ADHD

What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a mental disorder that involves high activity levels, limited attention spans, and difficulty remaining still for long periods of time. ADHD is more prevalent in young children and teens, but adults can also receive a diagnosis for the disorder.

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

Boys tend to receive an ADHD diagnosis at higher rates than girls, and they typically get diagnosed in their early school years. ADHD symptoms can persist into adulthood and change over time; many adults don’t even realize that they have the disorder.

ADHD symptoms are often organized by type: Inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combination.

Symptoms of inattentive include:

• Difficulty finishing tasks, listening, or following directions
• Forgetting about daily activities
• Organizing daily tasks is challenging
• Losing things regularly
• Daydreaming and being easily distracted

Symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity include:

• Excessive talking
• Restless, always in motion
• Bouncing or fidgeting when sitting
• Not staying seated
• Inability to stay quiet
• Interrupting others, blurting out answers

For adults, symptoms of ADHD can differ. These may include:

• Lack of organization
• Low self-esteem
• Chronic forgetfulness and punctuality problems
• Problems at work or in relationships
• Mood swings, depression, or anger management issues
• Easily bored or frustrated
• Addiction or substance abuse

What causes ADHD?

Several myths surround the cause of ADHD. However, none of them are true. Sugar, lack of discipline, food allergies, or too much television don't cause ADHD. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but factors that may contribute include:

• Brain changes
• Chemical imbalances
• Genetics
• Exposure to lead and other toxins
• Disruptions to a baby’s brain development during pregnancy
• Brain injury or disorder

How is ADHD treated?

Several treatments are available to reduce ADHD symptoms, including natural solutions through chiropractic medicine.

Depending on your age and symptoms, your doctor at Absolute Healthcare Advanced Chiropractic will work with you to outline a nutritional strategy with dietary supplements. Physical adjustments of your spine may also restore balance in the brain. Dr. Laura Pate specializes in the care of young children, ensuring that ADHD treatment is available for patients of all ages.

In addition to nutritional counseling and chiropractic care, your doctor may recommend medication, behavioral therapy, and support groups.

Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about the natural treatments available to treat ADHD symptoms.