Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic behavioral disorder that is initially seen during childhood and is characterized by impulsiveness and hyperactivity along with inattentiveness. However, it is not necessary that all the people suffering from ADHD show these symptoms. This can lead to difficulty in academic performance and also social functioning. The diagnosis of this syndrome is established by satisfying the basic criteria and this can be associated with other significant behavior and neurological changes. The person might also develop learning disabilities.

Studies have shown that almost 8-10% of the children in United States fulfill the diagnostic criteria of ADHD. Hence, it forms one of the most common disorders observed among children. The incidence of occurrence of ADHD is more common in boys as compared to girls. There are mainly three types of ADHD:

• Predominantly inattentive

• Predominantly impulsive and hyperactive

• Combination of both the above categories

Studies have shown that almost 40-50% of children suffering from ADHD in the childhood are likely to carry the problem to their adulthood.

The reason behind ADHD has not been defined completely. There is one theory that comes into picture by brain imaging between people with and without the symptoms. Similarly there have also been variations between studies of the structure of brain between people who have been affected and those that haven’t been affected.

If you observe the following symptoms in a child then it is important to get a diagnosis done to rule out any condition of ADHD. The symptoms can be divided based on the behavioral changes and types of ADHD.

Inattention:

• The child is unable to pay attention to close details and tends to make careless mistakes in schoolwork and other activities.

• There are attention problems faced by the child even during play activities.

• The child does not listen attentively when spoken directly.

• The child does not follow instructions properly and also is unable to complete a given work according to the instructions given.

• Here is a problem faced in organizing and correlating tasks and activities.

• The child does not like taking part in activities that involve mental effort.

• The child tends to lose things that are related to a specific activity.

• Easiness to distraction to external things.

• Forgetfulness for everyday activities.

Hyperactivity:

• The child is restless and fidgets with hands and feet.

• The child tends to leave the seat when expected to be seated in a particular situation.

• The child tends to run and climb in situations when least expected.

• The child finds it difficult to concentrate on leisure activities.

• Excessively talkative.

Impulsivity:

• The child tends to speak before a particular question is completed.

• The child is impatient to wait for his or her turn.

• There is a tendency to interrupt others conversation.

If these symptoms are persistent and you have been observing them for long in your child then it is important that you consult a physician who can guide you on the details about ADHD and start a proper treatment for your child.

Jason Ladock

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