Hyperactivity Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Hyperactivity is a condition in which a person becomes more active than usual. This disorder is characterized by increased movement, aggressive behavior, impulsive behavior, and easily disturbed.
People with hyperactivity can also experience other problems due to difficulty concentrating and sitting still.
For example, difficulty focusing on studying, working, or affecting relationships with family and friends.
However, hyperactivity is actually not a disease in itself. This is a sign of certain health conditions.
Therefore, it is important to carry out further evaluation to determine whether there is a health condition that underlies hyperactivity.
Symptom
In children, hyperactivity can cause difficulty concentrating at school.
In addition, children with hyperactivity can also show impulsive behavior such as:
- Speak without waiting for your turn
- Say things spontaneously
- Hit his friend
- Seems significantly more active than his friends
In adults, hyperactivity can be characterized by the following symptoms:
- Difficulty concentrating while doing work
- Trouble remembering names, numbers, or other pieces of information
Reason
Hyperactivity can occur as a result of certain health problems. Some conditions that can cause hyperactivity are:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Hyperthyroidism
- Abnormalities of the nervous system or brain
- Certain mental disorders
- Psychological problems
Risk Factors
Given that the causes of hyperactivity due to ADHD are unknown, the risk factors are less clear.
However, this condition appears more often in men than in women.
Those with ADHD often have other health problems, such as learning disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, depression, etc.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of hyperactivity can be determined through a detailed medical interview and physical examination directly by a doctor.
The doctor can ask about the initial signs and symptoms, as well as whether there are other changes in the patient from a health standpoint.
The doctor will also ask if there are certain medicines that are consumed regularly.
In addition, because hyperactivity can be a sign of another underlying health condition, the doctor will carry out a further evaluation to determine the possibility of other health problems.
Treatment
Several health conditions can cause hyperactivity, such as disorders of the thyroid, nervous system and brain, and mental health disorders.
Therefore, the doctor will provide treatment and therapy according to the underlying health condition.
In addition, hyperactivity can also be caused by several types of mental health disorders.
In this condition, you are advised to consult a mental health specialist, to determine the conditions you are experiencing.
Once diagnosed, treatment or therapy can be carried out according to recommendations from a mental health specialist to control hyperactivity.
One of the therapies that is often applied to patients with hyperactivity is psychotherapy. This therapy includes several types, for example:
- Behavior therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (aimed at changing thought patterns and behaviors related to hyperactivity)
- Family therapy
- Parenting skills therapy
- Interventions for Behavior in the Classroom
- Techniques for stress management
- Support group
In addition, drug therapy is also often recommended by doctors. Medicines to help with symptoms of hyperactivity are generally recommended for children over the age of 6, in combination with psychotherapy.
Hyperactivity medications that may be prescribed are:
- Stimulant to increase dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain so that it helps concentration and mindset. This drug works quickly. For example, methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine.
- Non-stimulants, which work longer, but their effects also last longer (up to 24 hours). For example, atomoxetine, guanfacine, and clonidine.
Prevention
The cause of hyperactivity is not known with certainty. Therefore, there is no known method that is completely effective for preventing this condition.
Complications
If hyperactivity is not handled properly, various complications can arise, such as:
- Learning disorders
- Communication disorder
- Fear and anxiety that can cause anxiety disorders
- Depression
When to See a Doctor?
Try to consult further with the doctor if the child:
- Seemed hyperactive all the time
- Very active, aggressive, impulsive and difficult to concentrate
- Your little one’s activity is excessive, causing problems socializing or learning at school