There are a number of things on ADHD Dallas residents should know if struggling with this condition. ADHD, an abbreviation which stands for attention deficit hyperactive disorder, is fairly common condition that is mostly seen in children. The main features include inattentiveness, impulsivity and hyperactivity. A significant number of normal children may show these symptoms at some age after which they disappear spontaneously.
There are various criteria in place to help in the making of the diagnosis. In these criteria, the symptoms must have been observed for at least 6 months. Typically, symptoms and signs are first seen between the ages of 6 and 12. The prevalence has been observed to be higher in boys as compared to girls. Between 30% and 50% of cases of childhood ADHD progress into adulthood according to statistics. However, the prevalence of the condition in the adult population is just 4%.
Symptoms are sometimes difficult to ascertain because of the thin line existing between normal levels of inattention and hyperactivity and extreme levels. Depending on the presenting symptom, the condition can be classified as predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or a combination of the two. In predominantly inattentive, the majority of symptoms (about 6 or more) are in the inattention category though hyperactivity-impulsivity may still be present to some degree. Children with predominantly inattentive subtype of the disease have difficulty concentrating on one task.
Hyperactivity is manifested by a desire to talk a lot. The affected children struggle with handling of tasks that require them to be silent and immobile. Impulsivity, on the other hand is shown by increased impatience levels and frequent interruption of activities and conversations. Other features that have also been noted include difficulties in anger control, poor language development and poor motor control.
Although the causes of the disease have not been clearly elucidated, environmental and genetic factors have been shown to play a crucial role. Areas of the brain associated with lack of focus tend to have scanty tissue in children carrying specific genes linked to this disorder. However, when these children grow up, the affected region of the brain develops into normal size. Regarding environmental factors, studies have shown an association between alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking during pregnancy and this disorder. Other notable factors include exposure to organophosphates and lead, use of certain food additives, premature birth and low birth weight.
The management of this disorder involves counselling, medication or a combination of the two. Stimulant drugs are the treatment of choice in ADHD and their work by providing a calming effect to the victims. Such drugs have potential for abuse and should be discontinued regularly to assess need for further medication.
Drugs are contraindicated in pre-school children. Possible side effects include mania and psychosis. Behavioural therapy is recommended for pre-school children with mild symptoms. This should be carried out by parents as well as teachers.
If they wish to get more information on ADHD Dallas residents can consult a qualified psychiatrist. The encouraging is that with proper management, affected persons can lead a near normal life. Social support from the family and colleagues in the work place is crucial.
There are various criteria in place to help in the making of the diagnosis. In these criteria, the symptoms must have been observed for at least 6 months. Typically, symptoms and signs are first seen between the ages of 6 and 12. The prevalence has been observed to be higher in boys as compared to girls. Between 30% and 50% of cases of childhood ADHD progress into adulthood according to statistics. However, the prevalence of the condition in the adult population is just 4%.
Symptoms are sometimes difficult to ascertain because of the thin line existing between normal levels of inattention and hyperactivity and extreme levels. Depending on the presenting symptom, the condition can be classified as predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or a combination of the two. In predominantly inattentive, the majority of symptoms (about 6 or more) are in the inattention category though hyperactivity-impulsivity may still be present to some degree. Children with predominantly inattentive subtype of the disease have difficulty concentrating on one task.
Hyperactivity is manifested by a desire to talk a lot. The affected children struggle with handling of tasks that require them to be silent and immobile. Impulsivity, on the other hand is shown by increased impatience levels and frequent interruption of activities and conversations. Other features that have also been noted include difficulties in anger control, poor language development and poor motor control.
Although the causes of the disease have not been clearly elucidated, environmental and genetic factors have been shown to play a crucial role. Areas of the brain associated with lack of focus tend to have scanty tissue in children carrying specific genes linked to this disorder. However, when these children grow up, the affected region of the brain develops into normal size. Regarding environmental factors, studies have shown an association between alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking during pregnancy and this disorder. Other notable factors include exposure to organophosphates and lead, use of certain food additives, premature birth and low birth weight.
The management of this disorder involves counselling, medication or a combination of the two. Stimulant drugs are the treatment of choice in ADHD and their work by providing a calming effect to the victims. Such drugs have potential for abuse and should be discontinued regularly to assess need for further medication.
Drugs are contraindicated in pre-school children. Possible side effects include mania and psychosis. Behavioural therapy is recommended for pre-school children with mild symptoms. This should be carried out by parents as well as teachers.
If they wish to get more information on ADHD Dallas residents can consult a qualified psychiatrist. The encouraging is that with proper management, affected persons can lead a near normal life. Social support from the family and colleagues in the work place is crucial.
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