Treatment Options For ADHD In Children

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ADHD is an Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, a brain and neurological system disorder that mainly affects children below the age of seven. The condition is characterized by symptoms such as the child showing less attention, hyper-activeness, or impulsiveness than their peers. Commonly, symptoms of other disorders such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities can be mistaken to be a case of ADHD. Therefore, it is important to get a diagnosis from a qualified professional such as a psychiatrist and explore medical treatment options. It should be noted that cases of ADHD have shown consistent responses when subjected to treatment. In this article, treatment for adhd in children has been discussed.

Psycho-stimulants

These are drugs that balance the brain chemicals, neurotransmitters. They efficiently relieve ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and inattention within a short time. Alternatively, there are long-acting stimulants that are wearable on the hip area. It is important that the medical expert regularly visits progress reports and prescribes the right dosage according to the severity of the symptoms. Moreover, your child’s caregiver should explain all the possible side effects of the prescription in association with the child’s medical history. Otherwise, anti-depressants might be a good option to relieve ADHD symptoms.

Behavior therapy

Behavior therapy is another option of ADHD treatment procedure. It is mainly used as a co-treatment procedure for children who take psycho-stimulants. By working with a professional therapist, the child can be trained to master behavioral skills that will counter-effect the symptoms of ADHD. Such behavior skills include social skills therapy, reward systems to encourage gradual change, among others. It is advisable that the parents or entire family also see a therapist understand the child’s behavioral changes and learn assistive coping strategies.

Proper nutrition and Mineral supplements

A balanced diet is required for children with ADHD to increase their alertness. It is important to note that ADHD children lack vital nutrients such as zinc, magnesium, and iron. These supplements will alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD in children. Similarly, omega 3 supplements and fatty acids have been proved to decrease hyperactivity and boost attention levels.

eTNS

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Monarch external Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation(eNTS) device for treatment of 7-12-year-old children affected by ADHD. It is used by children who are not taking prescribed pharmaceuticals. Basically, the device is connected by a patch to the child’s forehead. It generates low-frequency electric input, which stimulates parts of the brain responsible for behavior traits, feelings, and attention. This device is used only at night, and all precautions should be followed as advised by the health expert. It is also important to regularly see the professional expert if any side effects are experienced and progress reports.

Home remedies

Studies have come up with appropriate home remedies, which can help to reduce the intensity of ADHD symptoms in children. For instance, doing physical exercise helps immensely as norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine hormones are released during the process. These hormones produce the same effect as psycho-stimulants. However, it is important to have the child do these activities long before the evening so as not to disrupt sleep patterns. Parents/guardians of these children should also be aware of keeping consistency and routines to keep the children from being overwhelmed/depressed. Additionally, it is healthy to look out for occasions to praise your child constantly, and this is healthy as ADHD children are prone to criticism.

 

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