Certain tests may be used to rule out other conditions, and some may be used to test intelligence and certain skill sets. Because ADHD is a group of symptoms, diagnosis depends on evaluating results from several different sources, including physical, neurological, and psychological testing. A detailed history of the child's behavior from parents and teachers, observations of the child's behavior, and psychoeducational testing contribute to making the diagnosis of ADHD. A pediatrician, child psychiatrist, or a qualified mental health professional usually identifies ADHD in children. How is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosed?ĪDHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavior disorder of childhood. Always consult your child's doctor for a diagnosis. A key element in diagnosis is that the symptoms must significantly impair adaptive functioning in both home and school environments. Keep in mind that many of these symptoms may occur in children and teens who do not have ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD may resemble other medical conditions or behavior problems. Inability to stay on task shifts from one task to another without bringing any to completion Loses or forgets things repeatedly and often Has difficulty engaging in quiet activities Has difficulty remaining in his/her seat even when it is expectedįidgets with hands or squirms when in his or her seat fidgeting excessively Seems to be in constant motion runs or climbs, at times with no apparent goal except motion Takes frequent risks, and often without thinking before acting Tends to blurt out answers instead of waiting to be called upon Has difficulty waiting for his or her turn in school and/or social games Short attention span for age (difficulty sustaining attention) The 3 categories of symptoms of ADHD include the following: However, each child may experience symptoms differently. The following are the most common symptoms of ADHD. What are the symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder? Most families seek help when their child's symptoms begin to interfere with learning and adjustment to the expectations of school and age-appropriate activities. ADHD is commonly found in brothers and sisters within the same family. Many parents of children with ADHD experienced symptoms of ADHD when they were younger. Boys are 2 to 3 times more likely to have ADHD of the hyperactive or combined type than girls. Who is affected by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?Įstimates suggest that about 4% to 12% of children have ADHD. Brain imaging studies using PET scanners (positron emission tomography a form of brain imaging that makes it possible to observe the human brain at work) show that brain metabolism in children with ADHD is lower in the areas of the brain that control attention, social judgment, and movement. Low levels of dopamine (a brain chemical), which is a neurotransmitter (a type of brain chemical), are found in children with ADHD. Available evidence suggests that ADHD is genetic. However, the precise cause of the disorder is still unknown. What causes attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?ĪDHD is one of the most researched areas in child and adolescent mental health. Three major types of ADHD include the following:ĪDHD, combined type. This, the most common type of ADHD, is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors as well as inattention and distractibility.ĪDHD, impulsive/hyperactive type. This, the least common type of ADHD, is characterized by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without inattention and distractibility.ĪDHD, inattentive and distractible type. This type of ADHD is characterized predominately by inattention and distractibility without hyperactivity. Inattention or attention-deficit may not be evident until a child faces the expectations of elementary school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, when present, are almost always apparent by the age of 7 and may be present in very young preschoolers. These symptoms usually occur together however, one may occur without the other(s). ADHD, also called attention-deficit disorder, is a behavior disorder, usually first diagnosed in childhood, that is characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity.
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