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Posts for tag: ADHD
Parents want the best for their child, which is why check-ups and appointments with their pediatricians are so important. Yet your pediatrician isn’t just available for when your child is sick or has physical ailments. They can also help with mental and behavioral conditions, including the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. If your child struggles with focus, impulsivity, attention, or hyperactivity, schedule them for an evaluation. It’s also important to note that children must be at least four years old for a diagnosis.At the appointment with your child’s pediatrician, they’ll want you and others to fill out a questionnaire about your child’s behavior. Symptoms need to be present in multiple settings, like at home and school and cause issues at both.
While most children will exhibit moments of acting out, being rambunctious or having difficulty concentrating, it’s important for a parent to be able to tell when their child’s everyday habits and behaviors are just a passing phase or when they might be the result of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
What is ADHD?
This neurodevelopmental disorder can cause a lot of disruptions and problems for school-age children if it isn’t addressed right away. Of course, it isn’t always easy to figure out whether the behaviors your child is exhibiting are truly because of ADHD. After all, most people assume that all children with ADHD have problems with impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattentiveness; however, some kids with ADHD may not be able to pay attention in class but never show signs of hyperactivity, while other children may be hyperactive and impulsive but have no trouble concentrating.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
Children with ADHD won’t have difficulty concentrating on the things they like; however, when they are given tasks at home or at school that they don’t like they have trouble completing it. They may immediately jump around to other tasks before ever finishing the first one. They may have trouble focusing and become easily distracted by their environment.
Some children with ADHD may also be hyperactive. While children certainly have a lot of natural energy, hyperactive children can’t ever seem to sit still. These are the children who have trouble remaining in their chairs, often needing to move around the classroom, or they can be seen fidgeting and squirming.
Impulsivity is another aspect of ADHD in children. Children with impulsivity issues have difficulty controlling their emotions. They can be short-tempered or prone to outbursts and tantrums. Children with ADHD may also be more likely to shout out the answers before waiting to be called on or they may interrupt people while they are talking.
Is it ADHD?
Even if your child is displaying these behaviors it’s important to keep in mind that there are a variety of other conditions and factors that can cause these same symptoms. Of course, your little one should visit a pediatrician for an evaluation if they are exhibiting these behaviors. This visit won’t be to just diagnose ADHD, but we will also want to rule out other issues such as physical conditions, mental health disorders, behavioral disorders, learning disabilities and even major life stressors that could bring about these unwanted behaviors.
How is ADHD treated?
While medication is often prescribed, this isn’t the only way to manage ADHD. A pediatrician will also recommend a variety of options including behavioral therapy, counseling, educational assistance and at-home skill building techniques.
If you suspect that your child might have ADHD, it’s the perfect time to pick up the phone and call a children’s doctor for a thorough medical consultation.
We all want the best for our children. It’s only natural to hope your child succeeds in school, enjoys social activities and leads a happy life. Yet, 
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can prevent that from happening. The three main symptoms of ADHD are:
- Inattention Â- The child has a hard time paying attention. They are easily distracted, often daydream, and are not very organized.
- Hyperactivity - The child can’t sit still, has a hard time staying seated, and talks without stopping.
- Impulsivity Â- The child appears rude, interrupts when others are talking, is impatient, and acts without thinking.
Don’t All Kids Act That Way?
Yes, all children behave this way from time to time. This is normal, and not cause for alarm. When a child has ADHD, however, this behavior pattern happens more often, is more severe and it gets in the way of leading a normal life. Sometimes children can go through a phase that resembles this disorder. Other times behavior modification can correct the issue
When to See a Doctor
Since many children do behave in ways that are similar to a child who has ADHD, you will need professional help to make certain they have the disorder. A pediatrician will put the child through a series of tests. The doctor will also get information from your child’s school and daycare. Your child will get a physical examination to rule out anything that might be causing the behavior.
ADHD is Not an Imaginary Disorder
There are still people that believe ADHD is an imaginary condition used to explain an unruly child. If you have any doubts at all, you can talk with any elementary school teacher to hear the truth. If they have taught for more than a year, they have most likely worked with students who have ADHD. The teacher can tell you first hand the dramatic difference that is made when a child with ADHD begins getting the treatment they need.
Don’t rely on anyone other than a medical professional to determine whether your child has ADHD or not. Getting the help of a pediatrician can only lead to a better outcome and a happier outlook for your child!