LIVEWELL MINUTE: ADHD

ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affects an estimated 10 percent of school-age children – boys are three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls.

Dr. Kevin Took, MD, Blank Children’s Hospital says, “Children with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive and have trouble focusing.  At some point, all young children act this way but children with ADHD will display these symptoms over a long period of time and their ability to function socially, academically and at home will be impaired.”

The symptoms of ADHD include:

• Difficulty paying attention
• Listening problems Excessive
• Talking or blurting out answers before listening to the entire question
• Fidgeting or squirming
• Difficulty waiting in line or for their own turn

Dr. Took says, “ADHD is usually treated with a combination of medication and behavior therapy.  ADHD can’t be cured, but with the proper treatment, children can learn to successfully manage their symptoms.”