Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Overview

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders in children, which can also affect adults. Interestingly, and frequently, adults who have ADHD are diagnosed when they find out their children have ADHD. Thus, the problem is found to be running in families.

ADHD is more common in boys than in girls. People with ADHD have trouble paying attention at school, at home or at work. Even when they try to concentrate, they find it hard to pay attention. Children suffering from it may be a lot more active and/or impulsive than normal. For this reason, such children are sometimes seen as "difficult" or having behavioural problems. Their parents, teachers and caretakers have a hard time getting them to organise things, listen to instructions, remember details and control their behaviour. As a result, they often cannot get along with other people at home, school or work.

Common symptoms of ADHD include making careless mistakes, failing to complete tasks, difficulty in keeping track of things, becoming easily distracted, etc. Difficulty with hyperactivity can include excessive fidgetiness and squirminess, running around, excessive talking and being constantly on the go. Impulsivity can show up as impatience, difficulty awaiting one's turn, blurting out answers and frequent interrupting. Children with ADHD may also suffer from low self-esteem, troubled relationships and poor performance in school. Symptoms sometimes lessen with age. However, some people never completely overcome their ADHD symptoms.

A treatment involving homeopathic medicines and behavioural interventions can help to a great extent with the symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in the outcome.

Incidence:

• Nearly 20% children have some form of ADHD, ranging from mild to severe.
• Males are almost three times more likely than females to be diagnosed with ADHD.
• The average age of ADHD diagnosis is seven years. Symptoms of ADHD, typically, first appear between the ages of three and six.

Causes: Heredity, mothers smoking tobacco or consuming alcohol during pregnancy can cause ADHD in children. For other possible causes of ADHD, Read more.

Symptoms: The symptoms of ADHD can be categorised into three types – inattention, hyperactivity; and impulsivity. To know more on each of these symptoms, Read more.

Diagnosis: While ADHD can easily be identified on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms as well as feedback from the parents, to confirm the diagnosis, some tests might be suggested by our doctors. Read more.

Treatment approach at Dr Batra’s™:

Step 1: First Consultation – At your first consultation, our pediatricians will spend 30-45 minutes with you and your child to understand the root cause of ADHD. We also take into account your child’s medical history and lifestyle. Depending on all these factors, our doctors suggest customized treatment that best suits your problem.

Step 2: Medical Diagnosis – While ADHD can easily be identified on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms as well as feedback from parents, teachers and caretakers of the child, to confirm the diagnosis, some tests might be suggested.

Step 3: Personalized Treatment - Natural homeopathic medicines are recommended based on the diagnosis made and extent of the condition.

Step 4: Advice on nutrition – Our doctors also consult you on right nutrition that you can provide your child, which will help us achieve better treatment results. Read more.