This condition is not the result of eating too much
sugar or activities such as watching TV
New Delhi, 09
September 2017: Some few and disparate studies conducted indicate
that about 1.6% to 12.2% of children in India have ADHD or Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder. ADHD can run in families with environmental stress and
academic pressure being two factors that can aggravate the condition. As per
the IMA, ADHD occurs mostly in young children, during their preschool or
kindergarten years. In some children, the condition can become worse when they
enter teenage. It can also occur in adults.
ADHD is a
brain disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or
hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. The
brain of a person with ADHD is generally 5% smaller than someone without ADHD,
particularly regions involved in attention, impulse control, and stimulus
integration. The other factors that play a role include imbalanced levels of
the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine.
Speaking
about this, Padma Shri Awardee Dr K K Aggarwal, National President Indian
Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI)
and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement,
said, "Children with ADHD are extremely active and may also exhibit
certain other behavioral problems. This makes it difficult to care for them and
even manage and teach them. They may even find it tough to fit in the school
regime because they are overactive and impulsive. Provided this is addressed at
the early stage, it can pose problems later in life. While there is no cure for
ADHD, treatments revolve around reducing symptoms and improving functioning in
such children. Some treatment options include medication, psychotherapy,
education or training, or a combination of these.”
The symptoms
of ADHD are often grouped into three categories: inattention, hyperactivity,
and impulsivity. Sugar doesn’t cause ADHD and neither do watching too much TV,
a poor home life, poor schools, or food allergies.
Adding
further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Education, support and creativity can go a
long way in managing this condition in children. Although it is a challenge to
stay organized with children having ADHD, prioritizing and managing time can
help. Parents must remember that ADHD is not an indicator of your child’s
intelligence or capability. Find out their strengths and focus on them for
better results.”
Here are some
tips to manage children with ADHD.
- Set routines. Set clear boundaries so that everyone knows what behavior is
expected.
- Award and reward Reinforce positive behavior with specific praise or
rewards. You can try using a points or star system to reward good
behavior.
- Look out for warning signs If the child looks like he/she is about to
lose self-control, it is a good idea to intervene. Distract the child if
possible.
- Invite friends over This will help them mingle but ensure that the child
does not lose self-control.
- Improve sleep Make your child get quality sleep. Ensure that they do not indulge in
strenuous or exciting activities close to bedtime.
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