Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder can affect the psychological and physical parts of the body in several different ways.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is
a group of behavioural symptoms that include inattentiveness, hyperactivity and
impulsiveness. Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age
and may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as
when they start school. Most cases are diagnosed when children are 6 to 12
years old.
The symptoms of ADHD usually improve with age, but
many adults who are diagnosed with the condition at a young age continue to
experience problems. People with ADHD may also have additional problems,
such as sleep and anxiety disorders.
Getting help
Many children go through phases where they're
restless or inattentive. This is often completely normal and doesn't necessarily
mean they have ADHD. However, you should consider raising your concerns
with your child's teacher, their school's special educational needs
co-ordinator (SENCO) or GP if you think their behaviour may be different to
most children their age.
It is also a good idea to speak to your family doctor/ GP if you're
an adult and you think you may have ADHD, but you weren't diagnosed with the
condition as a child.
What
causes ADHD?
The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but the
condition has been shown to run in families. Research has also identified a
number of possible differences in the brains of people with ADHD compared to
those who don't have the condition. Other factors that have been suggested as
potentially having a role in ADHD include:
- being
born prematurely (before the 37th week of pregnancy)
- having
a low birthweight
- smoking,
alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy.
It is thought that around 2% to 5% of
school-aged children may have ADHD. ADHD can occur in people of any intellectual
ability, although it's more common in people with learning difficulties.
Table of main symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
How ADHD is
treated
Although there's no cure for ADHD, it can be
managed with appropriate educational support, advice and support for parents
and affected children, alongside medication, if necessary.
Medication is often the first treatment offered to
adults with ADHD, although psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may
also help.
Living
with ADHD
Looking after a child with ADHD can be challenging,
but it's important to remember that they can't help their behaviour. Some issues that may arise in day-to-day life
include:
- getting
your child to sleep at night
- getting
ready for school on time
- listening
to and carrying out instructions
- being
organised
- social
occasions
- shopping.
Adults with ADHD may also find they have similar
problems, and some may have issues with drugs, crime and employment.
Source: NHS Choices