Symptoms of ADHD in Children

Evaluating your child or teen's behavior can be difficult, especially for first-time parents. What is normal behavior? What are the signs and symptoms of ADHD? Our pediatrician has the answers. Drs. Haravu Lokesh, Rupal Desai, and Monica Porcelli at A to Z Pediatrics in New Port Richey, FL, provide a full range of pediatric medical services, including diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.

What You Need to Know about ADHD

So, how can you tell ADHD from normal behaviors like testing boundaries, and showing independence? These are some of the most common signs and symptoms to look for:

• Repetitive motions, like clapping hands
• Continuous fidgeting and squirming
• Inability to remain seated for an extended period of time
• Running or climbing at inappropriate times
• Excessive talking and blurting out comments
• Inability to focus on details
• Problems listening and following directions
• Difficulty getting and staying organized
• Frequently losing or forgetting things

If you notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, you should bring your child or teen to the pediatrician for an ADHD screening. If your child or teen does have ADHD, our pediatrician may recommend one or more of these effective treatment options:

Behavioral therapy, involving both the child or teen and the parents-this therapy can help establish techniques to limit destructive, aggressive, and inappropriate behaviors.

Lifestyle modification involving dietary and exercise alterations-sugar intake is reduced, and vitamin and nutrient intake is increased. A regular exercise regimen is stressed, to replace unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones.

Medication therapy involves taking medications to improve brain function, increase focus, and increase self-control. Medications may include Adderall and Ritalin, among others.

ADHD can have far-reaching consequences even into adulthood. Untreated ADHD can lead to:

• Delayed learning
• Destructive behaviors
• Poor performance in school or work
• Difficulty in relationships
• Inability to form friendships
• Aggressive, belligerent behaviors
• Moodiness, depression, and frustration
• Physical growth issues
• Difficulty sleeping

Want to Know More?

To find out more about the signs and symptoms of ADHD and how your pediatrician can help, call Drs. Haravu Lokesh, Rupal Desai, and Monica Porcelli at A to Z Pediatrics in New Port Richey, FL. You can reach them in the office by calling (727) 375-5242, so call today.