Inattentive and hyperactive children do not necessarily have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

ADHD, characterized by short attention span, distraction, impulsiveness, aggressiveness and constant attention-getting behavior, is a biological disorder present at birth. Symptoms, often recognized by day-care or first-grade teachers, must be present by age 7 for classification as ADHD.

Diagnosis involves obtaining information about the child's habits and lifestyle from teachers, parents and other adults. Specific tests to determine attention span, impulsivity and how a child approaches academic tasks are given.

Physicians also rule out conditions that can have similar symptoms such as learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder or petit mal seizures.

Once diagnosed, there are several medication choices.

"Stimulants, such as Ritalin, dexadrine, Cylert and Adderall, are most often prescribed for attention span and concentration problems," says Dr. Diane Treadwell- Deering, a child psychiatrist at Baylor College of Medicine and a specialist at Texas Children's Hospital's Learning Support Center. "Medication choices often depend on the child's main symptoms."

Other medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants and clonidine, can be given in combination with stimulants or when stimulants are not effective. Wellbutrin may be prescribed when a child has ADHD and depression.

- From Baylor College of Medicine

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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