Does Your Child Have ADHD or is simply naughty?

It is normal for children to have difficulty in focusing at one time or another. But in children with ADHD the symptoms can cause difficulty at school, at home, or with peers. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder comprising of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with normal functioning of the child. ADHD is one of the most common neuro development disorders of childhood.  Some forms of ADHD only have inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity, while others have the combined type of ADHD.

Three Major Types of ADHD with some common symptoms observed are:

Predominantly inattentive (ADHD/I)

1. Difficulty paying attention
2. Struggles to concentrate and complete tasks forgetful and easily distracted
3. Poor organizational skills, lethargic, sluggish, shy, anxious or constantly daydreaming

Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive ADHD (ADHD/HI)

1. Difficulty controlling behavior, with an increased risk for serious aggressive or oppositional behavior and antisocial conduct.
2. Fidgety and excessively restless.
3. Blurt out comments that are inappropriate and often do not think before they act.
4. Diagnosed if six or more symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity have persisted for more than six months.

Combined ADHD

Combines symptoms of the other two forms of ADHD:

1. The most common form of ADHD.
2. Diagnosed usually in boys of elementary-school age.
3. Diagnosed when six or more symptoms associated with each of the two major forms of ADHD are present.

Early diagnosis and management is crucial for these children. The condition can be diagnosed when appropriate guidelines are used. The treatment of ADHD involves a multimodal approach including:

1. Medication
2. Behavior therapy
3. Educational intervention

Children and ADHD along with medical therapy need appropriate guidance and understanding from their families and teachers to reach their full potential and to succeed in life.