ADHD in Children: Symptoms and Medication

As a parent, do you think your child has ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? ADHD in children is a developmental disorder in the brain that can affect your child’s focus and self-control. According to studies, around 10% of U.S. children between 4 to 17 years old suffer from common behavioral disorders. In most cases, the issue remains undiagnosed in children, affecting their lives upto adulthood. In some cases, the symptoms get reduced with age. The health concern comes along with its risk factors in different phases of life. Therefore, it’s vital to keep an eye on your kid and see a doctor immediately if you feel the need. ADHD is not curable, but early diagnosis and treatment can help your child successfully manage the symptoms. ADHD treatment involves prescribed medicines as well as therapies. At Global Care Meds, order the best quality ADHD medicines under your doctor’s prescription. Some of the meds include Artvigil 50, Artvigil 150, Artvigil 250 and Waklert 50, Waklert 150. These medicines, available in different doses of 50, 150, and 250, are prescribed based on specific needs.

How ADHD Affects Children

ADHD hits children with its attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder symptoms, especially before the child reaches seven years. The neurodevelopmental disorder hinders the children’s spontaneous responses to any situation. Children with ADHD tend to be out of focus and forgetful. These kids can’t sit still, don’t follow instructions, or don’t listen carefully. ADHD kids (without a diagnosis) are often termed as indisciplined, lazy, or mischief-makers. Children are diagnosed with any of the three types of ADHD: 1. impulsive/hyperactive; inattentive and distractable; and 3. Combined.

ADHD Symptoms in Children

Symptoms appear different in each ADHD child. These kids face trouble when paying attention. A child with ADHD is always hyperactive and impulsive. The symptoms can occur together or individually. Some of the most common ADHD symptoms in kids include,

Hyperactivity 

1. Always in motion with no clear objective
2. Can’t sit still
3. Constant hand movements or squirms when seated
4. Extremely talkative
5. Can’t do things quietly
6. Forgets often
7. Regularly loses objects
8. Leaves tasks incomplete
9. Shifts from one task to another in a rush without any clear goals

Inattention 

1. Short attention span
2. Can’t peacefully listen to others
3. Can’t pay attention to details
4. Forgetful
5. Poor in studies
6. Lack organizational skills
7. Easily distracted

Impulsiveness 

1. Disturbing tendencies
2. Responds without being called on
3. Give abrupt answers
4. Can’t wait for their turn in any event
5. Acts without thinking

The symptoms can also appear in children without ADHD. But, consistency and patterns are what help parents detect abnormalities. How the children behave at home and school plays a key role in diagnosis.

What Are the Causes of ADHD in Children?

The exact causes of ADHD are unknown. Research suggests that the most predominant factor is genetics. Children with ADHD have low dopamine levels in their brains. Because their brain metabolism rate is lower, they can’t control their attention span and body movement. They also lack analytical and reasoning skills. According to experts, the brains of ADHD children tend to mature later than those of children without the condition.

Which Children Are at Higher Risk of ADHD?

ADHD runs in families. According to research, many parents with ADHD children had similar symptoms when they were young. Girls are less likely to suffer from the hyperactive or combined ADHD type than boys. Other factors that may add to the risk of ADHD include,

1. Tobacco and alcohol consumption during pregnancy
2. Exposure to lead at a young age
3. Premature birth
4. Low birth weight
5. Brain injuries

How to Diagnosis ADHD in Children?

Health experts like pediatricians, mental health professionals, or child psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD in children. A simple test cannot identify the issue. ADHD diagnosis takes a prolonged observation and physical exams. The child’s medical history, nervous system, or symptoms can determine the test result. Some tests identify health issues, while others check thinking skills and specific skill sets. Parents should seek their child’s diagnosis when all or some of the following conditions appear –

1. The children must have at least six ADHD symptoms
2. The symptoms must last for more than 6 months
3. The symptoms appear everywhere, like home, school, relative’s houses
4. The symptoms are seen before 12 years of age

ADHD in Children – Treatment and Medication

ADHD demands long-term treatment with a combination of prescribed medication and behavioral therapy. Only medication is not so effective in treating the health issue. When children below 6 years are diagnosed with the symptoms, behavioral therapy is the most recommended treatment. With age, the doctor starts prescribing medicines. Treatment methods include, 

•  Medication

Both psychostimulant and non-stimulant medications effectively treat ADHD in children. With medicinal assistance, children can focus on their thoughts and avoid distractions. Some non-stimulant medications work best in combination with psychostimulants. Medicines like Modalert 100 MG, Modeler 200 MG, and Modarsmart 400 MG help decrease the symptoms of ADHD effectively. 

• Behavioral treatment

A therapist or counselor teaches children techniques to help them manage their behavior. The training also includes parents and teaches them skills to help their children manage their behavior. Some of the treatments include,

1. Routine making
2. Having clear communication
3. Encouraging good behavior and rewarding the kids on that
4. Time management
5. Planning and organizational skills

• Alternative Methods 

Alternative treatment methods are not proven to help with ADHD symptoms. But, according to some parents, yoga, meditation, and neurofeedback training have helped their children a lot in dealing with their ADHD symptoms. The children feel calmer and more relaxed when gentle exercise forms are used.

Final Take Away

Children with ADHD suffer issues with focus and attention in their lives. Parents must be cautious about when to see a doctor. As mentioned before, ADHD doesn’t have a complete cure. But, a healthy lifestyle, medicinal treatment, behavioral support, and alternative therapies can help them and their parents manage the symptoms with care. At Global Care Meds, you can find the best-quality ADHD medicines under your doctor’s prescription.