Hyperactivity, marked by too much muscle activity, affects both children and adults. Constant movement, impulsiveness, inability to concentrate, aggression, talkativeness and similar behaviors make up the symptoms of hyperactivity. Hyperactive children often find themselves labeled as disruptive or having behavioral problems, but medical causes of hyperactivity exist and can be treated. The leading causes of hyperactivity include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, hyperthyroidism and bipolar disorder.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, impacts children and adolescents, and may persist through to adulthood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD symptoms include hyperactivity, difficulty controlling behavior and problems staying focused. Genetics play an important role in the cause of ADHD, but it can also be caused by environmental factors like use of cigarettes and alcohol during pregnancy, brain injuries, too much sugar and food additives like artificial color and preservatives.
ADHD treatments focus on improving function and reducing symptoms, including hyperactivity.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, also known as "overactive thyroid," occurs when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. It results in hyperactivity as evidenced by nervousness, restlessness and hand tremors, among other symptoms. Hyperthyroidism may go away of its own accord, but often medical intervention is needed and usually successful.
Treatments for Hyperthyroidism and the accompanying hyperactivity include antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine to destroy the thyroid and thyroid removal surgery.
Bipolar Disorder
Brain disorders, like bipolar disorder, include hyperactivity as a symptom and are often mistaken for ADHD in children and adults. Bipolar disorder presents with both manic and depressive periods. These manic episodes feature hyperactivity with high levels of energy, as well as impulsive behavior, decreased need for sleep and euphoria.
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that needs medical intervention to control in most cases. Mood stabilizers can control mood swings, leveling out hyperactivity.
