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January 24, 2014

Fit Facts: Not Just “Hype” About Hyper Kids

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder characterized by a combination of inattentiveness, distractibility, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Five percent to seven percent of children are diagnosed with this developmental disorder. Some simply cannot concentrate; some become disruptive, defiant and have trouble getting along with parents, peers or teachers. Work, school and managing household tasks can be very challenging for people with ADHD. Fortunately, sufferers can learn coping skills to work around challenges and harness talents.

More than Passing Problems
There are two sets of symptoms in ADHD:

  • Inattention, which may involve being easily distracted, not paying attention at school, or being forgetful
  • Hyperactivity and impulsivity, often exhibited by signs such as fidgeting, not being able to enjoy quiet play, interrupting others or talking excessively

Some children with ADHD have both types of behaviors. Other kids with the condition are either mostly inattentive or mostly hyperactive and impulsive.

There is no single test to diagnose ADHD, and many other problems, like anxiety, depression and certain types of learning disabilities, can have similar symptoms. To make a diagnosis, the doctor also will need to gather information about a child’s behavior in different settings, from teachers and others who know the child. One important part of diagnosis is to compare a child to others her same age. All children jump on furniture or space out on occasion. But the symptoms are much more frequent and severe in children with ADHD. Other signs that a child has ADHD: the symptoms tend to show up before age 7, and they last at least six months.

Treatment Can Turn Things Around
Medicines can be an important part of treating the core symptoms of ADHD. Kids prescribed these medications should see their doctors regularly for follow-up visits to make sure they’re receiving the right medications at the appropriate dosage.

Counseling or behavioral therapy can be used alone or combined with medicine to help kids improve their social and school skills. Parents also can help by setting and enforcing consistent routines and rules. Giving kids with ADHD frequent praise and feedback also may pay off.

Sources: Psychology Today; Kidshealth.org

 

 


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