Uncovering the Truth of ADHD
According to the CDC, or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are an estimated 6.4 million children suffering from ADHD or ADD in the United States alone. Around the world, ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is the most prevalent disorder in children. Keep reading to learn more about this extremely prevalent condition and how you can help yourself or your child.
TYPES OF ADHD
There are currently three recognized types of ADHD – inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. There are significant differences in the diagnosis and treatments of these three iterations of the disorder.
Inattentive ADHD is what was formerly known as ADD, or attention deficit disorder. However, in May 2013, the American Psychiatric Association released the DSM-5, or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. This new edition to the DSM eliminated the classification of ADD and replaced it with inattentive ADHD. Children with inattentive ADHD are unable to pay attention but are not impulsive or hyperactive.
ADHD SYMPTOMS
ADHD symptoms vary from individual to individual, but possible signs include:
ADHD RISK FACTORS: UNCOVERING THE TRUTH
There are many untruths surrounding the causes of ADHD in both children and adults. First, let’s take a look at what does not cause ADHD.
Myths
The following have been proven through scientific research to not cause ADHD:
- Poor parenting
- Poverty
- Playing video games
- Watching television
- Consuming an excess of sugar
- Artificial food dyes and preservatives
Facts
Here is the truth about ADHD risk factors:
- If a mother or father has ADHD, his or her children are more likely to have the neurobehavioral disorder
- This connection exists within the DRD4 gene which affects your brain’s dopamine receptors
- According to the CDC, the most significant environmental factors which increase the risk of ADHD are prenatal exposure to alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy
- Other environmental factors such as exposure to neurotoxic chemicals like organophosphate pesticides and lead also affect children’s neurodevelopment negatively
ADHD DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a single test will not suffice. A doctor will assess the symptoms of you or your child over the course of six months and then complete a physical exam to assess health. With a diagnosis, someone suffering from ADHD can receive medication, behavioral therapies like talk therapy or behavioral therapy, or both therapy and medication.
SCHEDULE YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION TODAY
For more information on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or any of our other services, please do not hesitate to contact us today at 800-Novomed (800-668-6633). We look forward to the opportunity to help you and your family.