It is usual for anyone to experience difficulty being attentive now and then. However, when the trouble concentrating is constant, you may have an attention disorder. Some facilities have been developed to deal with an Ann Arbor attention disorder. These disorders may lead to a decrease in the quality of life or affect how your child grows. More about attention disorders and how they affect people is discussed below.
What are Attention Disorders?
The most common attention disorder is Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. ADHD affects many children as it progresses into their adult years. ADHD involves various recurring issues like hyperactivity, difficulty sustaining attention, and impulsive behavior.
Children affected by ADHD may have trouble with relationships, low self-esteem, and poor school performance. Most people outgrow their ADHD symptoms or learn strategies to cope with them.
ADHD treatment is not for a cure but to manage the symptoms. This treatment includes behavioral interventions and medications. The outcomes are greatly determined by early diagnosis and treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
The most predominant symptoms include hyperactive-impulsive behavior and inattention. These symptoms may start before twelve years, while some extreme cases begin at three years. The symptoms may vary from minimal to severe as they progress into adulthood.
ADHD happens more often in men than women, with behaviors varying. Boys may be hyperactive, while girls prefer being quietly inattentive.
There are three kinds of ADHD:
· Predominantly impulsive or hyperactive
· Predominantly inattentive
· A mix of impulsive/hyperactive and inattentive symptoms
Causes
The primary cause of ADHD is not known. However, some factors that are likely to cause an effect include the environment, genetics, or central nervous system problems at crucial moments in development.
The risk factors for getting ADHD are :
· Exposure to environmental toxins like lead found in pipes and paint in buildings
· Having a blood relative such as a sibling with ADHD or another mental disorder
· Premature birth
· Maternal alcohol use, drug use, or smoking when pregnant
ADHD makes life challenging for children as they:
· Tend to have more injuries and accidents compared to other kids without ADHD
· Often have school difficulties resulting in academic failure
· They are more likely to have challenges interacting with adults and peers
· Tend to be with low self-esteem
· Have a higher chance of delinquent behavior like drug and alcohol use
ADHD can coexist with other conditions like:
· Conduct disorder
· Oppositional defiant disorder
· Learning disabilities
· Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
· Anxiety disorders
· Substance use disorders
· Autism spectrum disorder
· Mood disorders
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis for ADHD involves:
· Information gathering
· A medical exam
· Interviews or questionnaires
· ADHD rating scales
Treatment may involve stimulant medications like methylphenidates and amphetamines. Other medicines used include guanfacine, atomoxetine, and antidepressants like bupropion.
Another treatment method involves therapies like:
· Social skills training
· Behavior therapy
· Psychotherapy
· Family therapy
ADHD may be overlooked when kids grow up due to typical children’s behavior. It is advisable to get qualified physicians’ opinions before jumping to any conclusions. For any ADHD inquiries, check out our website or call our Ann Arbor, MI offices.
