Does your child seem to be constantly on the move? Does your child always talk? Does he or she have difficulty focusing and tend to daydream instead?
Your child could have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, this disorder usually begins between ages three and six. It's not just for children. ADHD can continue into adulthood and even through adolescence.
ADHD can be classified into three different types:
- Inattentive (problems concentrating, following instructions, and completing tasks)
- hyperactive-impulsive (constantly on the go, talking excessively, and interrupting others)
- combined (symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity)
Diagnosing ADHD
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, studies show that the number of children diagnosed with ADHD is increasing. According to the CDC, in 2011, 11% of kids aged 4–17 (6.4 million children) were diagnosed with ADHD. This is up from 7.8% of kids in 2003. Tiffany R. Farchione, M.D., is a child psychiatrist who reviews drugs for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ADHD. She believes that the increase could be due to greater public awareness about the disorder and psychiatric illness in general.
Girls (5.6%) were more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than boys (13%). Boys are also more likely to have the hyperactive-impulsive type, which is easier to spot than the quieter child who is inattentive, says Farchione.
Consult your pediatrician or family doctor if you suspect that your child may have ADHD. You should check your child's hearing, vision, and any other factors that could contribute to their inattention. Your doctor may diagnose ADHD or refer your child for evaluation to a mental specialist.
Treatments for ADHD
The FDA has approved two types of medications—stimulants and non-stimulants—to help reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve functioning in children as young as age 6.
Farchione says that it may seem counterintuitive, but stimulants, including various forms of amphetamine and methylphenidate, have a calming effect on hyperactive ADHD children. It is believed that they increase the brain's levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation, attention, and movement.
The FDA also approved three non stimulants for treating the symptoms of ADHD. These include Strattera (atomoxetine), Intuniv (guanfacine), and Kapvay (clonidine). These are a good alternative for children who do not tolerate stimulants. Speak to your doctor about the best ADHD medication for your child.
Some children with ADHD also receive behavioral therapy in addition to their medication to help them manage symptoms and learn new coping strategies. Parents can also reach out to the schools of their children and local support groups to get information on how to deal with ADHD behaviors. Farchione says that it's important to talk with all the people involved in the child's life about the disorder.
Test the effects of Medication on Younger children.
FDA-approved drugs currently on the market were tested for safety and efficacy in clinical trials with children aged 6 and older. Once a drug is approved and on the market, the FDA now asks for clinical trials with children as young as 4 and 5.
Farchione says, "We are aware that ADHD medications are prescribed to younger children. We think it is important that data from clinical trials reflect the safety of these drugs for this age range."
ADHD is a serious condition that can lead to severe consequences if left untreated. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, a child with ADHD may experience difficulties at school, have problems making friends, and even have conflict with their parents.
Children with ADHD who are not treated have higher emergency room visits, and they are more likely than others to self-injure. Untreated ADHD adolescents are more likely than those who have been treated to take risky actions, like drinking and driving. They have twice as many motor accidents as those who receive treatment.
Adults with ADHD
According to studies, about 4% of adults may be affected by ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD in adults are similar to those seen in children, but they may manifest differently. Adults with ADHD can have difficulty multitasking and poor time management. They may also be restless during downtime and avoid activities requiring sustained concentration.
ADHD is diagnosed in adults only when some symptoms are present in childhood. This usually occurs before the age of 7.
Farchione says that for some adults, an ADHD diagnosis can be a relief. Diagnoses help adults understand their issues and can lead to better treatment.
