Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition of the brain that can affect how you behave. It can make you hyperactive, impulsive, and/or make it hard to pay attention. These problems happen anywhere you go including home, school, or work. ADHD is often first noticed when you are a child. If you have mild symptoms you may not know you have ADHD until you are an adult.
There are 3 types of ADHD:
The exact cause of ADHD is not known. It is most likely caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain when it is growing. Your genes and factors in the environment may both have a role in these changes.
Factors that may increase your chances of developing ADHD include:
Parenting styles may affect the symptoms but do not cause ADHD.
Symptoms can vary according to the type of ADHD:
These symptoms are common in all children at some point. Children with ADHD have more severe symptoms that occur more often.
In adults, these symptoms can cause problems with relationships and work. They can make it difficult to do your job well or keep a job.
Certain mental health or behavior problems are more common in those with ADHD. Common issues include:
There is no standard test to determine if ADHD is present. A trained health professional will observe you or your child and collect information from the family, caregivers, and teachers.
The following information will also be helpful:
The doctor will also rule out any other conditions or problems that may be causing the symptoms.
ADHD is a lifelong condition but its effect can be managed with treatment. The goal of treatment is to improve the child's ability to grow, learn, and have relationships. Doctors should work together with parents, school staff, and other health professionals. Together, they can set realistic goals and keep an eye on the child's response. Proper treatment can prevent problems later in life.
Treatments include:
Children who do not sleep enough may suffer from worse behavioral problems. A key part of treatment is to ensure that children with ADHD get plenty of sleep. Below are the recommended hours of sleep from the American Academy of Pediatrics:
For children over 6 years of age, medications may be used alone or may be combined with therapy. They can help to control behavior and increase focus.
Stimulants are the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD. They increase activity in parts of the brain that seem to be less active in those with ADHD. Stimulant medications:
The doctor will work to find medication with the most benefit and least risk for each child.
Other medications that may be considered include:
Medication may not be the first choice to treat preschool children. Treatment may start with behavior therapy alone. Medication may be added if the first treatment plan is not working.
Therapy may be all that is needed for younger children. In children that need medication, therapy can help them do better.
Therapy will help by teaching new social and problem solving skills. Parents and teachers will also be shown ways to help their children adapt. This may include changes in the classroom, as well as changes to how they parent. For example, an air cushion on a child's seat at school allows the child to move their body without distracting other students. Moving their body may help them increase their attention span.
ADHD coaching can also be helpful for older children and adults. Coaches work with people to help them organize and be more successful.
Neurofeedback is a treatment that has shown some promise but is still being studied. This treatment shows brain wave patterns on a screen and gives a cue when attention starts to wander. The goal is to re-train the brain to avoid patterns that lead to distraction.
There are no current guidelines to prevent ADHD because the cause is unclear.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
About Kids Health—The Hospital for Sick Children
Canadian Psychiatric Association
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Last reviewed September 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrian Preda, MD
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