A developmental disorder that starts during childhood, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also called ADHD, affects 4.5 million American children between the ages 5 and 17 as of 2006, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Three types of ADHD exist: predominantly inattentive ADHD, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive ADHD and combined ADHD. Patients with combined ADHD have hyperactive, impulsive and inattention symptoms. ADHD can also result in physical symptoms.
Fidgeting
ADHD patients who are hyperactive can have problems staying still in their seats. For example, the National Institute of Mental Health points out that patients fidget while seated. Patients may also squirm in their seat, finding it hard to stay still for a long period of time. This can happen at home during a meal or at school during class. MayoClinic.com notes that boys tend to have more hyperactivity symptoms than girls, and may become more disruptive with their behavior during class.
Inappropriate Climbing
Combined with problems staying still in their seats, ADHD patients may climb on objects at inappropriate times. MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, explains that during class, an ADHD patient may get out of his seat and run around the classroom. During recess, patients may climb on rocks, tables or other objects that could result in injury if they fall. The National Institute of Mental Health adds that children with ADHD may touch or play with anything they see.
Excessive Movement
Children with ADHD tend to be more active and always on the go. For example, MedlinePlus points out that patients seem to be "driven by a motor" resulting in high levels of activity. ADHD patients may have difficulty playing quietly alone or with other children, and have problems waiting their turn to play. The National Institute of Mental Health adds that the excessive movement may result in patients dashing around.
Constantly Talking
ADHD can cause children to talk excessively. The National Institutes of Health notes that patients may blurt out inappropriate comments. ADHD patients may interrupt other people when they are talking. When speaking, patients talk nonstop, without stopping between thoughts. MayoClinic.com adds that patients may also blurt out answers before a person has finished asking a question.
References
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder -- Data and Statistics
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) -- Symptoms
- MedlinePlus: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
