Let’s face it — kids are rambunctious. They love running around, laughing and playing with their friends, but when should that active energy cause concern for parents? Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) affects approximately 4-to-7 percent of children and is two-to-three times more likely to occur in boys than in girls. It is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. These symptoms usually occur together; however, one symptom may occur individually.
The symptoms of hyperactivity, when present, are almost always demonstrated by age seven. Inattention or attention-deficit may not be apparent until the child is well into elementary school. The three types of ADHD include ADHD, combined type; ADHD, impulsive, hyperactivity type; and ADHD, inattentive and distractible type.
The first form of ADHD, combined type, is the most common. It is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors, as well as inattention and distractibility. The second form, impulsive/hyperactive type, is the least common and is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without inattention and distractibility. Third, ADHD, inattentive and distractible type, displays no signs of hyperactivity and is predominately characterized by inattention and distractibility.
In addition to displaying difficulty in sustaining attention, children who suffer from inattention may also experience difficulty listening to others and noting details, forgetfulness, and poor organizational and/or study skills for their age. Impulsivity is best demonstrated by the child often interrupting others, having difficulty waiting for his or her turn in school and/or games, shouting out answers instead of waiting to be called upon, and frequently taking risks without thinking before acting. If your child seems to be in constant motion, has difficulty remaining in his or her seat, fidgets and/or talks excessively, loses or forgets things often or shifts from one task to another without any being completed, they may be suffering from hyperactivity.
If you notice that your child is consistently demonstrating any of the symptoms listed above, you should schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to have them assessed. Treatment for ADHD will be determined by your child’s health care provider based on your child’s age, overall health and medical history; extent of your child’s symptoms; and your child’s tolerance for specific medications. Your opinion and preference will also play a factor into your child’s treatment plan.
Aside from prescription medication, psychosocial treatment options are also available for both parents and children to help minimize challenges presented by ADHD that may cause stress within the family. One option is enrolling in behavior management skills classes for parents. These classes usually occur in a group setting, which encourages parent-to-parent support. Reinforcing behavior management techniques with your child, such as finishing their homework or keeping the child’s hands to his or herself also tend to improve targeted behaviors.
Currently, there are no known preventative measures to reduce the risk of ADHD in children; however, early detection and intervention may reduce the severity of behavioral symptoms, enhance the child’s normal growth and development, and improve the overall quality of life for children with ADHD.
If you or your child does not have a primary care physician, please call 317-880-8687 to schedule an appointment.
Nydia Nunez-Estrada, M.D.
Family Medicine
Eskenazi Health Center North Arlington