ADHD Symptoms in Children: How to Identify

Nearly 10 percent of students in school are affected by ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Statistics say that boys have nearly three times higher odds of being diagnosed with ADHD than girls, although there have not been any scientific findings that explain why this happens. However, researchers say that ADHD may have links to the genetic build-up of an individual.

ADHD symptoms in children

ADHD is a neuro-biological disorder that affects the kid’s ability in performing tasks, balancing activity or regulating behavior. Typically, kids with ADHD are seen to have difficulties with remaining seated still for even reasonable spans of time, they do not think before they act and have troubles seeing through a task. ADHD children may even face functional problems at home or school, aside from their social relationships.

Generally, impulsiveness, hyperactivity and inattentiveness are seen as the predominant factors that are identified with childhood ADHD. These children find it difficult to wait in a line, control their anger or other emotions and finish a task due to their impulsiveness. The hyperactivity makes it tough for them to stay still or calm. The inattentiveness makes it difficult for them to focus or remember details. Then again, ADHD behaviors may vary when it comes to girls and boys. For instance, boys have a higher likeliness of being hyperactive, while many girls with ADHD may be inattentive, and yet quiet, due to which it may go undiagnosed.

ADHD signs

Childhood ADHD is diagnosed when the associated signs and symptoms are seen in a child for over six months. There are no dedicated medical tests that are used to diagnose the condition. Doctors diagnose it based on the standard Pediatrics guidelines, after monitoring the child’s information provided by parents, caregiver, and school. A neurologist, psychiatrist or pediatrician in a same day clinic may be consulted to do the diagnosis. Here are some signs that are seen in cases of childhood ADHD:

• Easily distracted
• Cannot play or do a task quietly
• Squirms or fidgets very often
• Fails to carry through on instructions, and thereby not completing given tasks such as chores or schoolwork
• Makes mistakes carelessly, and cannot pay attention to small details while working on something
• Has a forgetful nature
• Does not stay seated in classroom or other places where it is expected
• Appears as if not listening when spoken to
• Does not enjoy or avoids doing any task that requires consistent mental effort
• Is restless, and tends to run around or climb excessively
• Loses items like pencils, books or toys
• Has difficulties with waiting for turn
• Has troubles organizing things or tasks

How is childhood ADHD treated?

ADHD treatments vary depending on the diagnosis. The family doctor may suggest medicines in the form of psychostimulants or non-stimulant medication. They can be of short-term, intermediate-term or long-term acting capabilities. Behavioral therapy may be suggested in cases where the patients do not show any improvement in symptoms with medication. Either way, with treatment, children with AHDH can learn to manage their symptoms.

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