Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by poor attention span and excessive activity and/or impulsiveness that interferes with normal functioning and development. ADHD has been associated with learning difficulties and/or lack of appropriate social skills. Onset usually occurs before age 4, while the average ages for diagnosis is ages 8-10.

Key Points

• ADHD has no known specific cause, but numerous suspected risk factors.

• Differentiation between ADHD and other conditions has been challenging for physicians, leading to overdiagnosis.

• Although considered a disorder in children and always starts in childhood, about 50% of ADHD cases persist in adulthood.

• Diagnosed 10 times more often in boys than girls.

• Physicians use questionnaires completed by parents and teachers as well as observations to make a diagnosis.

Signs/Symptoms of ADHD 

• Inattention, poor concentration

• Impulsivity, impatience

• Hyperactivity

• Mood swings

Possible Causes and Exacerbating Factors

• Genetic predisposition, biochemical, and behavioral factors

• Pregnancy risk factors - Low birth weight, exposure to toxins (lead, alcohol, cocaine, tobacco), head trauma, brain infection

• Food additives and sugar

• Food allergies

• Heavy metal toxicity

• Malnourishment, food allergies

Naturopathic Treatment Approaches

• Identify and remove exacerbating factors

• Identify and treat co-morbid health conditions

• Behaviour management

• Lifestyle modifications

• Exercise to stabilize mood & attention

• Eliminate food allergens & toxins

• Dietary modifications to stabilize mood & attention

• Ensure necessary nutrients for proper brain development

• Botanical & nutraceutical supplements to stabilize neurotransmitters & hormones

• Higher force intervention and/or specialist referral, if needed

For further information, we suggest you to make an appointment with our naturopathic doctor.

Disclaimer

The information within the NICHE Natural Health web site is intended to help both practitioners and patients make better healthcare decisions and enable patients to take greater responsibility for their own health. NICHE Natural Health is not responsible for the results of your decisions resulting from the use of the information, including, but not limited to, your choosing to seek or not to seek professional medical care, or from choosing or not choosing specific treatment based on the information.

NICHE Natural Health encourages persons who wish to embark on a health or treatment program, or take nutritional or herbal medicines, to contact and be supervised by a qualified healthcare practitioner.