Will ADHD Go Away?

As a parent, you may find yourself desperately hoping that your child, who has been diagnosed with ADHD, will outgrow this disorder. Unfortunately, there is not a clear answer to the question of whether or not ADHD ever goes away. However, there is some promising research that suggests ADHD can be managed by medication and/or natural means.

There is even some research to suggest that ADHD does, in fact, "go away" if causal factors can be identified and eliminated. There are varying opinions regarding the causal factors and treatments of ADHD, and, depending on the approach and results, experts come to different conclusions about ADHD's permanence.

The Role of Food in ADHD

An interesting study came out earlier this year (2011) regarding the role of diet in ADHD. This study suggested that alterations in a child's diet could greatly reduce or eliminate ADHD symptoms. Admittedly, the study said, dietary changes do not work in all cases of ADHD, but they did make a difference in the majority of test cases (64%, according to the research). For those 64%, their ADHD did indeed seem to "go away."

So you could consider this a hopeful possibility for your child; perhaps he or she is one of the ones whose ADHD symptoms are food-related. The doctors in the above study said that looking for a causal factor first - when ADHD symptoms are first observed and diagnosed - is key to managing each case according to its unique patient. Talk to the health care provider(s) of your choice about the dietary route if you think that may be the culprit.

Medication and Therapy

Many ADHD sufferers, families of sufferers, and medical professionals do not think that ADHD ever really goes away. Rather, they believe it can be managed through medication and therapy. Instead of ADHD "getting better," this camp maintains that the brain can be re-trained and symptoms managed so that the ADHD seems to go away - but actually, the patient has just learned how to manage and live with it.

Because research shows that the brains of ADHD-diagnosed individuals actually operate differently than normal brains, parents and doctors alike often focus on those cognitive symptoms and seek to normalize them. Generally, the cause of these abnormal brain patterns is not sought out by those who take this approach; the fact that the abnormalities exist is enough to warrant treatment of the abnormalities themselves.

Symptom Management

Regardless of which view you hold with regard to ADHD, there is a general consensus that symptoms can be managed. A diagnosis of ADHD does not necessarily mean a life-long battle with the same ADHD symptoms. As you work with various health care providers (and do not be afraid to "shop around" until you find one whose views you can work with), you will hopefully come to a point where you are comfortable with your treatment approach.

What Goes On in the ADHD Brain?

What is going on in the brains of people who are diagnosed with ADHD? Is there really something happening inside the head of an ADHD sufferer? Research shows that there is actually quite a lot going on in the ADHD brain. (In this article, the acronym ADHD includes ADD as well.)

Areas of the Brain Affected by ADHD

Research shows that specific areas of the brain are affected by ADHD. The frontal lobes, cortex, limbic system, and reticular activating system are all involved.

* The frontal lobes are, as the name suggests, in the front of the brain behind the forehead. This area is instrumental in concentration, the ability to make sound decisions, learn, and remember.

The frontal lobe also helps you pay attention to a task and seeing it to completion. Further, normal frontal lobes play a role in situation-appropriate behavior and emotional impulse control. Research and imagery have shown that slow brain wave activity across the frontal lobes is correlative with ADHD symptoms and diagnosis.

* The cortex - or more specifically, the inhibitory mechanisms of the cortex - are sort of like the body's impulse control center. A properly functioning cortex results in a "reining in" of hyperactivity and/or angry outbursts, for example. In ADHD, the inhibitory mechanisms of the cortex do not function properly, resulting in little or no impulse control in certain situations.

* The limbic system is deep in the center and at the base of the brain. It also acts as our "watchman," alerting us to alarming or dangerous situations. If the limbic system is not functioning correctly, then normal emotional changes and energy levels may be affected, as well as sleep patterns and stress management. Those with malfunctioning limbic systems may be subject to emotional outbursts or be hypersensitive to their surroundings.

* Located at the back of the head in the brain stem, the reticular activating system (RAS) is said to control waking and sleeping patterns, and plays a role in the ability to concentrate and focus attention. In the ADHD brain, aspects of the RAS may not be functioning normally.

It may seem ironic that stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD. To observe the behavior of someone (particularly a child) who has ADHD, you might think that they need something to sedate them. But as noted above, slow brain wave activity in these key areas seems to be connected to ADHD symptoms, so increasing the brain's activity via stimulants makes sense.

ADHD - Who is at Risk?

Research regarding possible causes, treatments, and risk factors for ADHD is ongoing. Thus, parents and medical professionals sometimes have to rethink their ideas about ADHD based on recent research. In understanding something about who is at risk for developing ADHD, it's important to note that what role genetics, environment, injury, and parenting practices play in the development of ADHD is not a settled issue.

Following are some of the known and conjectural risk factors for developing ADHD.

Demographics

What kinds of children develop ADHD symptoms? Are there are particular groups that tend to be more susceptible to this disorder? Boys are more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ADHD, but some sources point out that new diagnostic techniques and insights may show more females with ADHD than was previously thought.

Research indicates that ADHD is a universal disorder, and is not particular to any ethnic group or culture. However, ADHD tends to be more discernable in cultures that require children to attend school.

Genetics

Health experts have pointed out that there's no such thing as a genetic epidemic, and ADHD diagnoses are rising at epidemic proportions. Nonetheless, there may be genetic components besides gender.

ADHD has been observed running in families, but that may not necessarily indicate an actual gene being involved. Instead, parenting practices or environmental factors may come into play, as families tend to raise their children similarly to how they were raised.

Environment

The role of the environment in the development of ADHD is controversial, and is still undergoing research. Recent findings do point to some distinct possibilities in this regard, however.

Even before a baby is born, environmental factors may play a role in increasing the risk of the baby developing ADHD. Research indicates a connection between maternal smoking, drinking, and/or drug abuse and the development of ADHD symptoms in the child later on.

Exposure to pesticides has been strongly implicated in the development of ADHD. In the early spring of 2010, a highly-publicized study pointed to the possible correlation between pesticide exposure and the development of ADHD in children.

Exposure to lead in children under the age of 6 may also play a role in ADHD.

Natural health experts point out the role of artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, and other food additives in ADHD. They also note the overall role of a healthy diet in preventing and managing ADHD. So children whose families do not practice healthy eating habits may be at greater risk for ADHD.

Injury

According to research, children and babies who suffer head injuries are much more likely to develop ADHD than children who are not injured.

Parenting Style

Studies around the world have indicated certain parental behaviors that are consistent among families with ADHD kids. But it's unclear as to which came first - did the parenting style result in or exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD in the kids? Or did the kids' ADHD produce the same parental reactions and subsequent parenting styles?

Helping and ADHD Person To Succeed

A diagnosis of ADD/ADHD does not mean a life sentence of failure to succeed. People with ADD/ADHD can be successful, and parents and teachers can help these kids on their journeys toward a successful life. Here are some tips that may help.

Specific Directions

One of the things that can be challenging for kids with ADHD is not knowing how to make things happen. Children with this disorder are not acting willfully, experts assure us; rather, they simply don't know how to do the things they're asked to do.

They may also find it hard to remember directions. So when you're asking a child with ADHD to do something, remember that he or she may need really specific advice on how to get that task done. For example, instead of saying, "Clean your room," you could break it down into simple steps. Instead, you might say something like, "Let's clean your room. First, let's pick up the Legos off the floor, put them in the bin, and put the bin on the shelf." This language also includes you as the overseer and helper, which can help motivate a child with ADHD to stick to the task.

It's Okay to Help

While most experts agree that it's not a good idea to do everything for a child, your active participation may go a long way in helping an ADD/ADHD child complete his or her tasks. As you're breaking things down into manageable steps, follow through and encourage the child along the way. It may help to show him or her how it's done (without taking over and doing it all yourself).

Structure and Routine

Whether at home or in school, sources note that routines and structure can be a tremendous help to those with ADD/ADHD. While it's a good idea to be somewhat flexible and know when to compromise, a routine and structured activities can help a child with ADD/ADHD feel calmer and better able to focus.

Communication between Teachers and Parents

Parents should remember that teachers are busy - there's more than just their child in the classroom! But parents can help their ADD/ADHD child succeed by meeting with the teacher and accepting feedback from him or her throughout the school year. It can help your child do better in school if you the parent are involved and actively working with the teacher and staff of the school.

Goals and Reinforcement

Children with ADD/ADHD need clear directions and daily goals, say experts. As you make a behavior plan with your child, make sure your expectations are clear and that you reward success with positive reinforcement.

ADHD - The Connection With Chemical Exposure

Is There a Connection between Chemical Exposure and ADHD?


A growing body of evidence links chemical exposure to the development of ADD/ADHD in children. Some chemicals are more strongly implicated that others, and some of the studies are inconclusive. However, the possible connection between toxic chemicals and ADD/ADHD cannot be ignored.

Following is a list of common chemicals implicated in the development of ADD/ADHD.

Phthalates

These ubiquitous chemicals are used to soften plastics and in cosmetics. They are often present in scented products as "fragrance stabilizers," and they also can be found in lotions and make-up. Studies have shown that pregnant women who used phthalate-containing cosmetics while pregnant were more likely to report behavioral problems with their children over the course of several years. Korean studies have also shown a probable link between phthalate exposure and the development of ADHD.

Pesticides

The role of pesticides in ADHD is becoming more and more well known. Organophosphates are the specific type of pesticide that are indicated in ADHD, and some telling studies showed the presence of organophosphates in the urine of ADHD-positive children even though the children did not live in an agricultural community. This means that the children were exposed by a means other than proximity to a farm where organophosphates were being sprayed.

Studies show that children with higher levels of organophosphates in their urine are more likely to have the symptoms of ADHD. Organophosphates inhibit a vital brain chemical in insects - acetylcholinesterase, or AChE - resulting in the death of the insect. Research shows that, in humans, if AChE does not function correctly, symptoms of ADHD may result.

Heavy Metals

Exposure to heavy metals is known to have a profound effect on the brain, and research suggests that such exposure may result in ADHD.

* Lead - Several studies have indicated that lead's interference with neurological function can result in ADHD. Lead paint in old houses and on some imported toys are the usual means of exposure in children.

* Mercury - This controversial metal was once used as a preservative in certain vaccines and as a component in dental fillings. It is used in batteries, thermometers, and other items. Mercury is liquid at room temperature and turns to vapor rather rapidly if it's heated, so regions where trash is burned in industrial incinerators may be at greater risk of mercury exposure. Mercury poisoning sometimes manifests with ADHD-like symptoms.

Cleaning Products

Many household cleaning products come with cautionary labels. As consumers, many of us have gotten so used to these warnings that we may shrug them off, or we figure that if we're not drinking large amounts of the cleaner then it's harmless. But toxic means toxic, and even if you're not actively ingesting the substance, you and your family may be ingesting, inhaling, and absorbing (through the skin and mucous membranes) low levels of the toxic substance.

Over time, these toxins may accumulate in the body, which might result in ADHD-like symptoms. Because the ADHD does not follow immediately upon exposure to a cleaner, it's often not considered as a possible cause.

Signs and Symptoms of ADD/ADHD in Adults and Children

Do you think your child may have ADD/ADHD? What about your spouse or yourself? ADD/ADHD can present differently in children than in adults, and the symptoms for both age groups can mimic those of other problems. Here is a brief list of symptoms of ADD/ADHD in children and in adults.

Signs and Symptoms of ADD/ADHD in Children

According to experts, most signs and symptoms of ADD/ADHD in children appear before the age of seven. It's a good idea to distinguish between "normal childhood behavior" and ADD/ADHD, which is something a qualified health professional can help you with. Here are some of the signs of this disorder in children.

* Staring off into space - This is a symptom of ADD that many people may not recognize, since many people associate these disorders with hyperactivity. One of the reasons why there is a distinction made between ADD and ADHD is because hyperactivity is not necessarily a component of ADD. A child who is a "dreamer" and seems detached from reality, staring out the window for long periods rather than paying attention, may have ADD.

* Chronic fidgeting - Yes, nearly all children fidget. In children with ADD/ADHD, though, it may be a compulsive, repetitive behavior that is distracting and disruptive. When a child feels like he or she has to fidget, it may be ADD/ADHD rather than just childish wiggles.

* Excessive talking - Children with ADD/ADHD tend to blurt out things at inappropriate times, and the things they blurt may be inappropriate. Even if corrected, children with ADD/ADHD seem unable to control this impulse.

Signs and Symptoms of ADD/ADHD in Adults

* The workaholic - Adults with ADD/ADHD may be driven to work, work, work. This may tie in with "hyperfocus," a somewhat ironic symptom of ADD/ADHD in adults. They may get so focused on a task or project that they completely lose track of the passage of time, the needs of their families, and so forth.

* Extreme disorganization - In this day and age, many adults juggle many roles, and it's not unusual to feel or be disorganized. In an adult with ADD/ADHD, however, it's a chronic problem that may seriously inhibit their productivity. They are "buried" in clutter in the car, home, and office, and can't seem to get out from under it.

* Poor time management - If an adult has ADD/ADHD, he may feel like he can never "get it together." Charts, notes, and lists only add to the clutter, and the person often feels overwhelmed by organizing even small tasks.

If any of these symptoms seems to describe you and/or your child, it's important to seek out medical advice to get a proper diagnosis and to rule out nutritional deficiencies, low blood sugar, and other issues that may present similar symptoms.

ADHD - Alternative Treatments

There are alternative treatments available for ADHD - some of them quite effective. This may come as a relief to parents and caregivers who want to avoid medication, or for those who simply want to explore alternative treatments.

Biofeedback

This relatively new treatment option involves measuring the brain waves of a person with ADHD, and translating those brain waves into a discernable consequence.

For example, a child with ADHD plays a video game, and as long as he pays attention, he can play; but if his brain waves show that his attention beginning to wander, the game stops. This type of treatment is said to make the patient aware of his or her brain activity and the resulting symptoms so that the patient can take control and make changes to his or her concentration and focus.

Nature

"Nature Deficit Disorder" is becoming an accepted term these days. Interestingly, there is evidence that nature deprivation may in fact play a role in ADHD. Children who regularly experience time outdoors in a natural setting may find their ADHD symptoms decreasing.

Diet

Studies have shown that changes in the diet can improve ADHD symptoms. For a dietary plan that meets your and your family's needs, it's a good idea to work with a professional in this field. But generally speaking, the "ADHD Diet" emphasizes whole, fresh, organic foods, a decrease in sugar consumption, and the elimination of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Many ADHD diets also cut out gluten.

Behavioral Therapy

Often suggested in combination with medication, behavioral therapy teaches parents and kids alike on how to shape the behavior of the child with ADHD. Parents are instructed as to how to speak to and teach their ADHD child, and the child learns through positive rewards for appropriate behavior while working to eliminate inappropriate behavior. Skills like time management and organizational skills are taught in behavioral therapy.

Talk Therapy

Considered particularly helpful for adults with ADHD, talk therapy can help an ADHD patient work through his or her feelings and receive some coping advice from the therapist. Talk therapy can help with some of the frustration and depression that ADHD patients sometimes experience.

Exercise

Children who get regular exercise may be less likely to exhibit ADHD symptoms, sources say - and children who have been diagnosed with ADHD may experience a decrease in symptoms if they participate in regular exercise.

Environmental Changes

Some people choose to alter their environment and/or that of their ADHD child(ren) in order to decrease symptoms. Environmental changes that may be of benefit in managing ADHD symptoms include:

* Establishing a daily routine
* Establishing a regular bedtime
* De-cluttering the home and the child's room
* Reducing exposure to pesticides and other potentially problematic chemicals

ADHD - The Nutrition Connection

The issue of the nutrition connection with ADHD has been subjected to multiple studies, and generally, those studies have pointed to strong connections between this disorder and nutrition. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, food allergies, pesticide exposure from non-organic produce, etc. all have implications in the symptoms of ADHD.

Here are some of the ways that nutrition is connected to ADHD, and the dietary considerations involved.

Artificial Colors and Preservatives

Sources say that artificial colors and preservatives are not necessarily instrumental in exacerbating ADHD symptoms; but for those who do have sensitivities to these substances, removing them from the diet has been known to produce dramatic results. Cutting out artificial colors and preservatives does not cause harm, so eliminating these things from the child's diet and watching for symptom improvement is a viable course of action.

Gluten Sensitivity

The possible connection between gluten sensitivity and ADHD is interesting. Many children with ADHD also have celiac disease, or gluten intolerance. In this disorder, gluten (a protein found in wheat and other grains) inflames the intestinal lining and can eventually permeate the intestinal walls, creating leaky gut syndrome. This causes proteins and other undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, where they can cause a host of problems.

Many parents of children with ADHD have found success in eliminating gluten from their child's diet, allowing the gut to heal and stopping the cycle of inflammation.

Iron Deficiency

Symptoms of iron deficiency (poor attention span, behavioral problems) can mimic those of ADHD. Some doctors recommend an iron supplement for all children regardless of ADHD diagnosis. So it's a good idea to test for iron deficiency if your child is exhibiting symptoms reminiscent of ADHD.

Low Blood Sugar

Another problem that can mimic ADHD symptoms is low blood sugar. The inability to concentrate, "the shakes" and jitters, and hyperactivity are all symptoms of low blood sugar. Not all kids react to low blood sugar with these symptoms, and not all kids suffer visibly from long periods of not eating (or eating the wrong kinds of foods). But in some children, low blood sugar can present dramatic symptoms.

The best way to alleviate these symptoms is with a healthy, whole foods diet that is low in sugar and includes healthy snacks. Children should always have an adequate breakfast, too.

Organic Foods

Because of recent studies linking ADHD and pesticide exposure, many parents choose to have their families eat only organic produce. This minimizes pesticide exposure by ingestion.

ADHD Treatment Options

While ADHD is diagnosed according to common symptoms, how individuals and families cope with the disorder varies quite a bit. Some individuals use medication only; others use a combination of medication and therapy; still others shun medication altogether. Here is a brief discussion of some of the common treatments for ADHD.

1. Medication

It may seem ironic, but the medications given to people with ADHD are stimulants. This is because the brains of those with ADHD tend to have slow brain wave patterns. The stimulants compensate for and "speed up" this slow activity, normalizing symptoms. Common medications include:

* Ritalin
* Adderall
* Concerta

Some medical professionals may also prescribe anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication.

2. Lifestyle

Lifestyle changes are a viable and growing means of treating ADHD. Here are some of the common adjustments families may choose to make in order to manage family members' ADHD.

# Diet

The role of diet in ADHD is becoming more and more understood. Many families have had success by switching to whole, organic foods. Generally, dietary changes that may be of benefit include:

* Eating whole foods that are locally and/or organically grown
* Including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet
* Cutting out all gluten
* Eating healthy fats (in supplement and/or food form)
* Removing trans fats from the diet
* Removing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives from the diet
* Using natural leavening in baked goods
* Limiting white sugar

# Exercise

Like the popular drugs for ADHD, exercise is said to boost the production of "good" brain chemicals, chemicals that are often lacking or malfunctioning in ADHD individuals. Also, exercise burns off some of that restless energy. Regular exercise is an important aspect of health for everyone, so this is a good lifestyle change that the whole family can adopt.

# Routine

Some families and individuals find that the implementation of a regular routine helps relieve ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD tend not to cope with change well, so a predictable routine may help them feel more secure and calmer.

# Sleep

Establishing regular bedtimes that allow for adequate sleep may help. Children with ADHD are notoriously difficult sleepers, but regularity and a bedtime routine may help.

3. Therapy

Therapy and counseling have benefitted both children and adults with ADHD. Depending on the type of therapy, patients are generally taught coping mechanisms, behavioral skills, and self-esteem. Biofeedback is another treatment option that teaches patients to recognize their own brain waves and anticipate (and curtail) upcoming behavior.

4. Back to Nature

Some studies have shown convincing evidence that time outdoors helps alleviate ADHD symptoms. Apparently, the greener the better, as studies show that outdoor settings like parking lots do not seem to have the same positive effect as outdoor environments that included trees, grass, and other natural elements.

Is ADHD a Discipline Issue?

The whole subject of ADHD is not short on controversy - some people insist that ADHD is a "manufactured disorder" intended as a ploy to sell more Ritalin; others point out that ADHD is a real disorder with discernable brain wave activity that is correlative to symptoms. Amid all the discussion is the quiet voice that questions the disciplinary practices of some parents with ADHD-positive children.

The "Manufactured Disorder" Approach

There are some who believe that ADHD is not a "real" disorder, and that it's a manufactured label that was pushed by the pharmaceutical industry to make money. There are those in the medical profession who believe that ADHD is not a true disorder as well, or that it is a condition brought about largely by environment (home and school), and/or unrealistic expectations of children.

Those who believe that ADHD is not "real" point out the potentially harmful and even fatal side effects of Ritalin, the most commonly prescribed drug for this disorder.

Proponents of this "manufactured disorder" approach point to the fact that children with ADHD suddenly "develop" symptoms when they start school. They maintain that this could indicate the presence of a code of behavior that the child can't live up to, and is therefore diagnosed with ADHD.

Those who believe ADHD is manufactured also lament the fact that medication is given to children with ADHD symptoms while the child's home environment and his/her parents' parenting style are not taken into consideration. Some doctors who disbelieve the reality of ADHD maintain that it's not overdiagnosed or misdiagnosed; they claim it simply does not exist at all.

The "Real Disorder" Approach

Other medical professionals claim adamantly that ADHD is a true disorder, a chemical imbalance and true malfunction of the brain. Those in this camp do not necessarily focus on Ritalin, but instead tend to take a balanced treatment approach, not necessarily shunning medication, but advocating combining it with other forms of therapy to bring about symptom relief.

Because ADHD is a brain disorder, say proponents of the "real disorder" approach, it's easy to label it as a character defect or the result of poor discipline. They liken this to the frustrations that people with depression undergo as friends, family, and colleagues try to "cheer them up" only to be met with no success.

Those who claim ADHD is a true disorder point out that many kids with symptoms do not exhibit them only at school, but to some degree in all situations. It defines their approach to life.

The Role of Discipline

There are helpful tips for parents as to how best to discipline their ADHD child. But experts note that lack of discipline is probably not implicated in causing ADHD, although some people will insist that more or harsher punishment will "solve" the problem. It may instead be an issue of ineffective discipline - ADHD kids often need specific disciplinary techniques to thrive.