ADHD: Fast Facts

Reviewed By:
Steven A. King, M.D.

ADHD is an acronym for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
ADHD is a set of chronic conditions marked by an inability to pay attention, hyperactivity and a tendency to engage in impulsive acts.
Children with ADHD often struggle academically and may have difficulty establishing friendships and other relationships. As a result, they may develop poor self-esteem.
There are three different forms of ADHD that affect children: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive and combined.
Predominantly inattentive ADHD is marked by difficulty paying attention.
Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive ADHD is marked by difficulty controlling behavior.
Combined ADHD combines symptoms of the other two forms of ADHD.
Combined ADHD is the most common form of ADHD.
Between 3 and 5 percent of school-aged children - or about 2 million children in the United States - have ADHD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Boys are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD, but the condition affects girls as well.
The exact cause of ADHD remains unknown.
Scientists now believe that changes in brain structure are a leading cause of ADHD.
Heredity also appears to play a role in the development of ADHD.
Poor parenting or disruptions at home or school cannot cause ADHD, although they may exacerbate the condition.
Diagnosis of AHD usually involves a variety of tests and interviews with parents, teachers and other adults who can describe the child's behavior.
Medications called psychostimulant drugs are the most common treatment for ADHD and appear to be extremely effective.
Psychotherapy is also helpful, particularly in children who are diagnosed with other disorders associated with ADHD.
Specialized learning techniques can help children with ADHD to perform better in school.
Parents can help their children to better deal with ADHD by providing additional structure to the child's life and making expectations clear.