What is ADHD and how is it treated?

What you need to know about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

There is a lot of information out there about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly called ADHD. It’s hard to know what to believe, but your caring developmental pediatrician, Dr. Alison Smoller at Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey of Monmouth County, wants you to know fact from fiction.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental problems in children, and it can persist when your child becomes an adult. The CDC recommends paying attention to these signs and symptoms of ADHD:

• Frequent daydreaming
• Losing or forgetting things
• Talking excessively
• Fidgeting and squirming
• Making mistakes due to carelessness
• Taking unnecessary risks
• Difficulty getting along with other children

Research has shown that ADHD is not caused by eating a lot of sugar, watching too much TV, or other social factors, although these habits can make symptoms worse. Genetics plays a large part in causing ADHD. Other possible causes include low birth weight, premature delivery, smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy, environmental issues like lead exposure, and brain injury.

Your Monmouth County developmental pediatrician will diagnose your child using a series of tests and a full medical exam. You, your child’s teacher, and your child may be asked questions about behavior. It is helpful for your developmental pediatrician to have a complete history about your child in order to confirm ADHD.

Treatment for ADHD typically includes:

• Behavioral therapy with your child
• Behavioral management training for you, the parent
• Stimulants and other medications

ADHD can be frustrating for you and your child. It can lead to significant problems in your child’s ability to learn from and pay attention to their teacher. If you suspect your child has ADHD, don’t wait until your child has more difficulty. Seek help from Dr. Alison Smoller and call Developmental Pediatrics of Central Jersey, in Monmouth County. Get some help for your child and yourself. Call today!