Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD · Attention Deficit Disorder · ADD)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD is diagnosed on the basis of a combination of the symptoms listed above. These symptoms must interfere seriously with at least two major areas of a person's life, such as school, home, or another setting (e.g., an extracurricular activity). Also, the person must show these symptoms constantly for at least 6 months and they must negatively affect social, academic, or occupational functioning.
There are no specific blood tests, scans, or electronic tests of brain activity that are particularly helpful in making the diagnosis. A doctor determines whether the behavioural problems associated with the condition are a continuous problem that requires treatment. This should be done by interviewing the person, parents and teachers, and may be assisted by the use of questionnaires and rating scales.
To make the diagnosis in children up to 16 years of age, there must be at least 6 of the inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present, and the following criteria must be met:
- the symptoms should be present for over 6 months
- the symptoms are not affected or better explained by another mental health disorder, such as an anxiety disorder, a personality disorder, or schizophrenia.
- at least some symptoms should have been present before age 12
- the symptoms are present in at least 2 situations (such as home and school)
- the symptoms are interfering with their functioning at work, home, or school
For some people, ADHD may not be recognized and diagnosed until they are older adolescents or adults. People who are 17 and older may have fewer symptoms and therefore require at least 5 rather than 6 symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity to be diagnosed.
Because people with ADHD can have inattentive and/or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, this condition can be grouped into 3 main types:
- Combined (symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity)
- Predominantly inattentive (mostly symptoms of inattention)
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (mostly symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity)
Treating and Preventing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
It's important to treat the condition. Untreated ADHD can seriously affect relationships, jobs, and school performance. Parents with children who have ADHD should not feel they've done something wrong if their child has trouble at school. People with ADHD are as intelligent and capable as anyone else and can lead happy, successful lives with the right help.
Treatments for ADHD include medication, behaviour management, changes at school or home, or a combination of these.
For children with ADHD, getting trained in child behavior management methods, classroom behavior modification methods, and school-based interventions such as special educational placement, have all shown promising results. Behavioral therapies are particularly helpful for improving social interactions and behavior (e.g., following rules, being motivated).
For individuals who were diagnosed with ADHD later in life, learning more about the condition and getting information is often helpful. Health care providers like occupational therapists, ADHD coaches, and support groups can help them make lifestyle changes that help reduce the impact of ADHD in their daily life. There are also vocational assessment services available to help those with ADHD obtain appropriate workplace accommodations.
There are a number of medications for ADHD which can be used for those aged 6 years and older. These medications are very useful for treating the core symptoms of ADHD (e.g., hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattention). Stimulants such as methylphenidate*, lisdexamfetamine, mixed salts amphetamine or dextroamphetamine stimulate the areas of the brain that do not have sufficient production of neurotransmitters to produce the needed chemicals. Another medication used to treat ADHD is called atomoxetine, which helps to increase the levels of a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine in the brain. Note that ADHD medications can have side effects such as a decreased appetite or sleep disturbances. It is best to discuss the benefits and risks of a medication with your health care provider.
Many people may be wary of these medications. However, taking medication as prescribed, whether short- or long-term, may help those living with ADHD to maintain a high level of function that may not be possible without the medication. Some individuals, especially those with coexisting problems or disorders (see the list in "Symptoms and Complications" above) may require other types of medication. Other individuals may manage without medication.
To complement their other treatments, people with ADHD can benefit from a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and good sleep habits (such as going to bed and waking up at consistent times and avoiding caffeine, large meals, and stressful activities before bed).
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity-Disorder
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