Autism spectrum disorders include social, communicative, and behavioural challenges. These challenges may be moderate, severe, or anything in between. A diagnosis is based on the level of support required, therefore receiving an early diagnosis allows therapy to begin sooner.

What Conditions Are Considered Spectrum Disorders?

• Asperger’s syndrome – This is on the milder side of the autism spectrum. A person with Asperger’s syndrome may be highly intelligent and capable of managing their daily lives. They may be extremely concentrated on issues that attract them and discuss them continually. But they have a far more difficult time socially.
• Pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) – Most children with autism who had more severe symptoms than Asperger’s syndrome but not as severe as autistic disorder were included in this mouthful of a diagnosis.
• Autistic disorder – Compared to Asperger’s and PDD-NOS, this older term is farther along the autistic spectrum. It has many of the same indicators, but it’s more severe.
• Childhood disintegrative disorder – This was the least common and most severe part of the spectrum. It describes children, usually between the ages of 2 and 4, who develop normally and then rapidly lose numerous social, verbal, and mental skills. Often, these children develop a seizure disorder.

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What is ADHD in children?

The neurological illness known as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is centred in the brain. Another name for it is attention deficit disorder. Usually, a youngster receives the initial diagnosis. Three categories exist:

• ADHD, combined – The type that is most common is this one. This particular type of children exhibits hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are also easily distracted and struggle to focus.
• ADHD, impulsive/hyperactive – The least common type of ADHD is this one. This particular type of children exhibits hyperactivity and impulsivity. But their ability to focus is unaffected.
• ADHD, inattentive and distractable – This particular type of child tends to be easily distracted and inattentive.

What causes ADHD in a child?

It is unknown what specifically causes ADHD. However, evidence points to a hereditary component. The issue stems from the brain. Children with ADHD have low dopamine levels in their brains. Research indicates that children diagnosed with ADHD have reduced brain metabolism in the areas of the brain responsible for attention, social judgement, and movement.

Which children are at risk for ADHD?

ADHD is often passed down through families. Many parents of ADHD children themselves experienced signs of the disorder when they were younger. The condition is frequently encountered among brothers and sisters from the same family. Compared to girls, boys are more likely to experience mixed or hyperactive forms of ADHD.

Other factors that may raise the risk include:

• Cigarette smoking and alcohol use during pregnancy
• Exposure to lead as a young child
• Brain injuries
• Low birth weight

How is ADHD diagnosed in a child?

ADHD can be diagnosed by a pediatrician, child psychiatrist, or other mental health professional. In order to accomplish this, they will observe the child and speak with parents and instructors. Results from neurological, physical, and mental health tests are also used to make the diagnosis. It is possible to rule out further health issues with some tests. Others might examine specific skill sets and ways of thinking.

How is ADHD treated in children?

Treatment will be determined by your child’s symptoms, age, and overall health status. It will also depend on the severity of the ailment. 

ADHD treatment options include:

• Psychostimulant medicines
• Non-stimulant medicines
• Behavior management training for parents.
• Other treatment such as self-management, education programs, and assistance through your child’s school can also help.

How can I help my child live with ADHD?

You can assist your child by doing the following:

• Attend all of your child’s doctor’s appointments.
• Consult the medical professional caring for your kid about the other professionals who will be providing care for them. A group of professionals, including teachers, psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, counselors, and school psychologists, may provide care for your child. The demands of your child and the intensity of their ADHD symptoms will determine who will be on your child’s care team.
• Follow your treatment plans, both educational and behavioral. If the plan isn’t working, collaborate with your team to make adjustments.
• Administer medications as directed.
• Inform people of your child’s ADHD.
• Seek for support from local community services.

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