Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder characterized by inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. ADHD is more common in males than females.

Symptoms

• Inattention - by having difficulties sustaining focus, being disorganized and lacking persistence. Important is that these problems are not due to a lack of comprehension!
• Hyperactivity - by constantly moving around and being extreme restless.
• Impulsivity - by urgent decision taking without considering the consequences, being socially intrusive and excessively interrupting others.

Cause

The cause of ADHD is unknown.

Diagnosis

At KindCare Medical Center we are starting the diagnostic clarification by taking an extensive medical history addressing your symptoms, the trigger factors, the duration and the frequency, work environment, social habits, toxic exposure, risk of infectious diseases and family history of neurological disease. Check of vital signs such as blood pressure and pulse, followed by a proper physical examination with focus on mental health are mandatory. The symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity must be chronic or long-lasting, impair the person’s functioning, and cause the person to fall behind normal development for his or her age. Most children with ADHD receive a diagnosis during the elementary school years prior to age 12 and can continue through adulthood. In addition, laboratory tests and imaging of brain as MRI are offered for ruling out underlying conditions.

Treatment

Treatment options at KindCare Medical Center are Cognitive behavioural therapy, medications as stimulants as Methylphenidate (Ritalin) which increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which play essential roles in thinking and attention, but can be associated with side effects as decreased appetite, sleep problems, tics (sudden, repetitive movements or sounds), personality changes, increased anxiety and irritability, stomach-aches and headaches and a new, innovative, not chemical therapy alternative by Neurofeedback, or EEG-biofeedback, which significantly reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve the ability to focus, work and learn. Additional offers are stress management techniques and physiotherapy to improve physical coordination.

Tips to Help Kids and Adults with ADHD Stay Organized

For Kids:

• Keeping a routine and a schedule - same routine every day, from wake-up time to bedtime. Include times for homework, outdoor play, and indoor activities. Keep the schedule on a bulletin board.
• Have a place for everything, and keep everything as clothing, toys etc… in its place.
• Use notebook organizers.
• Being clear and consistent. Children with ADHD need consistent rules they can understand and follow.
• Giving praise when rules are followed.

For Adults:

• Consult a professional counselor for learning how to organize.
• Keep routines.
• Making lists for different tasks and activities.
• Using a calendar for scheduling events.
• Using reminder notes.
• Assigning a special place for keys, bills, and paperwork.
• Breaking down large tasks into more manageable, smaller steps so that completing each part of the task provides a sense of accomplishment.