What is ADHD?
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that typically makes it difficult for children to concentrate on certain tasks, sit still, and control impulsive behaviors. Most symptoms develop during childhood and last through adulthood, but early intervention can help your child in coping better with ADHD.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
Many children struggle to focus and sit for long periods of time, but those with ADHD typically don’t grow out of these behaviors without support. Children with ADHD may:
- Talk too much
- Interrupt others
- Struggle to concentrate
- Fidget when sitting
- Daydream often Forget items and tasks
- Act impulsively
- Have trouble following instructions
Because hyperactivity and fidgeting are hallmark signs of ADHD, it’s easy to miss the symptoms in young girls. While boys tend to display the traditional signs of this disorder, girls are more likely to daydream, have a messy bedroom or backpack, or “zone out” in class.
What causes ADHD?
While the exact cause of ADHD remains unknown to medical experts, some of the most important risk factors include:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Alcohol consumption during pregnancy
- Smoking during pregnancy E
- Exposure to lead
- Brain injury
Some experts believe that children with ADHD have a smaller volume of gray matter in their brains than those who don’t. Gray matter influences many aspects of your speech, ability to make decisions, and self-control.
How do doctors diagnose ADHD?
A complete physical and mental health assessment can help determine whether your child has ADHD. The first step is visiting your pediatrician or primary care provider to rule out an underlying health condition, such as vision problems.
Dr. Marquez-Floyd can then perform a mental health assessment that involves reviewing your child’s medical history and asking various questions regarding their symptoms. For a proper diagnosis, keep notes on when these symptoms started, how frequently they appear, and any techniques you’ve tried to minimize them.
A comprehensive exam helps Dr. Marquez-Floyd better understand your child’s condition, so she can create a treatment plan that helps them reach their goals.
What are the treatments for ADHD?
Most ADHD treatments involve a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. However, it’s essential that you establish healthy habits at home to ensure your child remains productive and focused in school and at home.
Children with ADHD often respond well to routine. Setting up a healthy routine can help your child focus on tasks and stay on track in school. Creating incentives for completed work and tasks is also a helpful way to reward your child for positive behaviors.
Because children with ADHD are often energetic, limiting sugar and screen time at home can help minimize hyperactivity.
For more information on ADHD, call Estelita Marquez-Floyd, M.D., or book an appointment online now.
