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Is your child hyperactive? |
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can cause serious disturbance to a child’s family life, schooling and social development. Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Most ‘normal kids’ have some symptoms of ADHD and it is often hard to be sure if a child has a problem.
ADHD is four times more common in boys and often runs in families. It is often associated with behaviour problems and learning difficulties.
Symptoms of ADHD
1. Inattention
The child has difficulty concentrating in work or play, flits from task to task and makes careless mistakes.
2. Impulsiveness
The child blurts out answers before questions are completed and often ‘butts into’ conversations or games.
3. Hyperactivity
The child is fidgety, squirms in the seat, is often ‘on the go’ and runs about or talks excessively.
Safe and effective treatment
If treatment is needed, it is very effective for children with ADHD. Families often benefit from advice on how to handle the child’s behaviour at home. Try to stay calm, praise and reward good behaviour, ignore minor irritating activities and set routines.
Remember, children with ADHD have subtle brain abnormalities and can’t help their behaviour.
Medications (eg dexamphetamine, methylphenidate) correct the chemical imbalance in the brain and work well in over 80% of cases. These drugs are very safe but sometimes cause reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping.Disclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor. Source: Winter 1998 Edition | Page 4
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