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Who develops ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) usually arises in early childhood, although some people may not be diagnosed until they are adults. Around 5% of children and 2.5% of adults have ADHD. ADHD tends to be more common in boys, who tend to be more hyperactive and whose symptoms tend to be more likely to improve as they get older. There are some medical conditions and circumstances in which ADHD symptoms may be more likely to occur. These can include: Very low birth weight; Childhood trauma (including abuse, neglect, domestic violence and parental illness); Brain injury (including damage that occurs during the pregnancy), and; Genetic development disorders such as, neurofibromatosis and fragile X syndrome.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition that can make it difficult for a person to concentrate and control their behavior. It usually arises in early childhood, but can affect some people their entire lives.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

One of the challenges of diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is that all children show some of the behaviors described as symptoms of ADHD some of the time, as part of their normal development. However, for children with ADHD, these …

What causes ADHD?

There is no single cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and there is still a great deal of debate about how aspects such as genetics, environmental factors (for example, exposure to lead) and early social experiences may contribute to the development …

How is ADHD diagnosed?

Assessment and diagnosis of child attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) must be performed by an experienced specialist clinician such as a pediatrician, child psychologist or child psychiatrist. Your general practitioner can make an initial assessment; …

How is ADHD treated?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cannot be cured, but the goal of treatment is to help: Reduce and manage disruptive behaviors so that they have less impact on the child's well-being and development - this may involve medications, counselling and …

Can ADHD be cured?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cannot be cured, but the main symptoms can be reduced and managed.

What can be done at home to help manage ADHD?

When a person has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the whole family can be affected. Learning about ADHD and techniques to reduce and better manage disruptive behavior can help to better deal with ADHD and reduce stress within …

Can ADHD be prevented?

Because the causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are not yet fully understood, it is not clear how the condition can be prevented. Assessing and treating the symptoms early on can help to minimize disruption to your child's development and …

What are the side effects of taking medications for ADHD?

Common side effects of psychostimulant medications include: Decreased appetite and reduced weight; Problems with sleeping; Headaches, and; Stomach pains. Other less common side effects that have be reported …

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 24 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 1302 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Oppositional defiant disorder

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