What Is ADHD in Villa Park, IL?
According to the Centers for Disease Control or CDC, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, more commonly known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder often diagnosed in childhood.
Types of ADHD
There are three types of ADHD, each with different characteristics:
- Predominantly inattentive presentation, which is characterized by difficulty paying attention
- Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, which is characterized by difficulty staying still
- Combined presentation, which is a combination of inattentive and hyperactive presentations.
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD
Your child may have ADHD if you notice that your child is:
- Frequently squirming and fidgeting
- Using repetitive motions like foot-tapping
- Unable to sit still
- Inappropriately climbing or running
- Excessively talking or blurting out
- Having difficulty focusing on details
- Having difficulty listening and following directions
- Having difficulty getting or staying organized
- Frequently forgetting or losing things
- Being distracted easily
Diagnosis of ADHD
If you notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, your child could benefit from an ADHD screening provided by your pediatrician. ADHD is typically diagnosed using a checklist that rates ADHD symptoms present in your child. A history of your child’s behavior is taken from parents, teachers, and others around your child.
Treatment of ADHD
When a diagnosis of ADHD is established, your pediatrician may recommend a combination of treatments and therapies, which can include:
- Behavioral therapy, to encourage less inappropriate behaviors and to teach your child impulse control strategies
- Lifestyle modifications, to promote good health through a diet high in nutrients, and regular exercise
- Medication therapy, to improve how your child’s brain functions, sharpen focus and enhance your child’s ability to concentrate
Consequences of Untreated ADHD
If ADHD goes untreated, signs and symptoms can persist when your child becomes and teen and an adult. Serious consequences may result including difficulty with relationships, problems making and keeping friends, and poor performance at work or school.