Children with ADHD display symptoms of inattentiveness sometimes accompanied by hyperactivity, sometimes not. Often the children are impulsive, but that's not a definitive factor and may not be present at all.
Symptoms of ADHD usually appear when children are around 2 to 3 years of age. In some cases, the symptoms diminish in the teen-age years while in others, may persist into adulthood. The disorder is more prevalent in boys than in girls.
Some theorists feel genetics plays an important role in the disorder. Many theories have been proposed to explain the underlying mechanisms but up till now, no definitive cause has surfaced nor is there any clear understanding of the disorder. Even the diagnosis is based on diaphanous facts. Behavior similar to ADHD symptoms must be present in at least two settings, i.e. home and school. It must also be serious enough to disrupt school activities and/or interrupt harmonious relations with family members. A final diagnosis is made based on interviews with family, friends, teachers and, ultimately, with the child.
How is ADHD treated?
The most commonly used agents for the treatment of the disease are stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexadrine) and pemoline. Statistics show that upwards of 85% of children will respond to one of the three stimulants. There are, however, several side effects that accompany stimulant use. Among them are appetite suppression, sleep disturbances, headaches, stomach upsets and sometimes extreme irritability.
Fortunately, continued use of the drugs will find the side effects abating and they will only flare again with a change of dosage. The insomnia or sleep disturbances can be abated with a dosage adjustment, usually in the afternoon dose.
Some researchers are concerned that a child's growth may be affected with the medical regimen. Studies have demonstrated some minor decreases in height and weight in children on stimulants but there are no long term studies yet to show whether these effects will remain a problem.
Premoline (Cylert) has been associated with some cases of liver involvement so it is recommended that liver function tests be given while on the drug. Some symptoms that should trigger an immediate visit to the doctor are dark urine, stomach discomfort and pain, fatigue and light stools.
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