Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood disorder that affects 3 to 7 percent of school-aged children. Even though the number of children who are diagnosed with ADHD increases every day, there are still many little-known facts out there that most parents don’t know. Here are some surprising facts about ADHD that can help you to better understand your child’s condition:
• Tooth Grinding is Linked to ADHD: Unfortunately, it turns out that your child’s ADHD anxiety doesn’t sleep when your kid does. Research suggests that children who have the habit of involuntarily grinding their teeth, known as bruxism, are more likely to develop anxiety, stress and hyperactivity, and has also been linked to ADHD.
• ADHD is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Diagnosis: There is more than just one type of ADHD, there is actually three types of ADHD and the diagnosis depends on the visible symptoms:
o Inattentiveness: Not listening when spoken to, being easily distracted, having trouble paying attention and organizing activities.
o Hyperactivity: Includes fidgeting, excessive and inappropriate running or climbing when it’s not appropriate, trouble with quiet play.
o Impulsivity: Having trouble waiting, interrupting, or saying inappropriate things without thinking.
Only some kids with ADHD are hyperactive, while others may be calm, but have a form of ADHD that makes it hard for them to pay attention.
• ADHD is Often Mistaken for Other Conditions: Some health problems have symptoms similar to ADHD, such as anxiety, depression, and certain types of learning disabilities. Other mental disorders, such as personality disorder or OCD, can also be misdiagnosed as ADHD.
• ADHD is Associated With Short-Term Memory Problems: Research has shown that people with ADHD may have impaired short-term memory. This can lead to them having difficulty remembering assignments or completing tasks that require their focus or concentration.
• Sugar and TV Do Not Cause ADHD: While sugar intake, watching too much TV and a chaotic family life can worse ADHD symptoms, research does not show that they actually cause the condition. It does, however, appear to run in families. Research involving families, twins, and children who were adopted suggest that there is a strong genetic influence in ADHD risk.
Resource: http://www.everydayhealth.com/adhd/tooth-grinding-poor-memory-and-more-surprising-facts-about-adhd.aspx
