ADHD Definition, Reason, Symptom, Treatment, Prevention
ADHD Definition
ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is better known as hyperactivity. ADHD is a developmental disorder in increasing children’s motor activity that can last into adulthood. This condition causes sufferers to tend to be hyperactive, impulsive, and difficult to focus.
Some of the complications that can occur in people with ADHD are learning disorders that interfere with academic achievement, increased incidence of accidents such as head trauma or fractures, low self-confidence, and difficulty interacting with other people, making them vulnerable to taking drugs or alcoholic beverages.
What is ADHD?
ADHD Diagnosis
To date, there is no single test that can diagnose ADHD. In general, to diagnose ADHD, a person must have symptoms that last more than six months. These symptoms must also appear in different situations.
Usually, the doctor will diagnose ADHD based on the guidelines from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. The doctor will also perform a vision and hearing examination. An additional test that may be performed is an electroencephalograph.
If ADHD occurs in adults, the doctor should take a history as a child and teenager. In addition, the doctor must also interview the spouse or husband, as well as conduct a neurologic examination.
ADHD Symptom
Symptoms that arise in the condition of ADHD can vary, ranging from mild to severe.
What can be seen from infancy:
• Sensitive to sound and light
• Often cries
• Likes to scream
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty consuming breast milk
• Not happy to be held
In older children:
• Always on the move or active
• Gets bored easily
• Seems awkward
• Often has accidents, such as falling or bumping
• Noisier than other children
• Lack of concentration
•
Irritability • Poor appetite • Poor
eye and hand coordination
• Likes to hurt oneself alone
• Having trouble sleeping
ADHD Treatment
Generally, ADHD is difficult to cure. What you can do is reduce symptoms so that the condition does not become a problem in everyday life.
If the symptoms are recurring, don’t panic and get emotional easily. Take your child to the doctor immediately for a consultation. Remember, patient behavior in handling children is the key to avoiding unwanted risks.
In children with ADHD:
• Provide highly nutritious food
• Invite children to communicate and tell stories
• Plan children’s day with quality activities
• Balance rest and children’s physical activity.
• Give the child clear instructions when you ask him to do something
• Keep sharp objects and fragile objects out of reach of children
If you have ADHD:
• Make a daily plan and try to always carry out the plan
• Do exercise regularly
• Find ways to be more relaxed
• Check with the doctor regularly
• If you have a job, discuss your condition with your boss and colleagues
Apart from these methods,
Some of the therapies that patients can also do:
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Drug therapy
The drugs that are usually given are methylphenidate, dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and atomoxetine drugs.
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Nutrition therapy and diet
People who suffer from ADHD should adopt a highly nutritious and balanced diet. Avoid consuming foods that contain preservatives or artificial coloring.
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Supplement
Several studies show that omega-3 and omega-6 can provide benefits for people with ADHD.
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Other therapies
Other therapies that can be done are psychoeducation, behavioral therapy, social therapy, to cognitive behavioral therapy.
ADHD Prevention
To prevent ADHD, what you should do is
- Avoid the risk factors
- Check with the doctor regularly during pregnancy and eat high nutritional foods
- Avoid foods that contain preservatives and artificial colors
- Don’t forget to exercise regularly and be diligent in drinking water
ADHD Reason
The exact cause of ADHD is not known. However, a number of studies reveal that ADHD can be caused by genetic or environmental disorders or non-genetics.
The following are some non-genetic factors that are believed to increase a person to suffer from ADHD:
• Mothers who smoked or consumed alcohol during pregnancy
• Mothers exposed to toxic substances from the environment
• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Child neglect, child abuse
• Chemicals in food, such as food coloring
• Lack of early detection