Several different factors influence the development of ADD/ADHD:
Chemical Imbalance
Research has shown that there is a difference between the neurological function
of those with ADD/ADHD and those without it. The neurotransmitters dopamine
and acetylcholine have been linked to memory, awareness, concentration, reasoning,
judgment, and perception, and an imbalance of these important neurotransmitters
may influence an individual’s cognitive function.
Diet
While there is some question as to how much of a link there is between diet
and ADD/ADHD, studies have shown that removing processed and packaged foods
high in sugar and sweets can decrease the symptoms of ADD/ADHD. Not only can
the “crash” associated with sugary foods add to impulse control
problems, but it may also make it more difficult to concentrate. Creating a
diet based on whole fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates as well as
specific nutrients such as B-complex vitamins appears to increase the chances
of improvement in those with ADD/ADHD.
Heredity
Those with a family history of ADD/ADHD are more likely to develop the disorder
themselves, although it is unclear whether this is due to genetic inheritance
or environmental factors.
Developmental Difficulties
It is possible that a child does not have ADD/ADHD at all. Instead, they may
simply be behind developmentally, and eventually they will catch up. Everyone
develops at a different pace, and it is important to understand the difference
between an actual ADD/ADHD diagnosis and normal developmental issues.
Structural Differences
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Research has shown a possible difference between the brain structures of children
with ADD/ADHD and those without the disorder. Although more research needs
to be conducted, preliminary study has shown that some people with ADD/ADHD
have forebrains that are about 10% smaller. The forebrain is the area in the
brain that controls thoughts, behavior, and emotion, and this difference in
size could account for the impulsivity and behavioral problems experienced
by children and adolescents with ADD/ADHD.
Brain Damage
Several pre-natal factors can cause damage to the brain of the developing
fetus. These include maternal drug abuse, toxemia, radiation exposure, and
infectious disease. After a child is born, other conditions can precipitate
brain damage that may lead to ADD/ADHD such as extreme and prolonged fever,
meningitis, head injury, and lead poisoning.
It is most likely that a combination of these factors has an influence on
the development of ADD/ADHD and its symptoms.
Author: Nan Little
Website: http://www.insightjournal.com/
Do you always feel like you’re “on the go?” Do you often become easily
distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds? Does your child have
difficulty sitting still, often fidgeting or squirming? These are all
signs of ADHD. Find out more about what ADHD is here.
What are the steps to diagnosing ADD in adults? Find out what your
healthcare professional will need to learn in order to determine
whether you have occasional problems losing focus or an attention
deficit disorder.
What are the steps to diagnosing ADHD in children and young adults?
Find out what your healthcare professional will need to learn in order
to determine whether your child or teen has occasional problems
maintaining focus or an
attention deficit disorder.
What type of child develops ADHD? There are several factors that can
put your child at risk for ADHD. Learn more about what researchers have
discovered, including the 'gender connection', the 'biological
connection', environment and heredity.
Individuals who have been diagnosed with ADHD have many treatment
options available to them. Behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, social
skills training, as well as parent education and training are just some
of the many treatments for ADHD.
Have your say! Comment in our forums.
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