ADHD is a predominantly mental condition whose main features are inattentiveness and hyperactivity. While most children will have these traits at one point or the other in their life as they grow up, the diagnosis is only made when the behaviour displayed is inappropriate for the age of the child. There are a number of important things relating to ADHD Dallas residents need to have in mind if they have a relative with these features.
ADHD persist into adulthood in 50% of the cases. The half of involved of involved adults starts during or after adolescents. It is estimated that between two and five per cent of the general adult population is affected. After childhood, the symptoms may be a bit different with hyperactivity being replaced by restlessness. Affected persons frequently have difficulties forming and maintaining interpersonal relationships.
There are three main types of ADHD depending on the exact pattern of symptoms. The first type is characterised by symptoms of both impulsiveness or hyperactivity and inattentiveness. The second type is called inattentive ADHD and is characterised mainly by an impairment of concentration. In the past, it was known as ADD (attention-deficit disorder). The third type is characterised by impulsiveness or hyperactivity but is without inattentiveness.
The cause of this condition remains unclear but there are a number of theories that have been advanced. In one of the theories, the symptoms of the disorder are attributable to reduced brain volume in the affected individuals. The pre-frontal cortex located on the left side is said to be most affected by this shrinkage leading to what is known as frontal lobe dysfunction. Another explanation that has been put forward is that there is an abnormality in the dopamine system that affects the way these individuals respond to stimuli.
There are several risk factors that have been associated with this disorder. Ongoing studies suggest that there is a role for genetics. The environment also contributes albeit quite little. The environment includes what the child is exposed to while still in the uterus. Alcohol intake in pregnancy may lead to fetal alcohol syndrome whose symptoms resemble those of ADHD. Exposure to tobacco has also been found to be a big risk factor. Other things to be avoided include lead, organophosphates and dialkyl phosphate.
ADHD is frequently associated with other conditions. It only exists alone in 30% of cases. When combined with other conditions, the process of making a diagnosis and treating is extremely difficult. It is important to diagnose these comorbid conditions and to treat them separately. The commonest associated conditions include oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and sleep disorders.
A number of medications have been developed to manage this condition. These drugs are mainly stimulants. A non-stimulant known as atomoxetine is an alternative that may be considered. These drugs should not be used among pre-school children. Frequently encountered side effects include psychosis and drug-induced mania. It is important that periodic assessment is done to monitor for these side effects. Zn supplementation is frequently helpful.
To get more individualized help on ADHD Dallas residents can consult a psychologist or a qualified psychiatrist. They will be presented with the variety of options that can be used. If well managed, these persons recover and lead a near normal life.
ADHD persist into adulthood in 50% of the cases. The half of involved of involved adults starts during or after adolescents. It is estimated that between two and five per cent of the general adult population is affected. After childhood, the symptoms may be a bit different with hyperactivity being replaced by restlessness. Affected persons frequently have difficulties forming and maintaining interpersonal relationships.
There are three main types of ADHD depending on the exact pattern of symptoms. The first type is characterised by symptoms of both impulsiveness or hyperactivity and inattentiveness. The second type is called inattentive ADHD and is characterised mainly by an impairment of concentration. In the past, it was known as ADD (attention-deficit disorder). The third type is characterised by impulsiveness or hyperactivity but is without inattentiveness.
The cause of this condition remains unclear but there are a number of theories that have been advanced. In one of the theories, the symptoms of the disorder are attributable to reduced brain volume in the affected individuals. The pre-frontal cortex located on the left side is said to be most affected by this shrinkage leading to what is known as frontal lobe dysfunction. Another explanation that has been put forward is that there is an abnormality in the dopamine system that affects the way these individuals respond to stimuli.
There are several risk factors that have been associated with this disorder. Ongoing studies suggest that there is a role for genetics. The environment also contributes albeit quite little. The environment includes what the child is exposed to while still in the uterus. Alcohol intake in pregnancy may lead to fetal alcohol syndrome whose symptoms resemble those of ADHD. Exposure to tobacco has also been found to be a big risk factor. Other things to be avoided include lead, organophosphates and dialkyl phosphate.
ADHD is frequently associated with other conditions. It only exists alone in 30% of cases. When combined with other conditions, the process of making a diagnosis and treating is extremely difficult. It is important to diagnose these comorbid conditions and to treat them separately. The commonest associated conditions include oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and sleep disorders.
A number of medications have been developed to manage this condition. These drugs are mainly stimulants. A non-stimulant known as atomoxetine is an alternative that may be considered. These drugs should not be used among pre-school children. Frequently encountered side effects include psychosis and drug-induced mania. It is important that periodic assessment is done to monitor for these side effects. Zn supplementation is frequently helpful.
To get more individualized help on ADHD Dallas residents can consult a psychologist or a qualified psychiatrist. They will be presented with the variety of options that can be used. If well managed, these persons recover and lead a near normal life.
About the Author:
Read more about Basic Information Relating To ADHD Dallas Residents May Want To Know visiting our website.
No comments:
Post a Comment