ADHD

Question 1

Diagnostic criterea of ADHD

Answer 1

• cannot sustain attention
• excessively active
• socially disinhibited
• easily distracted and impulsive
• poor at relatioships
• temper tantrums
• poor school performance - lose self esteem
• more common in boys

Question 2

Management of ADHD

Answer 2

• pre-school/ school-aged
  
  • ​build concentration skills
  • encouragement quiet self-occupation
  • increase self-esteem
  • moderate extreme behaviours
• medications
  
  • ​restrcited to 6+
  • stimulants: methylphenidate (ritalin)/ dexamphetamine
  • non-stimulants: atomoxetine
  • yearly trial off medications to evaluate continuing need
• diet
  
  • ​contraversial effects
  • ?reduce sugar/ e-numbers/ artificial colourants and additives
  • if particular foods evokke behaviour problems then avoid
  • food/ drinks with caffiene not advised