What is ADHD?
ADHD is a behavioral problem that’s prevalent in children and to a lesser extent in adults — and an estimated 8.4% of children have some degree of ADHD. The condition interferes with your child’s ability to concentrate and causes hyperactive and disruptive behaviors.
These issues can get in the way of your child’s success at school, prevent them from forming friendships, and disrupt your life at home, all of which contribute to low self-esteem and underachievement.
What are the signs of ADHD?
In children, ADHD can present as primarily hyperactive, primarily inattentive, or a combination of both. There are different signs of hyperactivity and inattentiveness. Some of the common symptoms of hyperactivity include:
- Constant movement and fidgeting
- Playing or running at inappropriate times
- Trouble playing quietly
- Talking too much and interrupting
- Blurting out answers
- Trouble taking turns
The signs of ADHD-related inattention include:
- Doesn’t pay attention in school
- Makes careless mistakes
- Doesn’t seem to listen
- Fails to follow instructions
- Often doesn’t finish schoolwork
- Poor organization
- Avoids tasks that require concentration
- Easily distracted
- Frequently loses items like homework, pencils, or toys
Depending on your child’s condition, they may have some or all of these symptoms to varying degrees.
When should I talk to a pediatrician about my child’s behavior?
Sometimes it’s hard to tell if your child is acting like a normal kid, or if their behavior is a sign of something else. A good rule of thumb is whether their behavior is interfering with their life.
This could show up as academic or social problems at school, or their behavior disrupts their home life and interferes with the well-being of other family members. If you’re not sure about your child’s behavior, make an appointment at Katy Pediatric Associates for an evaluation.
How is ADHD treated?
The doctors at Katy Pediatric Associates provide customized treatment plans to help your child. In many cases, they combine lifestyle modifications with medication and therapy.
For example, your doctor might recommend dietary changes for your child and suggest getting them involved in a sport that will allow them to run, jump, or otherwise burn off some of their extra energy.
They might also recommend therapy to help your child build skills that will help them improve their concentration and self-regulate their behavior. If necessary, your doctor can prescribe medication.
If you’re concerned about your child’s behavior, call Katy Pediatric Associates or request an appointment online today.
