ADHD
Information from: Medical Management of Children with Attention Deficit Disorders Commonly Asked Questions by C.H.A.D.D. & AACAP. Additional resources below.
Attention Deficit With Hyperactivity Disorder affects approximately 3 to 5 percent of the population and are manageable. Boys with ADHD tend to outnumber girls 3 to 1, although ADHD in girls seems to be under-identified.
Characteristics:
Inattentiveness, impulsivity, and oftentimes, hyperactivity.
Treatment:
Medications can drastically improve attention span and reduce hyperactive and impulsive behavior. There is a 70-80% positive response to medication. The most common medications prescribed are Ritalin/Ritalin SR (methylphenidate), Dexedrine (dextriamphetamine), and Cylert (pemoline).
Common side effects of these medications include loss of appetite, weight loss, insomnia, irritability, heightened sensitivity to criticism or rejection, sadness and an increased tendency to cry.
Behavior modification is also highly beneficial with most children suffering from ADHD. Establishing structure and clear boundaries for children with ADHD teaches them appropriate behaviors.
Resources:
National ADD Hotline: (800)223-4050 (Leave a voice mail to request an information packet.)
National ADD Association: www.add.org
CHADD (Children & Adults with ADD) www.chadd.org