Causes:
There is an evidence for genetic basis of this disease. The suggested contributory factors for ADHD include cigarette smoking or alcohol use during pregnancy, pregnant woman’s exposure to toxins, child’s exposure to high levels of lead, and brain injury.
Symptoms:
Following symptoms have been given by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition text revision published in the year 2000 (DSM-IV-TR). DSM is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals.
Symptoms of inattention in children may be -
• Child often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
• Child often has difficulty in sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
• Child often has difficulty in organizing tasks and activities.
• Child does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
• Child does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish school work, chores, or duties in the workplace.
• Child is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
• Child is forgetful in daily activities.
• Child often looses necessary things like toys, books, pencils, etc.
• Child avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
Symptoms of hyperactivity in children may be -
• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
• Leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected.
• Runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate.
• Has difficulty in playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly.
• Talks excessively
• Child is often “on the go” or often acts as if “driven by a motor”.
Symptoms of impulsivity in children may be-
• Bursts out answers before the completion of questions.
• Interrupts or intrudes on others.
• Child has difficulty awaiting turn.
Cures:
Treatment:
Drugs called CNS stimulants (like methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) are used. Counselling or behavior therapy is also helpful.
Prevention:
Early identification and treatment can prevent many of the problems associated with ADHD. Any type of injury or harm to the fetus should be avoided during pregnancy. Cigarette smoking or alcohol use during pregnancy should be avoided. Child should be protected from exposure to pollutants, toxins, cigarette smoke, chemicals, and lead.
