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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd) Introduction |
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Attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is
a behavioral condition that is
characterized by a poor attention
span and uncontrollable
hyperactivity. Once referenced
as either hyperkinetic
syndrome or attention deficit
disorder (ADD), experts now
refer to it as ADHD.
ADHD is divided into three different
categories:
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Attentive
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Hyperactive-compulsive
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Combined
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Genetics may be a
contributing factor to ADHD.
Frequent ear infections with
antibiotic use may contribute to
a greater likelihood of
developing ADHD. Many experts
believe that antibiotics diminish
beneficial intestinal bacteria and
allow toxins to enter the blood
stream, causing hyperactivity. Other
suggested ADHD causes include; food additives
(artificial flavors and colors),
food preservatives (BHA and BHT),
sugars (sucrose, fructose, corn
syrup, mannitol sorbitol, and other
sweeteners), and food allergies.
Certain nutrient and essential fatty
acid deficiencies are also thought
to contribute to one developing this
condition. ADHD is usually
diagnosed in preschool or early
elementary years, and may continue
into adolescence and adulthood.
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Attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder (adhd) Statistics
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According to the
National Institute of Mental Health,
2001 (1):
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4.1% of children
ages 9 to 17 in a 6-month period
have ADHD.
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Approximately three
times more boys than girls are
affected with ADHD.
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About 1/2 - 2/3 of
children with ADHD will continue
to have ADHD as adults.
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Attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (adhd) Symptoms |
ADHD symptoms usually
become apparent in children ages 3
to 7. Many ADHD symptoms are
associated with learning and
behavioral difficulties in school.
The major symptoms
associated with ADHD include:
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Motor Problems:
Hyperactivity, excessive
fidgeting, restlessness, excessive
running about or climbing.
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Attention
Problems: Short attention
span, difficulty concentrating on
school work and repetitive tasks,
impulsivity, disruptive behavior,
needing excessive supervision,
reading disorders.
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Mood Disorders:
Inappropriate social behavior,
sleeplessness, anxiety,
depression, low self-esteem.
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Learn More About
Attention deficit disorder |
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