Facts about childhood ADHD

Author :-

Dr. Venugopal Reddy I

Consultant - Pediatrician

What Is Childhood ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects many children. It makes it difficult for them to function effectively in various aspects of their lives., involving:

academic and professional achievements
interpersonal relationships
daily functioning

It is important to note that when ADHD is not treated appropriately, it can impact your child's self-esteem and social function. In children with ADHD, self-esteem can be a problem because they are more sensitive to criticism.

Symptoms of ADHD

Understanding the symptoms of ADHD is crucial for early identification, intervention, and support. It will allow you to guide your child in navigating the challenges they face and thrive in their personal and academic lives. Even though every child is different and may show other symptoms, the list below can help you spot possible signs and get your child the help they need:

1. Inattention

Children with ADHD can struggle to pay attention in school or complete tasks such as chores. They will also need help with the following:

following directions
losing things often
remembering things

2. Hyperactivity

Children with ADHD are often hyperactive and want to participate in activities. They tend to get bored quickly if they do something other than what keeps them busy. Children with ADHD often have trouble with the following:

sitting still
moving around a lot
having difficulty doing quiet things
excessively talk

In addition, they will need help learning to wait their turn to speak while others are talking.

3. Impulsivity

Often, children with ADHD do things without thinking about the consequences of their actions. Some activities could be dangerous and considered impulsive. It's crucial to remember that not all kids with ADHD have these signs. But you can visit a doctor to confirm if your child has trouble with the following:

focusing
staying still
controlling their behaviour

When researching “what are symptoms of ADHD,” monitor your child's actions and take note if your child is showing symptoms of ADHD. Please schedule an appointment with your paediatrician and discuss your messages with them during the appointment. Support and care can help your child cope with their condition. It is essential for your child's health that you talk to healthcare professionals who can give you advice and tools.

Childhood ADHD Causes

There has been a recent link between this condition and genetic factors. Researchers are looking into genetics as one of several potential causes and ADHD risk factors.

Brain injury
Prenatal or early life exposure to environmental hazards (such as lead)
Fetal alcohol syndrome
Maternal tobacco usage
Preterm birth
Underweight babies

The shared beliefs that the following promote ADHD have not been borne out by scientific inquiry.

Too much sugar in the diet
Television
Parenting
Social and environmental variables like poverty or family upheaval

Evidence suggests they are not the primary cause of ADHD.

Diagnosis of Childhood ADHD

Understanding the diagnostic procedure for ADHD is crucial for ensuring your child receives the necessary care. The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) encourages ADHD diagnosis and evaluation; primary care clinicians should take the following actions.

For children and adolescents between ages 4 and 18 with difficulties in school and exhibit signs of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, consider testing for ADHD.
Collect information from the children, parents, teachers, and mental health professionals.
Use rating scales and other sources to ensure symptoms meet DSM-5 criteria
Eliminate any other potential causes of these symptoms.
Check for physical conditions like tics, sleep disorders, apnoea, emotional or behavioural disorders like anxiety, depression, and behaviour problems; developmental disorders like learning and language disorders; and an autism spectrum disorder.
If you notice your child showing symptoms of a condition you aren't trained to treat or diagnose, it would help if you got them in to see a professional.

Treatment of Childhood ADHD

Learning that various viable treatments can help control your child's symptoms and enhance their quality of life is crucial. The most often-used treatments are

1. Medication

Most ADHD medicine prescriptions are for stimulants. They are effective because they raise concentrations of neurotransmitters involved in self-control and impulse management. Medicines licensed for treating ADHD include the following:

lisdexamfetamine
dexamfetamine
methylphenidate
atomoxetine
guanfacine

Unless stimulant drugs work well for your child, you can try non-stimulant alternatives.

The information provided is intended for educational purposes only. It aims to offer general knowledge and insights about ADHD medication. The list provided is not a substitute for consulting with qualified healthcare professionals, such as physicians, psychologists, or psychiatrists specialising in ADHD.

2. Behavioral Treatment

Children with ADHD can benefit from learning new coping strategies through behavioural therapy. To assist those going through a difficult time, you can use methods such as

group therapy
social skills training
cognitive-behavioural therapy

3. Lifestyle Change

Modifying one's lifestyle can aid in controlling ADHD symptoms. The strategies that can help manage ADHD symptoms are

Creating routines
Making clear expectations and limitations
Providing structure
Reducing distractions

The term 'children ADHD' is complex. Remember that every child is different; one child's success formula would not work for another. Effective management of ADHD symptoms could require a combination of medicines.

Children's ADHD is a disorder that can affect numerous aspects of a child's existence, so working directly with a doctor specialising in treating this condition is essential.

Recognising that every individual's experience with ADHD is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. Treatment options mentioned in the blog, including medications, are meant to provide an overview of commonly prescribed interventions. However, the decision to use any medication or treatment approach should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, taking into account the specific needs and circumstances of the individual.