Friday, January 10, 2014

Some Fundamental Facts On ADHD Dallas Residents Should Know

By Marissa Velazquez


ADHD is the short form for Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder which is a mental disorder in which the victim has problems with taking control of their behaviour and remaining attentive. The disorder usually affects children but may also occur in adolescence and adulthood. It is not easy to make the diagnosis in the early stages but there are a number of signs that are you need to look out for. The following article outlines important facts on ADHD Dallas occupants may find beneficial.

The symptoms start by age 6 to 12. Note that he condition can only be correctly diagnosed when these symptoms are present for more than half a year. This is disorder is more common in boys than girls. About thirty to fifty percent of people have the disorder in childhood proceeding to adulthood. Statistics also show that only about two to five percent of affected children have the disease as adults. This means that most children will improve whether or not treatment is undertaken.

In general, there are three broad subtypes of this condition. The classification is based on the pattern of symptomatology. The first type is the combined type. This type has symptoms of both hyperactivity and inattentiveness. The second type, the inattentive type, is characterised by lapses in concentration. It was known as attention deficit disorder in the past. The third type is called the hyperactive-impulsive type which has hyperactivity features but inattentiveness is not seen.

Hyperactive children tend to talk a lot, are unsettled and have problems handling tasks that involve silence and limited immobility. On the other hand, impulsivity in children is manifested by impatience and tendency to interrupt conversations or activities. Broadly, affected persons have challenges not only in anger control but also speech, language and motor development.

The cause of this condition remains unclear but there are a number of theories that have been advanced. In one of the theories, the symptoms of the disorder are attributable to reduced brain volume in the affected individuals. The pre-frontal cortex located on the left side is said to be most affected by this shrinkage leading to what is known as frontal lobe dysfunction. Another explanation that has been put forward is that there is an abnormality in the dopamine system that affects the way these individuals respond to stimuli.

The management of this disorder involves counselling, medication or a combination of the two. Stimulant drugs are the treatment of choice in ADHD and their work by providing a calming effect to the victims. Such drugs have potential for abuse and should be discontinued regularly to assess need for further medication.

Drugs are contraindicated in pre-school children. Possible side effects include mania and psychosis. Behavioural therapy is recommended for pre-school children with mild symptoms. This should be carried out by parents as well as teachers.

Children with this disorder need direction and understanding from parents, guardians and teachers in order to attain their full potential. Parents are encouraged to motivate such children by recognising their strengths and abilities. Having been equipped with essential information concerning ADHD Dallas residents are better placed in handling victims.




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