Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a chronic condition that affects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. A person with ADHD has differences in brain development and brain activity that affect attention, the ability to sit still and self-control.
Hyperactivity is not easily defined. It often depends on the observer. Behavior that seems excessive to one person may not seem excessive to another. The exact cause of this disease is not clear but there is strong evidence that ADHD is mostly inherited. Some of the factors may include exposure to environmental toxins, maternal drug use, alcohol use or smoking during pregnancy and premature birth. Eating too much sugar, poor parenting and too much screen time are not the reason for having ADHD.
ADHD symptoms start before 12 years of age and noticeable as early as 3 years of age. It can be mild, moderate or severe. Signs of having ADHD are:
- Inattentive- Children are easily distracted. They fail to pay attention, focus and staying on task. They appear not to listen well to directions, may seem absent minded or forgetful and lose track of their things.
- Hyperactive- A child who shows a pattern of hyperactive symptoms may often fidgety, restless and bored. They may run around, climb and jump in situations when it’s not appropriate. Children act in ways that disrupt others
- Impulsive- Children who have difficulty waiting for his/her turn. They often blurt out answers, might push or grab and do things without asking for permission. They may have emotional reactions that seem too intense for the situation.
ADHD can affect a child at school, at home or with friends. It can result to low self-esteem, troubled relationships and poor performance. If you think your child has this disease, make an appointment with your child’s doctor. The right treatment helps ADHD improve.
As we celebrate the National Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Awareness we must be conscious on how to prevent ADHD especially for the incoming parent. Be involved by following the schedule of checkups, eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep and doing exercises. Avoid anything that could harm fetal development. Work together to help your child do well. (AAVIConstantino/OIC-NPCFlores)
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889?p=1
