Causes Of ADHD

Despite progress in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, this disorder remains highly controversial. The diverse and conflicting opinions about ADHD have resulted in much confusion and speculation about the disorder. It has, however, become increasingly clear that ADHD is a neurological disorder that requires medical diagnosis and treatment.

Some Causes of ADHD

The exact cause of ADHD remains unknown and no single cause of this disease has been identified; but experts do know that there are changes in the brains of people with ADHD. It is not caused by home or school situations or by poor parenting.

Scientists have determined that there is a neurobiological basis for this disease. Studies of the brain show that children and adults who have ADHD are more likely to have an abnormal functioning of certain chemicals in the brain that regulate behavior. A study by the National Institute of Mental Health also found that the rate at which the brain uses glucose is lower in certain areas of the brain in people with ADHD.

There also maybe a genetic component involved in some cases of this disease. Research has shown an increased incidence of this disease in children who have a close relation with ADHD, conduct disorders, anti-social personality and substance abuse problems. Recent data in the Pediatric Annals indicates that if a parent has ADHD, the child has an approximate 25% chance of getting this disease.

Another potential factor that may cause ADHD is the presence of certain toxins such as lead in the environment. These toxins may interfere with the brain development in children and can possibly lead to ADHD. Children who live in old buildings in which lead is still used in the plumbing or in lead paint maybe at risk of ADHD.

High levels of anxiety in a mother during pregnancy may increase the chance of her baby developing ADHD later in life. Studies also show a possible correlation between the use of cigarettes and alcohol during pregnancy and the risk for a child getting ADHD.

Recent Studies

Although scientists are still not sure what causes this disorder, they have also found that certain areas of the brain i.e. the frontal lobes and basal ganglia are about 5% to 10% smaller in size and activity in children with ADHD. The frontal lobes allow us to solve problems, plan ahead, understand the behavior of others and restrain our impulses. The basal ganglia are responsible for motor coordination.

Research shows there is no evidence that ADHD is caused by:

• Eating too much sugar or food additives. It was initially suggested that attention disorders are caused by refined sugar or food additives or that symptoms of ADHD are exacerbated by them. However, studies now show that sugar has no significant effects on behavior or learning in children
• Allergies
• Immunizations
• Brain injury – This early theory has been discarded as only a small percentage of children with ADHD have been found to suffer from a traumatic brain injury.

There is also little evidence that ADHD can arise purely from social factors or child upbringing methods. The most substantiated causes appear to involve neurobiology and genetics.

Treatment for ADHD

When properly diagnosed, the symptoms of ADHD can be treated and managed. And while it is true that people with ADHD have special needs, the most important need is understanding and support from family, friends and loved ones. Treatment does not cure ADHD. However, it can control the symptoms and help children, teens and adults to cope better in school, work and social situations. They make it easier to stop and think about the consequence of a behavior.

It is believed that ADHD medications work by acting on certain neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate motor control, attention, organization, planning and decision making. These medications do not teach new behavior; but allow a person to focus better, increase attention spans and decrease distraction.

The various different treatments for ADHD include:

• psychotropic medications
• psychosocial interventions
• dietary management
• biofeedback
• meditation
• perception stimulation/training

Treatment in Children & Adolescents

Multidisciplinary treatment is the most effective form of treatment for children and adolescents. This treatment includes multiple elements which work best together and support each other. They include:

• Parent and child education about diagnosis and treatment
• Specific behavior management techniques
• Medication
• Working closely with health care providers and school personnel.

Treatments in Adults

Adults with ADHD also benefit from a multidisciplinary approach which includes:

• Counseling to learn skills
• Coping strategies to help in everyday life
• Medication
• Support and education

However, it is necessary to consult a qualified physician for proper treatment as this disorder can get out of hand if not treated properly.