What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, a disorder in which the brain reacts to external stimulation with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. Although everyone experiences these traits to some degree, children with ADHD experience them with severity and frequency. This behavior can interfere with their everyday life.
Inattention
Children with ADHD often have difficulty concentrating for long periods of time. They may lose their belongings often and leave their rooms, desks, and other living spaces disorganized. These behaviors aren’t due to misbehavior or defiance; they’re a product of how the brain quickly switches focus.
Hyperactivity
Children with ADHD are often in constant motion and tend to talk a lot, even when it’s not appropriate. Their constant movement and behaviors often leave friends, parents, and caretakers feeling exhausted.
Impulsiveness
A child with ADHD typically will not rationalize a situation before saying or doing something. They often act on it immediately, without thinking through the long-term consequences. These children may interrupt people, change the subject of conversation, or make rash decisions based on immediate gratification.
How do doctors diagnose ADHD?
The physicians at TLC Pediatrics Medical Group will thoroughly evaluate your child to determine if he or she exhibits the behaviors necessary for diagnosis. For an ADHD diagnosis, the symptoms must be:
- An ongoing issue
- Disruptive to the child’s daily functioning
- Causing delayed development
- Unattributed to another condition
Once Dr. Carruth makes a proper diagnosis, he can recommend a treatment plan.
How is ADHD treated?
There is no cure for ADHD, but your pediatrician can help you manage the child’s symptoms with several approaches including:
Medication
Although it seems counterintuitive, your pediatrician may prescribe a stimulant for your child because it increases the chemicals in the brain that improve focus. He may also suggest antidepressants to target the symptoms of ADHD or offset the side effects of stimulants. You will work closely with your pediatrician to find the right medication and dosage for your child.
Psychotherapy
Behavior therapy may help improve your child’s self-regulation skills. Your therapist can teach your child appropriate behavior for social situations and provide them with tools to retrain their thought patterns.
Education
Our pediatricians can help you and your family understand the effects of ADHD. Awareness and education make it easier for parents and children with ADHD to relate to one another and regulate behavior.
If your child shows indications of ADHD, call today or visit the TLC Pediatrics Medical Group, Inc website to schedule an evaluation.
