Listol - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Management

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or attention deficit disorder (ADD) with exhibited hyperactivity, is the name given to a group of chronic disorders. 

These disorders are coupled with specific mechanisms within the central nervous system (CNS) and include; inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. 

ADHD is often labeled a 'neurobehavioral' disorder and its symptoms can last a lifetime.

There have been many names given to this condition, other than ADHD, which can make the ability to define the criteria needed to accurately diagnose this condition, or to differentiate between ADD and ADHD, a difficult undertaking.  However, there are three categories of ADHD defined by the American Psychiatric Association:

• ADHD inattentive
• ADHD hyperactive-impulse, and
• A combination of the two (ADHD inattentive combined with ADHD hyperactive-impulse)

To further simplify matters, ADD can be described as the inattentive form of attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity.  The diagnosis of ADHD is usually reserved for the hyperactive-impulsive and combined forms of the condition.

Scientists believe that certain structural changes in the brain are the primary cause of ADHD. 

Research has also uncovered other factors not related to brain chemistry that may play a significant role, as well.  These include, but are not limited to; altered brain function, heredity, diet, maternal smoking, exposure to toxins (including childhood), and drug use.

• Altered brain function - Certain chemical imbalances and disruptions in the neural pathways responsible for messaging relating to attention, movement, and motivation, are considered contributing factors to ADHD.
   
• Heredity - One in four with ADHD will also have another family member who suffers from the condition.
   
• Diet - Many individuals with ADD and ADHD react to the preservatives, dyes, and salicylates found in common foods.  Food additives and a low protein diet are also thought to play a significant role in hyperactivity.

ADHD can be characterized by one (or in some combination) of the following symptoms:

• Tendency to disturb others (especially in children)
• Tendency to become frustrated easily
• Problems adapting to new activities/emotions
• Self-limiting and self-destructive behavior
• Difficulty accomplishing tasks (e.g. homework, work, etc.)
• Temper tantrums or extreme mood swings
• Impatience/difficulty waiting
• Reduced tolerance for normal stressors (environmental or emotional)
• Easily frustrated
• Over activity and the inability to sit still for any length of time
• Impulsiveness and daring behavior
• Awkwardness when performing physical activities
• Clumsiness
• Extremely talkative
• Failure in work or school, despite average or above-average intelligence

To date, it seems the most effective treatment protocols employ a multi-treatment approach (i.e. combination therapies). 

However, ADHD treatment continues to be a topic of intense debate.  Many prescription medications produce unwanted and counterproductive side effects.  Additionally, behavioral modifications do not work for all sufferers.  Nonetheless, the most common treatment methods remain:

• Behavioral Therapy: This may include counseling as well, and is performed under the guidance of a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or other health care professional.  Counseling therapies include behavior therapy, family therapy, psychotherapy, parenting skills training, and social skills training.
   
• Medications: Psychostimulants and antidepressants are the primary drugs used to treat ADHD.  Although these drugs may provide some relief of the core symptoms (e.g. inattention and hyperactivity) they fail to correct individual coping mechanisms or conflict at home and in the classroom. 
  
  What's more, these medications are notorious for producing unwanted side effects in both children and adults. Decreased appetite, corresponding weight loss, nervousness, and problems sleeping are often reported are normal reactions.
   
• Experimental Therapies: Biofeedback and Brainwave biofeedback techniques are two therapies that have evolved as potential ADHD treatments. 
  
  In each form of biofeedback training, patients learn to control their stress and hyperactivity levels by manipulating brain wave patterns and body responses.  However, these approaches are considered unproven and their effectiveness has not been clearly established.