CONDITIONS
ADHD
What is ADHD?
Unusually high energy levels, impulsivity and difficulty concentrating characterise attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD struggle to focus on tasks, unable to complete them in time. Their inability to concentrate and complete tasks cause them to become depressed or develop stress and anxiety.
What are the causes?
Numerous factors increase your child's risk of ADHD. A history of ADHD, previous brain injury, a foetus's exposure to tobacco or alcohol while in the mother's womb is considered contributory.
Other risk factors include:
- Exposure to harmful toxins during pregnancy
- Premature birth
- Underweight babies
How do children get it?
ADHD can be passed down as a result of genetics or premature birth. However, in most cases, a cause cannot be identified.
What are the symptoms?
- Restlessness
- Fidgeting
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsive behaviour
- Failure to complete tasks
- Moving around or talking all the time
- Interrupting conversations between other people
What does a diagnosis entail?
Doctors first need to rule out other conditions causing ADHD symptoms such as sleep disorders, learning problems, anxiety or depression. The paediatrician asks your child questions related to their behavioural patterns to determine a diagnosis. Information from parents, teachers or caregivers ensures an accurate diagnosis.
How do you treat ADHD?
Other than behavioural modifications, there are medications to manage symptoms of ADHD in children. Medication only alleviates symptoms of the attention disorder and helps children focus and complete schoolwork.
Medicines for children include stimulants such as:
- Ritalin
- Daytrana
- Amphetamines
Or non-stimulants such as:
- Atomoxetine
- Kapvay
- Guanfacine (Intuniv)
Stimulants comprise short or long-acting formulas that work up until 4-12 hours and are required for children who need to concentrate throughout their school day. Non-stimulants work throughout the day within 24 hours.
What is the result?
ADHD results in mental incapability and affects school performance, which is why treatment must commence as soon as possible to improve your child's quality of life. Without adequate treatment, children can fall into depression or develop anxiety. Stimulants or non-stimulants, coupled with behavioural therapy, maximise your child's potential.
What does prevention for ADHD entail?
ADHD cannot be easily prevented, especially if the condition is acquired due to genetics or a family history of the disorder. Screening for ADHD early enough will prevent future complications and help you get one step closer to treatment.
Takeaway
ADHD is a cognitive disorder that affects thinking, social interactions, behaviour and emotions. Symptoms of ADHD are impulsive and hyperactive behaviour, trouble focusing, inability to complete tasks and depression or anxiety. Treatment for ADHD includes stimulant (Ritalin, Daytrana and Amphetamines) or non-stimulant drugs coupled with behavioural therapy.
Disclaimer
This information is for educative purposes only and is meant to be read by parents after their child has seen their medical practitioner.
WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS?
Behaviour purely focused on themselves, oblivious to their surroundings and the needs of their classmates.
Cannot focus
Cannot play alone quietly
Incomplete homework/assignments
Emotional problems
Turbulent behaviour
For these warning signs, seek urgent medical attention.
DO NOT DELAY CARE
PRACTICE INFO
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What is a paediatrician?
A paediatrician is a doctor who has specialised in medical care for children from birth to their teenage years. Paediatricians diagnose and manage both acute and chronic conditions in children, ranging from allergies, infections and injuries to behavioural and learning problems.