ADHD

ADHD is one of the most commonly diagnosed developmental disorders in children. Its signs and symptoms are becoming more widely recognized, which has led to more cases being diagnosed. Treatment options are constantly evolving as well due to the increase in children and adults who struggle with the symptoms.

If you think your child may have ADHD, call Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group today at (856) 547-7300 to schedule an evaluation at our Haddon Heights office or call (856) 294-5600 for our Mullica Hill office.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder, meaning that it originates in the brain and affects behavior. It stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, which represents the two most prominent symptoms: lack of focus and hyperactive behavior. Children with ADHD can have problems with either attention, behavior, or both.

What are the Symptoms of ADHD?

There is a wide range of symptoms that can indicate that a child may have ADHD, such as:
Impulsiveness

Difficulty staying on task
Difficulty controlling their body
Daydreaming
Irritability when required to be still
Impatient
Fidgeting
Easily frustrated

Diagnosing ADHD

If your child exhibits one or more of these symptoms on a daily basis, you may have reason to think that they have ADHD. But in order to make an official diagnosis, the symptoms have to be persistent and present in more than one setting, such as at home and at school. The parents and the child’s teacher will each fill out a questionnaire (such as the Vanderbilt Assessment or Conners Scale). The results of both will be scored and compared and if many of the same symptoms are present, it is likely that the child has ADHD.

Treating ADHD

Just because a child is diagnosed with ADHD doesn’t mean that any treatment is necessary. Some symptoms are not severe and do not negatively impact the child’s daily life and learning. For some children the symptoms lessen as the child grows and matures.

But for children whose symptoms are severe, there are a variety of options for treatment that can include a combination of accommodations in school, behavioral therapy, and medication. There is no cure for ADHD, but with the necessary interventions the symptoms can be managed to allow the child to be happy and successful.

While medication is not necessary for all children with ADHD, it is an important tool in managing ADHD. While all medicines have side effects, many parents have misconceptions about these medicines and are nervous about using them. If medication is an option for your child, one of our pediatricians or pediatric nurse practitioners will review all possible options and help you better understand what these medications do. We’ll also discuss side effects and common myths about ADHD medicines.

Think your Child May Have ADHD?

If you have reason to believe that your child may have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), contact Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group. We provide comprehensive pediatric services to patients in Haddon Heights, Mullica Hill, Cherry Hill, Voorhees, West Deptford, Washington Township, Moorestown, NJ, and the surrounding area.

ADHD can make life difficult for both parents and children. But with the proper intervention and the ideal combination of treatments, a child with ADHD can find symptom relief and grow up happy and healthy. Call (856) 547-7300 today to make an appointment at our Haddon Heights office or (856) 294-5600 for our Mullica Hill office. You can also schedule an appointment online.