ADHD, which stands for attention deficit hyperactive disorder, is a fairly common psychiatric condition that typically manifests during childhood. Patients with ADHD have trouble focusing and behaving appropriately. ADHD is typically diagnosed based on certain characteristic behaviors and can be treated with a combination of medications and behavioral therapy.
Types
There are three main types of ADHD, Kids Health explains. The inattentive type is marked by children having difficulty with focus and paying attention, which can cause them to have trouble with schoolwork and other tasks, such as listening and following instructions.
Children with the inattentive form of ADHD also have a tendency to lose things and are easily distracted. The second type of ADHD, which is the hyperactive subtype, is distinguished by excessive talking, difficulty in remaining seated, and excessive running or climbing. Children with this subtype often have problems playing quietly. The third type is termed mixed, and represents a combination of inattentive and hyperactive behaviors.
Incidence
Between 3 to 5 percent of all American children have ADHD, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke explains. This condition is most commonly diagnosed during childhood. The symptoms of ADHD typically persist into adulthood, but many adults find ways of coping or compensating for their behavioral problems in order to mask this disorder. Boys are more likely to develop ADHD and are also more likely to be non-compliant with instructions from parents or teachers, the Mayo Clinic explains.
Causes
Although it is not exactly known what causes ADHD, the Mayo Clinic notes some factors that appear to play a role. Patients with ADHD have altered brain anatomy and chemistry. Because ADHD typically runs in families, genetics may also play a role. There is evidence that maternal drug use, smoking and exposure to other toxic chemicals can factor into ADHD. Lead exposure is also thought to contribute to the condition.
Diagnosis
Because there is no definitive test for ADHD, an accurate diagnosis usually is done based on conditions set forth in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which is the definitive manual for the diagnosis of psychiatric and mental diseases.
To be diagnosed, patients must exhibit behavior inappropriate for their age indicative of one of the three forms of ADHD. This behavior must begin before the age of seven, occur in multiple settings, and persist for more than six months.
Treatment
ADHD is usually treated with a combination of medications and behavioral therapy, Kids Health explains. The medications may be in the form of stimulants, which are the most common treatment, non-stimulant medications and antidepressants. Behavioral therapy aims to teach children how to behave appropriately and gives them techniques to channel their excess energy.
