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This month we will be talking about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder! Also known as ADHD
There are multiple types of ADHD. There are three different ways ADHD presents itself, depending on which types of symptoms are strongest in the individual:
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: It is hard for the individual to organize or finish a task, to pay attention to details, or to follow instructions or conversations. The person is easily distracted or forgets details of daily routines.
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: The person fidgets and talks a lot. It is hard to sit still for long (e.g., for a meal or while doing homework). Smaller children may run, jump or climb constantly. The individual feels restless and has trouble with impulsivity. Someone who is impulsive may interrupt others a lot, grab things from people, or speak at inappropriate times. It is hard for the person to wait their turn or listen to directions. A person with impulsiveness may have more accidents and injuries than others.
Combined Presentation: Symptoms of the above two types are equally present in the person.
A child with ADHD might: • daydream a lot • forget or lose things • squirm or fidget • talk too much • make careless mistakes or take unnecessary risks • have a hard time resisting temptation • have trouble taking turns • have difficulty getting along with others
How is it Diagnosed?
There is no one test to diagnose ADHD, there are multiple symptoms involved that can also be symptoms of other diagnosis. The first step is to schedule a visit with you MD and complete a VISION and HEARING exam
In the school setting, the school nurse may use a tool called the Vanderbilt Scale to calculate how many symptoms your student is presenting with at home and at school. This helps inform your child’s MD when taking them in for their appointment.
Treatments
In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination of behavior therapy and medication. For preschool-aged children (4-5 years of age) with ADHD, behavior therapy, particularly training for parents, is recommended as the first line of treatment before medication is tried. What works best can depend on the child and family. Good treatment plans will include close monitoring, follow-ups, and making changes, if needed, along the way.
Managing Symptoms: Staying Healthy
Being healthy is important for all children and can be especially important for children with ADHD. In addition to behavioral therapy and medication, having a healthy lifestyle can make it easier for your child to deal with ADHD symptoms. Here are some healthy behaviors that may help:
Developing healthy eating habits such as eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and choosing lean protein sources
Participating in daily physical activity based on age
Limiting the amount of daily screen time from TVs, computers, phones, and other electronics
Getting the recommended amount of sleep each night based on age
For more information on services for children with special needs, visit the Center for Parent Information and Resources. To find the Parent Center near you, you can visit this website.
Resources!
BONUS! Do you know the benefits of Calcium? -Strong bones and teeth! -Helps blood clot normally! -Strong muscles like your heart muscle!
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