ADHD is a chronic bio-behavioral disorder that initially manifests in childhood and often persists into adulthood

approximately 8%-10% of children satisfy diagnostic criteria for ADHD ADHD occurs two (2) to four (4) times more commonly in boys than girls

(Phillips, D. MD, and John Mersch, MD, FAAP. 2010.Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (ADD). Retrieved from http://www.medicinenet.com/attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_adhd/article.htm# )

If untreated, the disorder can have long-term adverse effects into adolescence and adulthood.

No single cause has been identified but researchers considers:

Differences in the neurotransmitters cause ADHD. Neuroimaging studies suggest that the brains of children with ADHD are different from those of other children. Family stress. Educational difficulties.

Impulsiveness:

a person acts quickly without thinking first.

Blurts out answers before questions have been completed Difficulty awaiting turn Interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations or games) Buys unwanted things instantly

Hyperactivity:

a child who can't sit still, walks, runs, or climbs around when others are seated, talks when others are talking.

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations Difficulty playing quietly Often "on the go," acts as if "driven by a motor," talks excessively

Inattention:

a child who daydreams or seems to be in another world, is sidetracked by what is going on around him or her.

Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace Difficulty organizing tasks and activities Easily distracted Often forgetful in daily activities

Get a check up from psychiatrists, psychologists, developmental/behavioral pediatricians, behavioral neurologists, and clinical social workers.

check the childs school and medical records and talk to peers, teachers and other people with relation to the patient

children should have at least 6 attention symptoms or 6 activity and impulsivity symptoms The symptoms must be present for at least 6 months

ADHD cannot be completely cured but it can be managed through:

Behavioral therapy

Medications
Care and Understanding