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ADHD is the general name for a behavioral disorder that is the most common cause of children’s visits to a psychologist or psychiatrist’s office. These diseases should not be underestimated, because – as the child grows older – they may inhibit the proper development of the child. Many factors influence the diagnosis of ADHD.
The onset of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) appears fairly early – usually up to the age of 5. The child is not persistent in his actions, he quickly gets bored with a new activity or toy. Starts performing several activities at once and does not end any of them.
ADHD occurs in 4-8% of children in early school age (6-9 years old), more often in boys than in girls. The incidence of this disease decreases with age – in the next 5-year age groups it is lower by 50%. However, some features of the syndrome persist even into adulthood (60%).
For some time it was believed that ADHD is more common in boys, but now more and more information indicates that girls also suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Contrary to boys, in whom the symptoms of hyperactivity usually play a dominant role, concentration disorders are more common in girls, which means that they may be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed at all.
The causes of ADHD
Several factors influence the occurrence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder:
- genetic predisposition (gene encoding D4 and D5 receptor);
- low activity of dopamine in mesolimbic and cortical structures;
- injuries in pregnancy;
- low birth weight;
- hypoxia of the baby during childbirth;
- weakened processes of neuronal inhibition;
- heavy metal poisoning;
- damage to the central nervous system;
- smoking by pregnant women;
- head injuries;
- neglect (e.g. not helping your child learn);
- improper diet containing too much preservatives, simple carbohydrates or artificial colors;
- taking psychoactive substances during pregnancy;
- FAS syndrome – occurs in pregnant women who abuse alcohol.
The symptoms are mainly related to:
- attention and concentration disorders – there is difficulty in focusing attention and listening to others, lack of attention to detail, constant distraction, forgetting something, lack of good organization; the child makes mistakes through his distraction; he cannot concentrate his attention on tasks that do not interest him. In addition, he has problems with performing planned activities, e.g. household duties – he postpones their performance until the last minute; he often loses all kinds of objects and toys, is unable to remember where he left a certain object. In addition, the child avoids performing activities that require him to be highly committed and long-term concentration; gives the impression that you are not listening to what is said to him;
- impulsiveness – the child often takes risky actions, is impatient, disturbs others, tries to constantly focus on himself; answers questions before someone has finished asking them; expresses his emotions and thoughts without thinking, completely disregarding whether or not this is “appropriate”; during group games he cannot patiently wait for his turn;
- hyperactivity – the baby is in constant motion – often pointless; in a situation when he has to stay in one place for some time, he starts to fidget, play, disconnect from activity; he cannot help but speak; often has difficulties in continuing the task that has been started and abandons it; unable to adapt behavior to the situation (it is often inappropriate); is unable to behave quietly during play, also it is difficult for him to rest in peace and quiet.
The above ADHD symptoms occur in each child with a different severity.
If your child develops symptoms suggesting ADHD, consult a child psychologist or psychiatrist. Early detection of behavioral disorders and their treatment prevents the child’s adaptation difficulties in the school and family environment from worsening.
Remember that it is now also possible to consult e.g. a child psychologist via the halodoctor.pl portal. The visit takes place online, so you do not have to leave the house with your child.
ADHD diagnosis
In order to make a proper diagnosis, the cooperation of several specialists is necessary: a psychologist, psychiatrist, pediatrician and sometimes a pediatric neurologist. It is very important to conduct an in-depth interview with the child’s parents, during which the specialist obtains information about his functioning both at home, at school and among his peers. Sometimes, for this purpose, it is necessary to provide the doctor’s office with a written opinion of the school pedagogue, teacher or educator who have daily contact with the patient. Sometimes, with the consent of the parents, the doctor contacts these persons in person. In addition, parents and teachers are asked to complete special questionnaires about the child.
You can also arrange a consultation with a child psychiatrist privately at the Arkmedic Medical Center. The visit takes place in conditions that are comfortable for the child, thanks to which the stress associated with the visit is minimized.
During the diagnosis, the psychologist performs special tests aimed at intellectual assessment of the child and his / her ability to remember, concentrate and associate. Motor fitness and coordination are also assessed.
Other medical conditions and mental health problems that may produce symptoms similar to those of ADHD should be ruled out. Therefore, a psychologist or a psychiatrist should differentiate ADHD from the following ailments:
- anxiety disorders,
- adaptation problems (new situations),
- behavioral disorders,
- mental retardation,
- bipolar disorder,
- obsessive compulsive disorder,
- trouble in mastering school skills.
According to researchers, almost 70 percent. children suffering from ADHD have at least one additional mental ailment. Typically, these are dyslexia, behavioral disorders, and anxiety disorders.
In addition, it should be ensured that the symptoms are not related to any neurological or somatic disorders. They include: side effects of certain medications, eye disorders, hearing disorders, epilepsy, lead poisoning, thyroid disorders, and the use of psychoactive substances, e.g. designer drugs.
ADHD treatment
The ADHD therapy regimen is developed individually for each child. It takes into account his age, general health, the depth and type of symptoms, and the susceptibility of a small patient to specific therapeutic procedures. The treatment program may include:
- psychotherapy,
- child therapy in a peer group,
- psychoeducational classes for parents,
- family therapy,
- pharmacological treatment.
It is mainly used in pharmacological treatment methylphenidatewhich is a psychostimulant drug. Responsible for the inhibition of dopamine secretion into the synapse and the reuptake of dopamine from the synaptic cleft. This measure has a calming effect on the child and at the same time improves his concentration. Importantly, it is reimbursed in Poland. Despite its positive aspects, it can have side effects in the form of: lack of appetite, sleep disorders and growth inhibition. May be addictive.
Another preparation is Atomoxetine Hydrochloride. They also work well alpha2-adrenergic receptor antagonistswhich lead to decreased noradrenaline secretion, as well as some certain antidepressants (SSRIs, TLPDs). In children showing aggressive behavior, it is administered haloperidol.
In addition to pharmacological treatment, psychotherapy and systematic work with a child suffering from ADHD are also important. His daily schedule should have an order and his child should be given short tasks to do.
Complementary therapeutic methods:
- family therapy (especially when there are conflicts in the family),
- training in dealing with aggression and anger (recommended for children showing aggression towards others),
- individual child psychotherapy (e.g. in the case of low self-esteem, emotional disorders),
- trainings helping to master school skills and improving motor coordination and concentration disorders (e.g. sensory integration).
A support in ADHD therapy is also the daily use of a Weighted Blanket, which helps soothe the nerves and gives a greater sense of security.
Note: In the USA, children with ADHD are prescribed amphetamines, but in Poland they are not used because they are highly addictive.
There are studies that claim that ADHD is over 70 percent of the time. cases in adolescence. However, it is not known why this is so.
ADHD and prognosis
Untreated disorders can cause health and emotional complications. A child left alone has problems at school, achieves results much lower than its abilities, is considered an untrained child, which is why it is often rejected by its peers. This results in low self-esteem and emotional problems that gradually increase. This is especially true among adolescents who, during their adolescence, may run into conflicts with the law and act deliberately to their own detriment. Adults with untreated ADHD are much more likely to experience problems in their professional and personal lives.
In 70 percent. of cases, ADHD symptoms persist in adolescence, and in up to 10 percent. in adulthood.
ADHD health complications:
- suicide attempts,
- addiction to cigarettes,
- alcohol and drug addiction,
- injuries (as a result of accidents, fights),
- anxiety disorders,
- depressive disorders,
- overeating leading to obesity,
- trouble sleeping.