Paying Attention to The Signs and Symptoms of ADHD - And How to Manage Them, Part 2

Part one of this series examined the definitions, several types, and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This second and final part looks at some causes and how parents can help their children overcome its effects.

ADHD's environmental causes are historically misunderstood yet easily avoided.

The history of ADHD has been plagued with misconceptions. Originally, it was believed caused by an injury or infection to the brain while the child was still an infant. Later, inattention or hyperactivity was linked to an over-ingestion of artificial sugar, sweeteners and food additives. More recent research has allayed parental guilt by showing that that neither is actually responsible for forming ADHD potential in the child's brain.

In fact, modern research indicates the same factors contributing to ADHD in children are many of the same practices expectant mothers already avoid for other important reasons. Among other potential health risks, doctors warn that mothers who smoke during pregnancy significantly increase the chances for ADHD in their children. Using alcohol and drugs similarly increases the potential.

Lead poisoning is another possible factor. While the metal has been banned from paint and other construction materials for decades, children living in older buildings and homes may still be at risk.

ADHD medications are effective, but come with controversy.

ADHD varies by child. Doctors and psychiatrists usually develop a treatment regimen that combines re-organizing a child's work and social environments in tandem with therapy and special medications. These medications are usually stimulants of the methylphenidate variety. Two of the most popular brands are sold under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta. Another popular brand, Adderall, is kind of amphetamine.

Doses are given anywhere from once to several times a day. Effectiveness varies according to the user, and physicians may try out different prescriptions and varying dosages before settling on the best choice for sustained, long-duration use. Side effects of methylphenidate and amphetamine are not generally problematic in the long term. Though some children report feeling "revved up," the effects are not considered harmful. Additional reported side effects include insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability, and an upset stomach.

Recent research has begun to call into question the benefits of long-term medication therapy. In particular, a study related to the National Institute of Mental Health's giant Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD recently reported that medications such as Ritalin and Concerta are no more effective after just three years than therapy administered without medication.

Therapy is a crucial step on the road to effective ADHD management.

It's also important to understand that prescription drugs are not as effective without corresponding therapy and lifestyle management. Parents are strongly encouraged to take an active role in helping their children combat ADHD symptoms. This assistance can include:

• Creating a daily routine: All children thrive on structure, and building a pattern to their daily lives helps children feel more relaxed.
  
• Avoiding unnecessary sensory stimuli: Limiting children's choices (in clothes to wear, what to eat for dinner, et cetera) and turning off television and video games helps their focus by removing "clutter" from their minds.
  
• Communicate and discipline clearly and consistently: Giving clear but short instructions, and administering discipline decisively lets children understand parameters without becoming confused or distracted.
  
• Offer rewards for positive behavior.

Families may also decide to enlist the aid of a therapist, who will work with the child on building concentration and social skills. Group therapy is also sometimes effective. Parents may also take special classes and seminars to help them reorient themselves to the needs of an ADHD child.

Behavioral Disorders Related to ADHD

Between twenty and thirty percent of ADHD children also have some form of learning disability. Many struggle with writing, arithmetic, and writing deficiencies, including dyslexia. Other common disabilities include:

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder: the child - usually a boy – is confrontational and argumentative with parents and authority figures. As many as one-half of all ADHD patients have some degree of ODD.
  
• Conduct Disorder: A more serious form of ODD, children with CD are aggressively hostile. They will deliberately break rules, threaten or attack classmates, engage in theft or vandalism, and carry weapons. Up to forty percent of ADHD children have CD.

Less common disabilities and problems include:

• Tourette Syndrome: People suffering from this disorder frequently repeat mannerisms such as sniffling or pronouncing words. They may also involuntarily perform nervous tics
• Bipolar Disorder
• Anxiety and Depression

Parents worried their child is displaying ADHD symptoms are encouraged to contact a psychiatrist or psychologist for help in making a formal evaluation. Many specialize in working with children. Pediatricians, neurologists and clinical social workers are also able to diagnose the disorder.

Michael Kabel is senior staff writer for http://www.cornerstorkbabygifts.com. Stop by for parenting and baby resources, unique baby gifts, baby gift baskets and baby shower favors.