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What You Should Know About ADHD
Symptoms
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Also known as Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD affects between 5 and 7 million children in the
US today, according to neurologist Dr. Fred Baughman. Other names that are
all about ADHD include attention deficit with hyperactivity, attention
deficit disorder, or just simply ADD.
ADHD symptoms begin to emerge between
age 4 to 6 in children. The symptoms of ADHD are usually easy to detect. Some
are the major behavioral symptoms include distractibility, short attention
span, and hyper-active.
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Not surprising, these numbers indeed represent adult ADHD. In 1985, there were about 500,000
children diagnosed with ADHD. While many will outgrow the disorder, these children today are young
adults exhibiting some ADHD symptoms that start out simply as hyperactivity. Little is know about
ADHD or the exact causes, but it is widely
accepted and understood to be a biologically-based disorder of brain function.
ADHD symptoms include impulsiveness and hyperactivity. While in
themselves, these symptoms would not trigger alarm for concern. However, as ADHD symptoms, they are
usually extreme in those children with ADHD, often out of control and unmanageable without
treatment or medication. ADHD should not be confused with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). The
symptoms are quite different including a lack of attention, but without the symptom of
hyperactivity which is common with ADHD.
Whether you suffer from adult ADHD, ADD,
or childhood attention deficit disorder, there are many medical options and ADHD medications to
choose from. Usually, treatment includes therapy along with ADHD medications, such as Ritalin or
Concerta. The best results are achieved when ADHD is approached from all angles, getting help from
teachers, counselors, friends, and family, as well as the medical community.
Some solutions to deal with adult ADHD or children with ADHD include constant
positive reinforcement. Repeated reminders and advance notice of changes will also help. Other
information about ADHD suggests that diet plays a big factor in whether or not people are
hyperactive. There are many natural ADHD and ADD remedies available nowadays, but the simplest and
most natural remedy is to eat less junk food, avoid sugar, and drink lots of water. Although there
has been some disagreement on whether or not spikes in blood sugar cause problems with
concentration, there is enough evidence to make it worth trying a healthier diet.
It seems like no matter what you
do, ADHD seems to win. The impulsive behavior is very difficult as is the hyper-activity. Grades
begin to suffer and your child is considered "anti-social". Now, the child gets labeled. You
eagerly seek advice. And now, all doctors want to do is put your child on ADHD medications. Well,
there are alternative treatments for ADHD. Many ADHD treatments use therapy, relaxation, exercise,
and positive mental attitude adjustments. There are some things you can do right away.
Studies show that children with ADHD respond better to short, direct
conversation. Get to the point. Also, offer a reward system for good behavior. Most children
respond well to additional responsibilities, such as assisting teachers, taking care of a pet, or
committing to a sport. Living with an ADHD child or adult does not have to be difficult. It just
requires a different approach.
Many people misunderstand ADHD symptoms, comparing behavior with that of a child
who wants attention. This is far from the truth. The reality is that the child cannot control
themselves and requires adult intervention in a positive way. While it is extremely challenging to
deal with ADHD, it is particularly rewarding to see improvement when applying these
principles!
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