ADD Signs and Symptoms

You might have seen some kids who are not able to pay attention, who cannot concentrate or who are not able to follow the instructions even after explained clearly. Such kids may be the victims of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD). ADD is a neurological disorder, which typically affects children and may persist in adulthood. Children with ADD show inability to concentrate, hyperactivity and forgetfulness. Such children have poor performance in school, troubled relationships and low self-esteem.

Causes of ADD

There are a number of factors that can contribute to develop ADD in children. Certain modifications in brain anatomy and function are considered one of the main causes of ADD. The neurotransmitter dopamine (brain chemicals) is mainly responsible for such behavioral changes. Some other causes of ADHD are heredity, exposure to environmental toxins, drug abuse and maternal smoking.

Signs and Symptoms of ADD

ADD is also referred to as minimal brain dysfunction. ADD/ADHD affects about 8-10% of school-age children. Boys are more likely to develop this disorder than girls. Children and adults affected by ADD are not able to control their spontaneous responses involving movement, attentiveness and speech, leading to hyperactivity, inattentiveness and impulsive behavior. Signs and symptoms of ADD are categorized as inattentiveness symptoms and hyperactivity-impulsive behavior symptoms.

Inattentiveness symptoms: Some of the common inattentiveness symptoms are as follows:

• Children with ADD often fail to give close attention to details. Hence, they make several mistakes in schoolwork. They are not able to sustain attention in any kind of tasks or at play.
• They usually tend to lose things such as toys, tools, books, etc.
• These children are unable to follow the instructions properly and complete the assigned task.
• Children with ADD are not able to organize tasks or activities. They are distracted easily.
• They are frequently forgetful about daily activities.
• You may notice that children with ADD don’t listen to you carefully, even if spoken directly.
• They tend to avoid any task that involves mental efforts.

Hyperactivity-impulsive behavior symptoms: Excessive activity is one of the common symptoms associated with ADD. Certain symptoms related to hyperactivity are as follows:

• Children with ADD often move their hands or feet restlessly. They have a tendency to squirm or fidget frequently.
• They tend to leave their seats, when expected to remain seated.
• Excessive scaling or running at appropriate timings is another important sign of hyperactivity. Hyperactivity symptoms are seen in the form of constant restlessness in adolescents.
• Children with ADD are not able to play or do leisurely things peacefully. Incessant talking without a sense when to stop is common with these children.

Acting without thinking is the major sign of impulsiveness. Children with ADD have often a tendency to blurt out answers, before the questions are being finished. They have a tendency to interrupt with others' conversations or games. They are too impatient to wait for their turn during a game. They tend to interrupt during social events and demand too much attention.

Inattentiveness symptoms are observed in children of 8-9 years of age. These symptoms usually persist lifelong. Hyperactivity symptoms start by 5 years of age and become extremely severe between 7 and 8 years of age. Children with ADD have low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and aggressive or violent behavior.

The treatment of ADD emphasizes on controlling signs and symptoms of ADD and improving child’s mental abilities. The treatment constitutes a combination of medications and various therapies. ADHD medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate can help in increasing attention and concentration and reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity. Children with ADD benefit from different therapies such as behavioral therapy, psychotherapy and family therapy. A structured classroom management and parent education also play a significant role while dealing with ADD.