ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders in children. A survey conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) found out that almost 7% to 8% of all children and youth in the US suffer from ADHD.
However, it’s worth noting that children may also face behavioral issues due to anxiety, depression, underlying medical conditions, and life-changing events such as their parent’s divorce or a death in the family. Hence, you’ll need professional help diagnosing ADHD.
If you see any signs of ADHD in your child, schedule a visit with your pediatrician to get an evaluation done.
Common symptoms of ADHD
Before looking at the following list, keep in mind that these symptoms may vary from child to child. Young ones with ADHD usually show signs of hyperactivity, inattention and/or impulsivity in one way or another.
You child may be dealing with ADHD is they:
- Often squirm or fidget
- Are in constant motion
- Have trouble paying attention
- Can’t play quietly
- Don’t seem to listen to anyone
- Are easily distracted
- Can’t finish tasks
- Often talk excessively
Diagnosing for ADHD
While there isn’t a definitive test for ADHD that may determine the occurrence of the disorder, a qualified and professional healthcare provider will most likely ask for a lot of information and follow a thorough approach to be sure. As a rule of thumb, doctors generally diagnose ADHD in children when they show six or more signs of hyperactivity or inattention for six months or more in at least two different settings.
What to expect in an ADHD evaluation
Some common tests that pediatricians carry out to see if your child has ADHD may include a physical examination and noninvasive brain scan. These will follow the thorough medical history the healthcare provider may ask you to provide.
Your child’s pediatrician will then use the standard guidelines developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics to make a diagnosis. According to the APA, ADHD may be diagnosed in children between the ages of 4 and 18. It’s quite challenging to diagnose ADHD in children below the age of 5 due to rapid developmental changes that occur during their preschool years.
Either way you can schedule a visit with the qualified and reputable Pediatrician Medical center at A Thru Z Pediatrics to care for your child. Our highly trained pediatricians provide primary care for newborn babies and children at fantastic rates.
Find out more about the best Pediatrician San Antonio here.