ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Can Be Diagnosed In Kids From Age 4, Says American Academy Of Pediatrics

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Can Be Diagnosed In Kids From Age 4, Says American Academy Of Pediatrics

Article Date: 16 Oct 2011 - 17:00 PDT

New treatment guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatrics say that Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be diagnosed in kids as young as four years of age, down from six years in its previous guidelines. The new guidelines were released today both in the journal Pediatrics and at the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) annual meeting in Boston, also today.

ADHD is a problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination. For these problems to be diagnosed as ADHD, they must be out of the normal range for a child's age and development.

CAUSES, INCIDENCE, AND RISK FACTORS

ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood. It affects about 3 - 5% of school aged children. ADHD is diagnosed much more often in boys than in girls.
Depression, lack of sleep, learning disabilities, tic disorders, and behavior problems may be confused with, or appear with, ADHD.
Most children with ADHD also have at least one other developmental or behavioral problem. They may also have a psychiatric problem.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of ADHD fall into three groups:

·         Lack of attention (inattentiveness)

·         Hyperactivity

·         Impulsive behavior (impulsivity)

Some children with ADHD primarily have the inattentive type. Others may have a combination of types.
Inattentive symptoms

1. Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork

2. Has difficulty keeping attention during tasks or play

3. Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

4. Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace

5. Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

6. Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork)

7. Often loses toys, assignments, pencils, books, or tools needed for tasks or activities

8. Is easily distracted

9. Is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity symptoms:

1. Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat

2. Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected

3. Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations

4. Has difficulty playing quietly

5. Is often "on the go," acts as if "driven by a motor," talks excessively

Impulsivity symptoms:

1. Blurts out answers before questions have been completed

2. Has difficulty awaiting turn

3.    Interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations or games)

Currently available treatments focus on reducing the symptoms of ADHD and improving functioning.

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