Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition affecting emotions, behavior, learning, and social outcomes. The condition tends to affect children and teenagers, although the effects often continue to adulthood. A good ADHD treatment program can alleviate the symptoms and enhance the quality of life. This article focuses on the types, causes, diagnoses, and treatment approaches to ADHD in kids. 

Types of ADHD 

There are three types of ADHD depending on symptoms.

Type 1: Inattentive 

Children with inattentive ADHD are easily distracted, and they rarely follow instructions or finish tasks. Also, the kids do not seem to pay attention to directions, and they make careless mistakes. Then, children tend to forget about daily activities and have problems organizing daily tasks. They do not seem to be listening and tend to daydream. 

Type 2: Hyperactive-impulsive 

Kids suffering from hyperactive-impulsive disorder can rarely sit still. Often, the children will be on the move running or climbing on things. Notably, the kids squirm, fidget, and feel restless. The children have trouble playing quietly, and they tend to talk excessively. Additionally, they tend to interrupt others, blurt out answers, and have difficulty waiting their turn. 

Type 3: Combined

Kids with combined ADHD will have in-attentive and hyperactive-impulsive disorder symptoms. Thus, the symptoms do not necessarily fall into an exclusive category. 

Causes of ADHD 

The specific causes for ADHD remain unknown. However, evidence points to the following risk factors:

• Brain chemicals that trigger an imbalance
• Brain injuries and disorders 
• Genetics with ADHD running in families 
• Pregnancy complications due to exposure to toxins, poor nutrition, infections, alcohol, and substance abuse   
• Premature birth 

Diagnosis and Treatment Approach

Diagnosis for ADHD is a complex process that requires a specialized assessment. The assessment team includes psychiatrists, pediatricians, learning disability specialists, therapists, and social workers. Usually, the assessment involves a physical examination to rule out other probable causes. The specialists conduct interviews targeting the child, parent, teachers, or caregivers. 

The goal of ADHD treatment is to manage symptoms and promote positive behavior rather than cure the condition. There are medications for reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, such as stimulants and non-stimulants. Then the doctor can recommend behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, or family therapy. The therapeutic options help people with ADHD to express feelings, learn, and replace inappropriate behaviors with new habits. Also, parents can enroll in behavior management training to learn new skills for managing kids' behavior, including setting boundaries. Classroom management interventions also help children learn new skills to cope with ADHD. 

Understanding ADHD is the first step towards managing the chronic condition. Even though there is no one-fit-all approach, the doctor creates an ADHD treatment plan that combines different techniques to meet patients' needs.

Contact a local medical professional to learn more about ADHD treatment for you or your children.