ADHD stands for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Most children who have ADHD have signs of both hyperactivity and inattention while some may have only signs of attention problems. The inattentive type is sometimes referred to as attention-deficit disorder (ADD). However, ADD is really a form of ADHD.
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
The primary indicator for ADHD includes inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that is inappropriate for the childs age. However, it is important to note that for an accurate diagnosis, a thorough and extensive history including neuropsychological testing along with a physician evaluation is essential.
Neuro-psychological testing helps to objectively assess attention and evaluate other aspects of learning such as memory, reading, and auditory language skills.Interestingly, parents of children with ADHD often notice tendencies toward hyperactivity and impulsivity that are present even from a very early age.
It is common for hyperactive children who have ADHD to show signs of consistent hyperactive behavior before the age of 7. Mothers of children with ADHD sometimes even remember that their baby was unusually active in the womb, while many parents of children with ADHD often describe their children as having been fussy and difficult to quiet as babies.