ADHD

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral developmental disorder affecting about 2-5% of the world's population depending on the diagnostic criteria used.It usually occurs during childhood, and is recognized by a chronic pattern of impulsiveness , hyperactivity, and inattention.ADHD is generally a chronic disorder in individuals which is usually diagnosed in childhood continuing to meet diagnostic criteria in adulthood.

ADHD has a strong genetic component.Methods of treatment include some combination of medications, behavior modifications, life style changes, and counseling.The American Academy of Pediatrics states that stimulant medications and behavior therapy are suitable and safe treatments for ADHD.Long term safety of stimulants however has not been found.



Classification

ADHD is usually classified by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM).ADHD has been classified as a developmental disorder, a behavior disorder and a neurological disorder.



Symptoms:

The most common symptoms of ADHD are:

* Impulsiveness: a person who acts quickly without thinking things through.
* Hyperactivity: a person who is unable to sit still.
* Inattention: a person who daydreams or seems to be in another world.


Hyperactivity is common among children with ADHD but may be it disappears during adulthood.However, over half of children with ADHD proceed to have symptoms of inattention throughout their lives.

Not only inattention and "hyperactive" behavior are the problems faced by children suffering with ADHD. ADHD exists alone in only about 1/3 of the children diagnosed with it. Many of these similar type of conditions require other courses of treatment and some of the associated conditions are:


Bipolar disorder: Approximately, 25% of children with ADHD have bipolar disorder. Children with this combination of ADHD may demonstrate more aggression and behavioral problems.

Primary disorder of vigilance: This type of disorder is recognized if the childern show poor attention and concentration, as well as difficulty in remaining awake. These children tend to fidget, yawn and stretch, and are likely to be hyperactive in order to remain alert and active.

Oppositional defiant disorder (35%) and Conduct disorder (26%): These are both characterized by anti-social behaviors such as aggression, frequent temper tantrums, deceitfulness, lying, or stealing.



More of the following symptoms of inattention that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

1. Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
2. Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
3. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
4. Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
5. Often has trouble organizing activities.
6. Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
7. Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
8. Is often easily distracted.
9. Often forgetful in daily activities.



The following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivitythat is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:

* Hyperactivity:

1. Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
2. Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
3. Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
4. Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.
5. Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".
6. Often talks excessively.

* Impulsiveness:

1. Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
2. Often has trouble waiting one's turn.
3. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).



Causes

ADHD is generally inherited disease, but other causes of ADHD includes difficulties with pregnancy, birth, early childhood severe illness, and environmental toxins.



Treatment

Methods of treatment involve some combination of medications, behaviour modifications, life style changes, and counselling.The most effective and cost efficient method of treating ADHD are stimulant medications.Comorbid disorders or substance abuse can make the diagnosis and the treatment of ADHD more difficult. Psychosocial therapy is useful in treating some comorbid conditions.

However,These are the short term treatments for ADHD, long term treatments has not yet been determined with no controlled trials assessing the harms or benefits of treatment.