Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood, estimated to affect between 3% and 5% of school-aged children. The core symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Although many people occasionally have difficulty sitting still, paying attention, or controlling impulsive behavior, these behaviors are so persistent in people with ADHD that they interfere with daily life. Generally, these symptoms appear before the age of 7 years and cause significant functional problems at home, in school, and in various social settings. One- to two-thirds of all children with ADHD (somewhere between 1% and 6% of the general population) continue to exhibit ADHD symptoms into adult life. Diagnosis is difficult (usually requiring more than one visit) but essential, as early treatment can substantially alter the course of a child's educational and social development.

Signs and Symptoms

A person is considered to have ADHD if he or she demonstrates symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity for at least 6 months in at least two settings (such as at home and in school). The signs and symptoms listed below are typically seen in children with ADHD and usually appear before age seven. (In order to diagnose ADHD in adults, healthcare providers must determine how the adult patient behaved as a child.)

Symptoms of Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

• Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat 
• Leaves seat in situations where remaining seated is expected 
• Runs or climbs excessively in inappropriate situations (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness) 
• Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly 
• Acts as if "driven by a motor" 
• Talks excessively 
• Blurts out answers before questions are completed 
• Has difficulty awaiting turn 
• Interrupts or intrudes on others 

Symptoms of Inattention

• Fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes 
• Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities 
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly 
• Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace 
• Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities 
• Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort 
• Loses things necessary for tasks or activities 
• Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli 
• Is forgetful in daily activities 

Integrative Medicine Treatment Options

We combine the best of conventional medicine with the best of complementary and alternative therapies to give you optimal results.

Here are some options we use at the Alliance Institute for Integrative Medicine LOCATED IN Cincinnati, Ohio

• Cranio-sacral Therapy
• Medication, Herbal Therapies and Supplements
• Energy Healing
• Mind/Body Relaxation Techniques