Recognition and Treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder

ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder, also known as ADHD- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is difficult to treat because it encompasses so many symptoms, some of which are contrary to each other. Those with ADD can demonstrate symptoms both passively and aggressively, though the one symptom that seems to be common in all those with ADD is difficulty in sitting still and concentrating. However, diagnosis and treatment of ADD cannot be based on that one characteristic alone. So then, how do professionals go about the diagnosis and treatment of ADD? According to the American Psychiatric Association, there are 14 symptoms of ADD, eight of which should be present for a diagnosis to be made.

What are some recognizable features of someone with ADD? Well, patience for waiting in lines, or waiting for responses in conversation will often be lacking. The inability to finish through with projects before beginning new ones is also a symptom. In addition, sufferers display impulsive behavior, sometimes putting themselves in danger. It is important to take all this information under consideration in the treatment of ADD.

Long-term treatment of ADD can be a challenge, as sufferers get bored easily and may have a difficult time sticking to a treatment plan. The fact that the treatment is greatly needed may still not make it less difficult for patients to follow through. Stimulation from external sources can be distracting for ADD sufferers due to less than ideal neural coordination. These distractions can come in the sound, visual, or emotional form. Blocking out distractions and focusing can result in frustration. All of these factors should be taken into account when planning ADD treatment.

What causes ADD/ADHD? One theory is that brain coordination is impaired by eating too much sugar, as sugar inhibits the brain's response to norepinephrine. Allergies can also be a cause, particularly allergies to food coloring, cow's milk, certain nuts, citrus fruits, and tomatoes. Other causes of ADD are said to be metal toxicity in the body, nutritional deficiency, and consumption of artificial flavors and preservatives. Another possible complicating factor to keep in mind in the diagnosis and treatment of ADD is soft drink consumption, as sodas contain phosphates which can upset calcium-phosphorous levels, exaggerating muscle activity. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or "SAD", can be mistaken for ADD. SAD is a depression, or prolonged feeling of sadness, due to lack of sunlight. In the treatment of ADD, it is important that other conditions which might have similar symptoms, such as SAD, are eliminated.

Is there any natural treatment of ADD? Such substances as fish oil, primrose oil, and flaxseed oil can be very beneficial. Supplements that contain a full, balanced, compliment of nutrients, antioxidants and vitamins are also recommended. Foods cooked in trans-fats, as well as foods containing additives, colors, or artificial ingredients such as aspartame should be avoided. These substances could exacerbate or set off ADD behaviors. Treating ADD naturally is a balancing act of eliminating harmful substances, while supplementing with beneficial nutrients and minerals.

Most sufferers of ADD are children, thought the disorder definitely occurs among adults as well. Adults with ADD may display such characteristics as poor management of time and money, which of course can lead to disastrous effects at home and at work. These adults are likely to have a poor self-image and can be easily frustrated or bored. In the treatment of ADD, age of the sufferer should b paid attention to, and it will likely be helpful to try and boost the patient's self-esteem.