ADHD BreakthroughsADHD is also known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. This is the name that is used to diagnose a group of behaviors that are found in not only adults, but also children too. Some people may say that it’s hard to diagnose children because all kids can be hyper and fidgety.
The term ADD, also known as attention deficit disorder, was more commonly until the name was changed to ADHD back in 1994 by the American Psychiatric Association. ADHD is more prevalent in boys than it is in girls.
So what are the symptoms of a child with ADHD?
A child with ADHD who is inattentive will have at least 6 of the following symptoms:
* Easily distracted
* Has a hard time following instructions even if they are simple
* Forgets things
* Has a hard time paying attention at home and at school
* Has a difficult time dealing with activities that require planning ahead of time
* Losing things
* Is disorganized
* Doesn’t seem to listen
* Doesn’t pay attention to details
Now a child who is hyperactive will show signs of at least 6 of the following symptoms:
* Has a hard time waiting his turn
* Is very fidgety
* Always seems to be on the go
* Can’t seem to play quietly
* Talks too much, even speaking out of turn
* Can’t sit still in his seat
* Blurts answers to questions
* Interrupts others when they are talking
So what causes ADHD?
Kids who have ADHD don’t create enough chemicals needed in their brains. The lack of such chemicals causes them to be disorganized in thought and action.
Despite what some may think, the following do not cause ADHD:
* Video games, whether violent or not
* Excessive TV watching
* Bad parenting skills
* Lack of vitamins
* Too much or too little sugar in the diet
* Allergies
* Fluorescent lighting
Now you know what the symptoms of a child with ADHD are. They tend to show at least 6 of the above symptoms.
Jeydon Tatum has been a webmaster and marketer for 10 years running sites like Customize Life.
Now that you know what the 3 different types of ADHD are, click here for 12 Methods that REALLY work For combating the impulsive behaviors & restlessness of someone with ADHD.
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD), also simply known as autism, represents a broad group of learning disability disorders characterized by impaired social interactions, problems with non verbal communications and repetitive behaviors or severely limited activities and interests. Autism is one of the most commonly diagnosed childhood developmental disorders. The symptoms of autism in children usually appear before the child is 3 years old. According to the research by Centers for Disease Control Prevention in 2007, autism affects 1 in every 150 children in the United States. Statistics also show, that autism is three times common in boys than in girls. Read more on facts about autism.
Autism is characterized by three distinctive behaviors. There are certain physical characteristics of children with autism like difficulties with social interaction, display problems with verbal and non verbal communication and exhibition of obsessive interests. These behaviors can range in behavior from mild autism symptoms in children to disabling. As autism varies widely in severity and symptoms of autism in children, it may go unrecognized when debilitating disabilities mask it. In almost 75% of cases of autism, children also have mental retardation and find it difficult to bond with their parents or other family members. Read more on early symptoms of autism.
Autism Symptoms in Children
The signs and symptoms of autism in children, usually become observable in early childhood. Autism includes a wide spectrum of signs and symptoms, though each autistic child will exhibit a unique mixture of these behaviors, from mild autism symptoms to severe ones. The following are symptoms of autism in children:
Difficulty with verbal communication, including problems using and understanding languages
Difficulty with non verbal communication, like gestures and facial expressions
Even when the child has the ability to speak, there is the inability to participate in a conversation
Not able to make friends and preferring to play alone
Finds it difficult to socially interact and relate to people, and to his or her surroundings
Unique and unusual ways of playing with toys, like lining them only in a particular way
Not capable of imagining
Unable to adjust to changes in routine and unreasonable insistence on following the regular routine in detail
Obsession with unusual objects or parts of objects
Repetitive body movements or patterns of behavior like hand clapping, head banging or spinning
However, each child develops at their own pace, some may develop quickly than the other so, you should consider an evaluation for autism if any of the following autism symptoms in infants are seen:
The child avoids eye contact as much as possible
The child does not babble or coo by the time he or she is one year old
The child does not gesture in any form of a point or wave by the time he or she reaches the age of one year
The child does not start saying single words by the age of 16 months
The child does not start saying two word phrases by the age of 2 years
The child has lost all social skills
Diagnosis of Autism
Diagnosis of autism is based on standardized testing, plus a clinical evaluation by an autism specialist. These professionals are usually psychologists, psychiatrists, developmental pediatricians, pediatric neurologists or medical geneticists.
The diagnosis of autism is made when there are a specific number of symptoms as defined by the Diagnostic and Standard Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Some commonly used diagnostic tests are the CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale), the ABC (Autism Behavior Checklist) and the GARS (Gilliam Autism Rating Scale). Formal diagnosis by an autism specialist usually depends on completing the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale), and ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised). The CHAT (Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) is often used in pediatrician’s offices to screen for autism symptoms. Also, when physical features, like small head size or brain malformations are present, or there is a family history of relatives with autism, genetic testing such as chromosome analysis and single-gene testing is done.
Autism Treatments
Though, autism is a disorder that does not have a fool proof treatment plan and cure, there are autism treatments available to bring about marked improvement. There are a number of special therapies and behavioral interventions that target the development of language and social skills. Also, there are a lot of support groups available for family members to help understand and cope with their autistic children. But most of all parents need to provide love and support to the child.
These were the symptoms of autism in children and the various tests available for its diagnosis, along with the treatment options. Though there is no cure found for autism, there are a lot of therapies and behavioral interventions designed to remedy specific symptoms and bring about substantial improvement. But the best remedy that one can use for an autistic child is to shower him with ample love and affection.
Part one of this series examined the definitions, several types, and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This second and final part looks at some causes and how parents can help their children overcome its effects.
ADHD’s environmental causes are historically misunderstood yet easily avoided.
The history of ADHD has been plagued with misconceptions. Originally, it was believed caused by an injury or infection to the brain while the child was still an infant. Later, inattention or hyperactivity was linked to an over-ingestion of artificial sugar, sweeteners and food additives. More recent research has allayed parental guilt by showing that that neither is actually responsible for forming ADHD potential in the child’s brain.
In fact, modern research indicates the same factors contributing to ADHD in children are many of the same practices expectant mothers already avoid for other important reasons. Among other potential health risks, doctors warn that mothers who smoke during pregnancy significantly increase the chances for ADHD in their children. Using alcohol and drugs similarly increases the potential.
Lead poisoning is another possible factor. While the metal has been banned from paint and other construction materials for decades, children living in older buildings and homes may still be at risk.
ADHD medications are effective, but come with controversy.
ADHD varies by child. Doctors and psychiatrists usually develop a treatment regimen that combines re-organizing a child’s work and social environments in tandem with therapy and special medications. These medications are usually stimulants of the methylphenidate variety. Two of the most popular brands are sold under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta. Another popular brand, Adderall, is kind of amphetamine.
Doses are given anywhere from once to several times a day. Effectiveness varies according to the user, and physicians may try out different prescriptions and varying dosages before settling on the best choice for sustained, long-duration use. Side effects of methylphenidate and amphetamine are not generally problematic in the long term. Though some children report feeling “revved up,” the effects are not considered harmful. Additional reported side effects include insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability, and an upset stomach.
Recent research has begun to call into question the benefits of long-term medication therapy. In particular, a study related to the National Institute of Mental Health’s giant Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD recently reported that medications such as Ritalin and Concerta are no more effective after just three years than therapy administered without medication.
Therapy is a crucial step on the road to effective ADHD management.
It’s also important to understand that prescription drugs are not as effective without corresponding therapy and lifestyle management. Parents are strongly encouraged to take an active role in helping their children combat ADHD symptoms. This assistance can include:
Creating a daily routine: All children thrive on structure, and building a pattern to their daily lives helps children feel more relaxed.
Avoiding unnecessary sensory stimuli: Limiting children’s choices (in clothes to wear, what to eat for dinner, et cetera) and turning off television and video games helps their focus by removing “clutter” from their minds.
Communicate and discipline clearly and consistently: Giving clear but short instructions, and administering discipline decisively lets children understand parameters without becoming confused or distracted.
Offer rewards for positive behavior. Families may also decide to enlist the aid of a therapist, who will work with the child on building concentration and social skills. Group therapy is also sometimes effective. Parents may also take special classes and seminars to help them reorient themselves to the needs of an ADHD child.
Behavioral Disorders Related to ADHD
Between twenty and thirty percent of ADHD children also have some form of learning disability. Many struggle with writing, arithmetic, and writing deficiencies, including dyslexia. Other common disabilities include:
Oppositional Defiant Disorder: the child – usually a boy – is confrontational and argumentative with parents and authority figures. As many as one-half of all ADHD patients have some degree of ODD.
Conduct Disorder: A more serious form of ODD, children with CD are aggressively hostile. They will deliberately break rules, threaten or attack classmates, engage in theft or vandalism, and carry weapons. Up to forty percent of ADHD children have CD. Less common disabilities and problems include:
Tourette Syndrome: People suffering from this disorder frequently repeat mannerisms such as sniffling or pronouncing words. They may also involuntarily perform nervous tics
Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety and Depression
Parents worried their child is displaying ADHD symptoms are encouraged to contact a psychiatrist or psychologist for help in making a formal evaluation. Many specialize in working with children. Pediatricians, neurologists and clinical social workers are also able to diagnose the disorder.
Michael Kabel is senior staff writer for http://www.cornerstorkbabygifts.com. Stop by for parenting and baby resources, unique baby gifts, baby gift baskets and baby shower favors.
Autism is a puzzling condition that continues to baffle the psychological and medical communities. Some studies have found possible links between Candida albicans and the symptoms of autistic disorders. The Candida-yeast connection to autism is believed to be a result of a poor immune system in autistic individuals.
“Leaky gut” syndrome is a condition that many believe exists in autistic individuals as well as some of the general population. Environmental factors are thought to play a role in leaky gut problems. Anything that interferes with the individual’s immune system is believed to have an impact on the person’s ability to remove yeast from the body.
The leaky gut theory asserts that the symptoms of autism are due to toxins released through the digestive system into the body. The gut literally leaks harmful elements that have an adverse effect on the nervous system and the brain. The symptoms of autism are believed to be side effects of the toxins.
These include:
Poor eye contact
Repetitive movements
Inappropriate laughter
Inability to tolerate change
Troubles with transitions
Heightened sensitivity to sensory input
Behavior problems
Poor sleep patterns
Lack of communication and social skills
Removing Candida and yeast from the body is believed to alleviate these problematic symptoms. Certain proteins and sugars can make the yeast accumulate in the system very quickly. Many people choose specialized diets to help eliminate the build up of yeast.
The gluten and casein-free diet is a very difficult plan to follow but some swear that this eating plan offers relief from the problematic symptoms of autistic disorders. While some experience significant improvement, others require additional support of anti-fungal supplements and medications.
Anti-fungal medications like Nizoral and Diflucan are troublesome because they may cause liver damage. It is very important to monitor liver function while taking these medications. There is also a great threat of the yeast coming back in a stronger form if the medication treatment is suddenly stopped too soon.
Research is still in development in the leaky gut syndrome theory and autistic disorder. This does not deter many parents from trying natural approaches to reducing yeast overgrowth in their children’s systems. The ideal approach is to explore yeast infections and Candida.
Choosing natural remedies and supplements is preferable to invasive medications in many situations. The more you learn about yeast and how it affects the body, the better able you are to take steps to treating leaky gut syndrome in autistic individuals.
Know more on Candida-yeast connection to autism.
Part one of this series examined the definitions, several types, and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This second and final part looks at some causes and how parents can help their children overcome its effects.
ADHD’s environmental causes are historically misunderstood yet easily avoided.
The history of ADHD has been plagued with misconceptions. Originally, it was believed caused by an injury or infection to the brain while the child was still an infant. Later, inattention or hyperactivity was linked to an over-ingestion of artificial sugar, sweeteners and food additives. More recent research has allayed parental guilt by showing that that neither is actually responsible for forming ADHD potential in the child’s brain.
In fact, modern research indicates the same factors contributing to ADHD in children are many of the same practices expectant mothers already avoid for other important reasons. Among other potential health risks, doctors warn that mothers who smoke during pregnancy significantly increase the chances for ADHD in their children. Using alcohol and drugs similarly increases the potential.
Lead poisoning is another possible factor. While the metal has been banned from paint and other construction materials for decades, children living in older buildings and homes may still be at risk.
ADHD medications are effective, but come with controversy.
ADHD varies by child. Doctors and psychiatrists usually develop a treatment regimen that combines re-organizing a child’s work and social environments in tandem with therapy and special medications. These medications are usually stimulants of the methylphenidate variety. Two of the most popular brands are sold under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta. Another popular brand, Adderall, is kind of amphetamine.
Doses are given anywhere from once to several times a day. Effectiveness varies according to the user, and physicians may try out different prescriptions and varying dosages before settling on the best choice for sustained, long-duration use. Side effects of methylphenidate and amphetamine are not generally problematic in the long term. Though some children report feeling “revved up,” the effects are not considered harmful. Additional reported side effects include insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability, and an upset stomach.
Recent research has begun to call into question the benefits of long-term medication therapy. In particular, a study related to the National Institute of Mental Health’s giant Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD recently reported that medications such as Ritalin and Concerta are no more effective after just three years than therapy administered without medication.
Therapy is a crucial step on the road to effective ADHD management.
It’s also important to understand that prescription drugs are not as effective without corresponding therapy and lifestyle management. Parents are strongly encouraged to take an active role in helping their children combat ADHD symptoms. This assistance can include:
Creating a daily routine: All children thrive on structure, and building a pattern to their daily lives helps children feel more relaxed.
Avoiding unnecessary sensory stimuli: Limiting children’s choices (in clothes to wear, what to eat for dinner, et cetera) and turning off television and video games helps their focus by removing “clutter” from their minds.
Communicate and discipline clearly and consistently: Giving clear but short instructions, and administering discipline decisively lets children understand parameters without becoming confused or distracted.
Offer rewards for positive behavior. Families may also decide to enlist the aid of a therapist, who will work with the child on building concentration and social skills. Group therapy is also sometimes effective. Parents may also take special classes and seminars to help them reorient themselves to the needs of an ADHD child.
Behavioral Disorders Related to ADHD
Between twenty and thirty percent of ADHD children also have some form of learning disability. Many struggle with writing, arithmetic, and writing deficiencies, including dyslexia. Other common disabilities include:
Oppositional Defiant Disorder: the child – usually a boy – is confrontational and argumentative with parents and authority figures. As many as one-half of all ADHD patients have some degree of ODD.
Conduct Disorder: A more serious form of ODD, children with CD are aggressively hostile. They will deliberately break rules, threaten or attack classmates, engage in theft or vandalism, and carry weapons. Up to forty percent of ADHD children have CD. Less common disabilities and problems include:
Tourette Syndrome: People suffering from this disorder frequently repeat mannerisms such as sniffling or pronouncing words. They may also involuntarily perform nervous tics
Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety and Depression
Parents worried their child is displaying ADHD symptoms are encouraged to contact a psychiatrist or psychologist for help in making a formal evaluation. Many specialize in working with children. Pediatricians, neurologists and clinical social workers are also able to diagnose the disorder.
Michael Kabel is senior staff writer for http://www.cornerstorkbabygifts.com. Stop by for parenting and baby resources, unique baby gifts, baby gift baskets and baby shower favors.
There is no cure for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, but there are many treatments available to relieve symptoms. It is a chronic, however, and if left untreated can cause serious health problems.
Symptoms of the most common form of psoriatic arthritis affects the tips of the fingers or toes. However, one in five cases of the disease can affect the spine. The less common form of psoriatic arthritis is called psoriatic arthritis mutilating “the objectives of the joints, causing severe destruction.
Psoriasis is a rough, scaly type of rash that appears most often in the knees, elbows and scalp. The rash consists of red scaly patches or silvery gray on the skin. Psoriatic arthritis occurs in about five to ten percent of the 30 million Americans with psoriasis.
The condition affects men and women equally and usually appears between the ages of 30 and 50. In approximately 15 percent of patients the onset ofpsoriatic arthritis may precede the onset of psoriasis. The progress of psoriatic arthritis is usually mild in most people and may affect only a few joints.
What causes psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis symptoms
The skin is composed of several layers, a thin outer layer of dead cells, the inner layer of the skin. The regenerated skin is usually completely in the course of about a month from the outer layers of the lower layers. The “new skin” replaces the layer below top of him, while the outer layer of dead skin cells fell apart.
In patients with psoriasis, however, part of this process happens too quickly. The skin is rather a matter of days, and layers of skin cells can not be shed quickly enough. The accumulation of these dead skin cells then causes thick patches, itching in the body. The most important symptoms are those which are dry, scaly skin. The areas may be cracked or raised, and covered with silver look at points. The area around the patches may be red, with small pustules or blisters. These patches are often itchy and sore. Themost common areas that are affected by psoriasis are the elbows, knees, skin folds, and the trunk, but can affect skin anywhere on the body. Patients may also experience problems with their toes or nails, and / or burning eyes and itching.
No known triggers of psoriasis outbreaks, although the cause is not fully known. Injury to the skin such as abrasions or cuts, insect bites or other rashes, can aggravate the symptoms of psoriasis. Persons who are immunosuppressed due to chemotherapy, AIDS or other diseases such asrheumatoid arthritis are also at risk of more severe symptoms. Many other factors such as alcohol, lack of or excessive sun exposure, and stress can contribute to outbreaks of disease.The disease is not contagious.
Your doctor may take a skin biopsy of one of the scaly patches, and / or blood tests for diagnosis of psoriasis. More commonly, however, the diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical history and examination ofthe skin and / or nails.
The 5 types of psoriatic arthritis and its symptoms
There are actually five types of psoriatic arthritis, each with different symptoms, disease progression and treatment. Most people with psoriatic arthritis experience only mild symptoms of arthritis, and in only a few joints. The most common causes symptoms in only one or two joints. For those who experience more severe symptoms, however, as in the spine, the symptoms can usually be treated with medications and other treatments.
Distal interphalangeal predominant
This type of psoriatic arthritis primarily affects the last joint of fingers and toes (the “distal interphalangeal joint. It is similar to osteoarthritis, and in fact often confused with that guy, although symptoms are generally limited to these joints only.
Asymmetric Arthritis
Asymmetric arthritis usually affects only two or three together, and separately and not in pairs. It can affect any joint in the body, although common in the fingers and toes. Often, what causes your doctor may refer as “sausage digits”, where the fingers are swollen. Joints are often red and hot to the touch. This type is quite common, affecting 55-70% of patients withpsoriatic arthritis . It is usually mild, however, and does not advance as much as some other forms. It is quite sensitive to treatment with NSAIDs and other drugs.
Symmetrical polyarthritis
Symmetrical polyarthritis, also known simply as symmetrical arthritis, is identified by the fact that the swelling of the joints tends to occur in pairs, on both sides. For example, if the elbow is affected, both elbows are affected. It resemblesrheumatoid arthritis, although less severe. It’s probably the second most common in patients with psoriatic arthritis , which affects 15-70% of patients. Can be severe and cause joint deformity and skin symptoms are often much more severe than in those with other types.
Spondylitis, or psoriatic spondylitis
Spondylitis refers to inflammation of the joints of the spine. This is a serious condition that can cause deformities and changes in posture as a result. It is less common than the above rates, affecting 5-33% of people withthe disease. In addition, patients with this form of psoriatic arthritis often experience symptoms in the joints of the arms and legs. The most prominent symptoms of this type include inflammation, pain and joint stiffness in the joints of the back and neck. Indeed, it can affect the ligaments in these areas.
Arthritis mutilating
Mutilating arthritis is a very serious type of psoriatic arthritis. It is quite rare, affecting less than 5% of patients who are diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. Its severity is due to the fact that actually destroys bone and cartilage in the joints, deformed joints of the hands and feet mainly. It tends to come and go in a number of exacerbations or relapses and remissions. These usually coincide with flares inthe skin symptoms.
Patients may have one or more of these types in the course of their disease and can actually show signs of several types at once, so that the identification of a single rate is not always possible. There are also three other forms of arthritis that can occur in patients with psoriasis Reiter’s syndrome, gout andrheumatoid arthritis . Reiter’s syndrome is a disease that causes inflammation of the urethra, inflammation in the eye, and arthritis. There is a venereal disease, but they do produce lesions on the genitalia and the palms, soles of the feet and mouth. Gout is a form of arthritis that causes inflammation and sudden attacks of severe pain, often in the big toe. It is the result of excess uric acid in the blood, which causes the crystals to form in the affected joints. In patients with psoriasis,the disease is usually only present for a short time.
When the deformity occurs in one of the above forms of psoriatic arthritis, the disease can be easily confused with rheumatoid arthritis, which is a type of arthritis associated with the immune system resulting in severe joint deformation. These types differ mainly rheumatoid arthritis by the absence of a particular antibody in the blood of most patients with rheumatoid arthritis known as rheumatoid factor, in addition to skin symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis can occur in patients with psoriatic arthritis as well, however. Your doctor will use tests like blood tests and x-rays of affected joints to help determine what type or types of arthritis you have.
Causes of psoriatic arthritis
The cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown. Doctors suspect that genetic factors, environmental and immunological play a role in the condition. It is classified in the group of diseases called seronegative spondyloarthropathies. Approximately 40 percent of people who develop psoriatic arthritis have a family with psoriasis or arthritis.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis
The nature of the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis range depending on the type, but are generally similar to those of other types of arthritis. Patients often experience pain and stiffness or pain in the joints, usually in more than one joint. This pain is often accompanied by a reduced range of motion, or pain that worsens with movement. Psoriatic arthritis usually affects the joints of the fingers and toes more often, particularly joints near the ends of the fingers and toes. It also affects the knees and ankles. The pain and stiffness is usually worse in the morning, subsiding during the day.
Treatments for psoriatic arthritis and psoriatic arthritis symptoms
There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis. Treatment programs tailored to the patient’s symptoms in order to manage more effectively. Because the course of the disease can be very different from patient to patient, factors such as remission and exacerbation of symptoms are also important to consider. Each patient is different, and our treatment program is tailored to their particular needs.
Treatment plans include reducing inflammation in joints, reduce pain and prevent further damage. Psoriatic arthritis is actually treated the same way that the conditions of psoriasis and arthritis are treated individually. The skin is treated with topical and oral medications, including antibiotics. One objective in psoriasis patients is prevention of secondary infections resulting from skin irritation.
Mild forms of arthritis are treated as accompanying other forms of arthritis, aspirin, anti-arthritis drugs and other medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, are used to control pain and inflammation from the arthritis. Your doctor may inject steroids directly into the affected joints rather than prescribing medications for you to take at home. In patients who have this is not therapy, other medications may be prescribed. These include methotrexate and an antimalarial drug called hydroxychloroquine. Unfortunately, some medications used to treat a set of symptoms, especially those classified as malaria, may trigger an exacerbation, or worsening, in another set, so it is especially important that you talk to your doctor about any side effect you have the drug. It is also important to understand that there seems no relationship between the location of skin symptoms and the location of joint symptoms. You may have flaky patches on a part of his body and joint pain and swelling in a completely different part. It is unclear what the relationship between these two conditions.
There are also some therapeutic treatments that can relieve some pain and swelling in joints, such as heat, cold, or soaking in hot water. It is important to get enough rest. Your doctor may also suggest an exercise program tailored to their condition, to improve their general health and joint health status.
Other more aggressive treatments include corticosteroid injections into joints or injections of gold salts to patients with more destructive joint damage. In the case of joint damage very severe, surgery may be necessary, but not common. One concern is that the surgeon has the concern of the joint infection to go through injuries in the skin overlying the affected joint.
Your doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist for specialized treatment for their condition. A rheumatologist is a physician who specializes in rheumatic diseases, or diseases of the joints. While psoriatic arthritis is not entirely rheumatic in nature, a rheumatologist, but can be very helpful in prescribing the best course of treatment for patients.
Your physician may refer you to a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in diseases of the skin to treat psoriasis.
With proper understanding of their condition, and good health care, you should be much better able to help in their own treatment. By understanding the various factors that can cause asthma attacks in their symptoms, you can avoid these and minimize the effects on your body.
Part one of this series examined the definitions, several types, and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This second and final part looks at some causes and how parents can help their children overcome its effects.
ADHD’s environmental causes are historically misunderstood yet easily avoided.
The history of ADHD has been plagued with misconceptions. Originally, it was believed caused by an injury or infection to the brain while the child was still an infant. Later, inattention or hyperactivity was linked to an over-ingestion of artificial sugar, sweeteners and food additives. More recent research has allayed parental guilt by showing that that neither is actually responsible for forming ADHD potential in the child’s brain.
In fact, modern research indicates the same factors contributing to ADHD in children are many of the same practices expectant mothers already avoid for other important reasons. Among other potential health risks, doctors warn that mothers who smoke during pregnancy significantly increase the chances for ADHD in their children. Using alcohol and drugs similarly increases the potential.
Lead poisoning is another possible factor. While the metal has been banned from paint and other construction materials for decades, children living in older buildings and homes may still be at risk.
ADHD medications are effective, but come with controversy.
ADHD varies by child. Doctors and psychiatrists usually develop a treatment regimen that combines re-organizing a child’s work and social environments in tandem with therapy and special medications. These medications are usually stimulants of the methylphenidate variety. Two of the most popular brands are sold under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta. Another popular brand, Adderall, is kind of amphetamine.
Doses are given anywhere from once to several times a day. Effectiveness varies according to the user, and physicians may try out different prescriptions and varying dosages before settling on the best choice for sustained, long-duration use. Side effects of methylphenidate and amphetamine are not generally problematic in the long term. Though some children report feeling “revved up,” the effects are not considered harmful. Additional reported side effects include insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability, and an upset stomach.
Recent research has begun to call into question the benefits of long-term medication therapy. In particular, a study related to the National Institute of Mental Health’s giant Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD recently reported that medications such as Ritalin and Concerta are no more effective after just three years than therapy administered without medication.
Therapy is a crucial step on the road to effective ADHD management.
It’s also important to understand that prescription drugs are not as effective without corresponding therapy and lifestyle management. Parents are strongly encouraged to take an active role in helping their children combat ADHD symptoms. This assistance can include:
Creating a daily routine: All children thrive on structure, and building a pattern to their daily lives helps children feel more relaxed.
Avoiding unnecessary sensory stimuli: Limiting children’s choices (in clothes to wear, what to eat for dinner, et cetera) and turning off television and video games helps their focus by removing “clutter” from their minds.
Communicate and discipline clearly and consistently: Giving clear but short instructions, and administering discipline decisively lets children understand parameters without becoming confused or distracted.
Offer rewards for positive behavior. Families may also decide to enlist the aid of a therapist, who will work with the child on building concentration and social skills. Group therapy is also sometimes effective. Parents may also take special classes and seminars to help them reorient themselves to the needs of an ADHD child.
Behavioral Disorders Related to ADHD
Between twenty and thirty percent of ADHD children also have some form of learning disability. Many struggle with writing, arithmetic, and writing deficiencies, including dyslexia. Other common disabilities include:
Oppositional Defiant Disorder: the child – usually a boy – is confrontational and argumentative with parents and authority figures. As many as one-half of all ADHD patients have some degree of ODD.
Conduct Disorder: A more serious form of ODD, children with CD are aggressively hostile. They will deliberately break rules, threaten or attack classmates, engage in theft or vandalism, and carry weapons. Up to forty percent of ADHD children have CD. Less common disabilities and problems include:
Tourette Syndrome: People suffering from this disorder frequently repeat mannerisms such as sniffling or pronouncing words. They may also involuntarily perform nervous tics
Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety and Depression
Parents worried their child is displaying ADHD symptoms are encouraged to contact a psychiatrist or psychologist for help in making a formal evaluation. Many specialize in working with children. Pediatricians, neurologists and clinical social workers are also able to diagnose the disorder.
Michael Kabel is senior staff writer for http://www.cornerstorkbabygifts.com. Stop by for parenting and baby resources, unique baby gifts, baby gift baskets and baby shower favors.
This person is extremely disorganised and seems to not know where to start.
When I was younger (1st grade) my teacher told my mother that she believed I had childhood ADHD. My mother would not accept that and moved me to a private school where I appeared to be fine, now after graduating from a public High School I am noticing some things that make me different. I tend to speak about things with no point, I tend to interupt people a lot. I also havn’t been able to help feeling extremely ovewhelmed lately, so I think I could possibly have ADHD. This worries me know that I’m going to college where I could use all the focus I can get, but I am extremely afraid of taking some sort of medication with the fear that my personality will change. I was hoping someone culd please enlighten me on this topic THANK YOU -Dave
My symptoms have been around forever, and it would answer so many questions for me if it was ADHD. I have been on tons of meds for the Bipolar and they dont help! I have an appt thursday. How do you tell a professional you think he is wrong?