Whether you suspect that your child has ADHD or he or she has already been diagnosed, you probably have a few questions. Dr. Robert Crowe at The Pediatric Center in Leesville, and Many, LA, can provide answers and recommends treatments and strategies that will make life much less stressful for your child.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is the abbreviation for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, a brain disorder that affects behavior and attention. The disorder usually appears in childhood.
What causes ADHD?
Although doctors aren't sure why some children get ADHD and others don't, genetics could be a factor, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a close family relative has ADHD, your child might be more likely to have it too.
Parenting styles, poverty, family issues, watching too much TV, or eating sugary treats don't seem to play a role in ADHD, based on several research studies. The disorder is diagnosed more often in boys than girls, but that could be because girls don't always display classic symptoms.
Does ADHD always cause hyperactivity?
Most people associate ADHD with an inability to sit still. That's certainly a common symptom, but some children with ADHD don't have an overwhelming desire to move.
Depending on his or her symptoms, your child may be diagnosed with one of these ADHD types:
- Hyperactivity-Impulsivity: Children with this type of ADHD are constantly on the go. They may find constantly fidget, roam the classroom at school, or find it impossible to remain quiet when the teacher is talking. Children diagnosed with the hyperactivity-impulsivity form may act impulsively or recklessly and may not like waiting in line or taking turns.
- Inattentive: Problems with organization and focus are common in children who have the inattentive form of ADHD. They may daydream, get bored easily, lose belongings and have trouble following directions.
- Combined: If your child has the combined form, he or she will have symptoms of both types.
What treatments are offered for ADHD?
Your Leesville and Many, LA, pediatrician may recommend one or more of these ADHD strategies and treatment options:
- Behavioral therapy
- Family therapy
- Social skills groups
- Educational support
- Parental support and education
- Medication
Do you need some answers about ADHD? Call the Leesville, and Many, LA, offices of Dr. Robert Crowe at The Pediatric Center to schedule an appointment for your son or daughter. In Leesville, LA, at (337) 239-2207, or in Many, LA, by calling (318) 431-5100.