Alabama Clinics - What is ADHD?

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Posted by: Al Clinics
Date: Oct 04 2018 9:24 AM

Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is the most commonly mental disorder diagnosed in children. It is characterized by the inability to sustain attention, control activity level, and/or regulate impulse actions. Even though it is diagnosed in childhood, it can continue into adulthood which can cause behaviors that interfere with school, work and home life.

Children with ADHD may display impulsive behaviors and/or trouble staying on task. Symptoms showed by children with ADHD include but are not limited to:

1. Inattention: child is easily distracted, has trouble following directions, lacks persistence, forgets about daily activities, and is disorganized.


2. Hyperactivity: child is constantly moving, even in situations in which it is not appropriate. Often displays excessive fidgeting, tapping, or talking.


3. Impulsivity: child has trouble waiting for his/her turn when participating in activities with others, interrupts and blurts out answers.

Symptoms of ADHD may change as the person gets older. Adults with ADHD may have trouble with time management skills, staying organized, and/or struggle achieving a goal. This can make it hard for them to hold down a job or have successful relationships. Can also cause anxiety, mood swings, and/or depression.

Although the exact cause of ADHD isn’t known, researchers say there are several factors that increase the likelihood of the disorder. Genetic factors play a strong role, so it is important to determine if there is a family history of ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health disorders. Other factors include poor nutrition, smoking, drinking, and/or brain injuries.

There is no cure for ADHD, but the condition can be treated with a combination of medication and therapy. There are two types of drugs that are approved to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants.

1. Stimulants: these are the most commonly used medications to treat ADHD. Stimulants work by increasing brain chemicals that are vital for transmitting messages between brain neurons.


2. Non-stimulants: these are used when a stimulant drug is not well tolerated or preferred. Non-stimulants help increase a brain chemical called norepinephrine, which can help improve focus and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity.

If you or a loved one is showing symptoms of ADHD, make an appointment with us to see a psychiatrist. Walk ins are also welcome and we are open 7 days a week!

Alabama Clinics

2812 Hartford Hwy, Suite #1

Dothan, AL 36305

(334) 712-1170

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