Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common disorders that affect children resulting in impaired functioning in multiple settings such as home, school and in social relationships. The disorder can have long term hazards if left untreated and can show its negativity right into adolescence and adulthood.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral developmental disorder that affects almost 3 to 5 per cent of the world’s population. This disorder manifests itself during childhood and is featured by relentless inattention, hyperactivity, forgetfulness, impulsive behavior and inability to concentrate. It is a persistent and acute condition and no medical cure is available to treat this disorder. However, certain medications and therapy are provided to treat the symptoms.

Almost 60% of children affected with ADHD possess the condition even in adulthood. This is a heritable disorder with only one-fifth of all cases caused by trauma or toxic exposure.

Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

Difficulty in concentration

Short term memory loss

Procrastination

Hyperactivity, wherein the child cannot stay still and keeps walking, running or fidgeting when others are seated

Weak planning and execution

Impulsiveness and acting without thinking

Inattention: The child is lost in his/her daydreams and is not bothered by what is going around

Reduced blood circulation.

Causes of ADHD:

ADHD is mostly inherited but can be caused by various external factors as well.

Difficulties with pregnancy

Severe illness during early childhood

Exposure to environmental toxins.

Diagnosis:

If ADHD is suspected you must consult a professional trained in dealing with the disorder. It is best to take advice from a child psychologist, psychiatrist, behavioral pediatricians, behavipral neurologists and clinical social workers. The expert may want to speak with the child’s teachers, principal and may even want to go through his/her school reports and medical records.

Treatment:

Behavioral therapy and mediactions are recommended for treating ADHD and may take a long time from a few months to years for the patient to completely heal.