Treatment of ADHD in Baton Rouge

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common mental disorder that affects both children and adults. This neurobiological condition is one of the most studied disorders in childhood. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder influences one’s ability to focus, increases impulsivity, and causes hyperactivity in many. ADHD is typically identified in school-aged children when there are behavioral and classwork issues. While shorter attention spans and higher activity levels are typical for children, the line of demarcation for ADHD occurs when these actions create stress and other issues at home, school, or in relationships.

What Causes ADHD?

Many variables can cause ADHD. Data has shown that the following factors can influence the occurrence of ADHD.

• Heredity: It is common to see a pattern of ADHD within families. There is a 1 in 4 chance that a child with ADHD has a parent with the condition. Furthermore, this same child will likely have a sibling with ADHD.
• Brain Function: The function of the brain can also play a role in the development of ADHD. Lower levels of activity in the sections of the brain that control activity levels and attention can be correlated to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
• Prenatal Exposures: There is an increased risk of developing ADHD when a fetus is exposed to substances like alcohol and nicotine in the womb.
• Premature Birth: Children that are born prematurely have a higher chance of having ADHD.

Who Gets ADHD? 

According to the CDC, 9.4% of children, and 4.4% of adults have ADHD in the United States. This condition is more prevalent among boys than girls. 85% of children with ADHD are at risk for maintaining the disorder into adulthood. Adult ADHD is believed to be underdiagnosed. The rate of diagnoses among adults is growing four times than in children.  

Types of ADHD

There are three types of ADHD:

• ADHD, combined presentation is the most common. It is characterized by hyperactive and impulsive behaviors in addition to distractibility and inattention.
• ADHD, predominantly inattentive presentation is identified by being inattentive, without impulsive or hyperactive tendencies.
• ADHD, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation is the least common type of this condition. This type has impulsive and hyperactive behaviors, but not inattention characteristics. 

Symptoms of ADHD

There are a variety of signs used to identify the different types of ADHD.

ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Presentation Symptoms

• Fidgets with or taps hands or feet, squirms in seat
• Runs and climbs when and where inappropriate
• Cannot play or do leisure activities quietly
• Unable to remain in seat, in the classroom or at work
• Blurts out answers
• Talks excessively
• Interrupts or intrudes during conversations
• Always busy
• Difficulty taking turns/waiting

ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation Symptoms

• Problems maintaining focus on tasks and activities
• Makes careless mistakes/lack of attention to detail
• Easily distracted
• Avoids tasks that require a sustained mental effort
• Constantly losing items, like papers, keys, wallet, etc.
• Does not listen when spoken to
• Difficulty staying organized
• Doesn’t follow through on completing tasks and assignments

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

In order to diagnose ADHD, a person has to have a certain number of the symptoms listed above. This diagnosis involves the collection of information and insight from various parties like parents and teachers. For a hyperactive/impulsive presentation diagnosis, you must have at least six of the listed symptoms that occur frequently. The same number is needed for a predominantly inattentive presentation diagnosis. For both types, if you are over the age of 17, only five symptoms need to be frequently recognized.

How is ADHD Treated?

Because no two people with ADHD are exactly alike, there are a variety of treatments to help restore the ability to concentrate and improve performance. Working with your doctor will help to determine the best treatment plan for you or your child. Medication is typically prescribed. There are two categories of medication that can mitigate the effects of ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants.

Stimulants are most commonly prescribed for ADHD. This type of medication helps the brain control impulses, attention, and behavior. Commonly prescribed types include: Adderall, Focalin, and Vyvanse.

Non-stimulants offer a different treatment option to help with impulse control and concentration. These can be a better alternative for some people but are often used in conjunction with stimulants. Commonly prescribed non-stimulants include: Intuniv, Strattera, and Kaplay.