ADHD - Everything You Need to Know

Children are often active, fidgety, and distracted. But, if they don’t grow out of these behaviors, they could be exhibiting signs of ADHD. 

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed in children that often lasts into adulthood. 

At Tots N Teens Pediatrics, we provide comprehensive evaluations and treatment plans for ADHD and help parents become better equipped to handle this diagnosis. Here are the most important things you should know about ADHD:

ADHD Signs and Symptoms

ADHD is characterized by a wide range of ongoing behavioral patterns that include:

Lack of Focus

• Children have a hard time concentrating and focusing on tasks for longer periods. 
• They will have trouble following instructions and keeping deadlines.
• They generally dislike projects that take mental effort.
• They get easily distracted and lose interest in tasks.
• They often end up losing stuff like toys or books.

Hyperactivity

• Children are not able to sit still for long, they keep fidgeting.
• They won’t usually be silent when engaged in activities or hobbies.
• They keep interrupting people in the middle of a conversation.
• They’re talkative and have trouble waiting for their turn in any situation.

Impulsivity 

• Children have trouble resisting temptation.
• They will jump headfirst into any situation.
• They are always ready for action.
• They make hasty decisions without worrying about consequences.
• They want things now and don’t have the patience to wait. 

Types of ADHD

For easier diagnosis, the American Psychological Association has classified ADHD into three categories: 

• predominantly inattentive
• predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
• and a combination of both.

Predominantly Inattentive Type

With this type of ADHD, children have a hard time focusing on tasks and completing them. They are unable to follow instructions, pay attention to details, or organize things. They easily forget things and tasks, but they’re not disruptive. 

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

Children with this type of ADHD are impulsive and hyperactive in nature. They can’t sit still in one place. They will fidget, squirm, and talk endlessly. They will make important decisions rashly without thinking about long-term effects. They’re more likely to make mistakes and have accidents.

Combined Type

Children with this type of combined ADHD exhibit symptoms of both ADHD types.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose ADHD, professionals follow a series of comprehensive evaluations. They also look at a child’s health history, past behavior patterns, and conduct interviews with parents before the final diagnosis.

The treatment for ADHD generally involves behavior therapy, medication, or both. There is no permanent cure for ADHD but following a routine and a healthy diet helps with the symptoms.

If you want to know more about ADHD and available treatment plans, contact Tots N Teens Pediatrics to schedule an appointment.