Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as hyperactivity or attention deficit disorder (ADD), is a common condition in children.

Children with ADHD generally have problems paying attention or concentrating, can't seem to follow directions, and are easily bored and/or frustrated with tasks. They also tend to move constantly and are impulsive (do not think before they act). Although these behaviors are in general common in children, they occur more often than usual and are more severe in a child with ADHD. These behaviors interfere with the child's ability to function at school and at home.

What Are ADHD Symptoms?

Symptoms of ADHD are generally grouped into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness.

Inattention

• Is easily distracted.
• Does not follow directions or finish tasks.
• Does not appear to be listening when someone is speaking.
• Does not pay attention and makes careless mistakes.
• Is forgetful about daily activities.
• Has problems organizing daily tasks.
• Avoids or dislikes activities that require sitting still or a sustained effort.
• Often loses things, including personal items.
• Has a tendency to daydream.

Hyperactivity

• Often squirms, fidgets, or bounces when sitting.
• Does not stay seated as expected.
• Has difficulty playing quietly.
• Is always moving, such as running or climbing on things. (In teens and adults, this is more commonly described as a sense of restlessness.)
• Talks excessively.

Impulsivity

• Has difficulty waiting for his or her turn.
• Blurts out answers before the question has been completed.
• Often interrupts others.

What Causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD is not known, although researchers continue to study the brain for clues. They suspect that there are several factors that may contribute to the condition, including:

• Heredity: The fact that ADHD tends to run in families suggests that children may inherit a tendency to develop ADHD from their parents.
• Chemical imbalance: Experts believe an imbalance of the chemicals that help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other, called neurotransmitters, may be a factor in the development of symptoms.
• Brain changes: Areas of the brain that control attention are less active in children with ADHD than in children without the disorder.
  

The following are other factors that may contribute to the development of ADHD or that may trigger symptoms:

• Poor nutrition, infections, and substance abuse (including cigarette and alcohol use) during pregnancy may be contributing factors, since they can affect the development of the baby's brain.
• Exposure to toxins, such as lead, in early childhood can also affect brain development.
• Injury to the brain or a brain disorder.
  

It is important to note that eating too much sugar on the part of the child does not cause ADHD. However, a proper diet is essential for normal development in children. ADHD is also not caused by watching too much TV, a poor home life, poor schools, or food allergies.