Frontal Lobes
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactive disorder, involves the frontal lobes of the brain. The frontal lobes of the brain control how well people pay attention, focus and make decisions. However, much of the activity of the frontal lobes depends on portions of the brain that are actually inhibitory. These inhibitory portions of the frontal lobe keep patients from being hyperactive, impulsive, aggressive and unusually distracted. Thus, low levels of activity in the inhibitory portions of the brain can lead to ADHD.
ADHD and Dopamine
MentalHelp.net explains that ADHD is thought to be related to problems with a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that neurons secrete to alter the activity of other neurons. Neurotransmitters can either activate or inhibit the activity of other neurons. Dopamine predominantly activates other neurons. Too little dopamine can cause diminished activity in some parts of the brain. If low levels of dopamine occur in some of the inhibitory portions of the brain, it can lead to ADHD.
Stimulant Medications
It may seem contradictory to give stimulant medications to patients who suffer from hyperactivity. However, a 2004 article in MedicalNewsToday.com explains that stimulant medications are effective at treating ADHD because they increase the amount of dopamine in the brain. When these stimulant medications enhance dopamine release, they cause previously under-stimulated areas of the brain to regain their normal functionality. As a result, they can help correct some of the chemical abnormalities that can lead to ADHD.
