Hyperactivity Syndrome

Hyperactivity syndrome, also called ADHD, is a disorder that affects children. This relatively common disorder is often treated with medication, sending large numbers of children routinely to the school nurse's office in order to get medicated. While medications work well for some children, other children experience significant side effects. Untreated, ADHD can have a negative effect on schoolwork and social relationships.

Inattentiveness

• Children with ADHD have trouble sustaining attention for a long period of time. These children have difficulty listening, maintaining interest, processing information, following instructions, focusing and remembering details. Children with ADHD are prone to daydreaming.

Acting Out

• Many children misbehave from time to time, but children with ADHD seem to have a difficulty controlling their actions. They often fidget, move around the room, blurt out offensive comments and interrupt conversations. Patience is very difficult for those with ADHD. Nonstop talking is also a sign of ADHD.

Causes

• As of 2009, scientists are still trying to pinpoint the causes of hyperactivity syndrome. Sugar has been ruled out as a cause, but additives, brain injuries, lead, cigarette and drinking during pregnancy and genetic factors have all been linked to hyperactivity.

Medical Treatments

• There is a long list of medical treatments for ADHD. Two of the most common treatments for ADHD are Adderall, an amphetamine, and Ritalin, a methylphenidate. These drugs can have harmful side effects such as headaches, irritability, depression, upset stomach, insomnia, anxiety, high blood pressure, psychosis, paranoia and seizures.

Alternative Treatments

• ADHD has been linked to mineral deficiencies and essential fatty acid deficiencies. Thus, some treatments focus on changing the diets of those with ADHD. Herbal remedies also serve as an alternative to medical treatments. Some people say ginkgo, brahmi, Siberian ginseng, gotu kola and green oats all act as natural treatments without any of the side effects of Ritalin and Adderall.

Behavioral Therapy

• Behavioral therapy is often used to help children learn how to monitor their own behavior. Giving children positive reinforcements for positive behavior encourages children to pay attention to their own behavior and manage it without constant adult supervision. Relaxation techniques have also been found to help children learn to control their behavior.

Coexisting Behavioral Problems

• ADHD can be difficult to treat when a child is exhibiting other behavioral problems like conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder. ADHD can also be complicated by anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. These disorders have to be taken into account when a child is diagnosed.