Attention Deficit Disorder A to Z

ADD A to Z:
Your Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
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ADHD Help

By Dawn M. Olsen
 

When it comes to ADHD help, you typically have two options – pharmacological and non-pharmacological. For pharmaceutical drugs, the most commonly prescribed include Ritalin, Straterra, Concerta, Adderall, and Dexedrine. Depending on the degree of the disorder, you or your child’s doctor would recommend a specific dosage, to be taken daily. Some drugs are short lasting and some long lasting, but both with advantages and a few side effects to consider.

Keep in mind that when it comes to prescription medication for ADHD, the results seen will vary from one person to another so if you have another family member with ADHD, you cannot compare. The key is to work with a doctor you trust, one that has a good handle on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The other option for ADHD help is non-pharmacological, which is becoming more and more popular. Many people are interested in alternative options, tired of the side effects and risks associated with prescribed medication. For this, you have a wide array of choices to include herbal remedies, special education, tutoring, counseling, behavioral therapy, and even group psychotherapy.

In addition, today a number of self-help tools are available to help you learn to cope with the many challenges associated with ADHD. Through studies, we know that certain medications can provide as much as 80% relief for the symptoms of ADHD. Of these, Ritalin is the most widely prescribed. However, studies also show that a high number of people with ADHD also find relief through natural options. For medication, what happens is that the effects of the stimulants are beneficial. In fact, in many clinical studies, the results are significant. This means for the child with ADHD, being able to participate in class just like the other students, no longer struggling with making friends, finding homework enjoyable, and being just another child becomes a reality. For the adult with ADHD, these stimulants can make work easier to handle, help the individual focus, and again, live a normal life.

Okay, so when we talk about ADHD help and medication, obviously, a number of questions are raised. Just as with any medication, treating ADHD comes with some risks. Typical side effects experienced by some patients include insomnia, stomachaches, headaches, sleepiness, irritability, nervousness, reduced appetite, and staring. Then for a few people, stimulant medications can cause hallucinations, nervous tics, and bizarre behavior. Therefore, whether taken by a child or adult, ADHD medication needs to be considered very carefully.

Remember ADHD help comes in many forms. Even dietary change can make a huge difference in how this disorder affects the individual. The most common problem seen is that people with ADHD tend to have allergic reactions to food additives. Therefore, by eliminating dairy products, sugar, chocolate, and processed foods, the person will feel better but without the unwanted side effects of the drugs. Then, a number of natural remedies have proven to be beneficial for many people. ADHD help is available for this disorder and determining the right course is something between you and your doctor.

 


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