Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Causes of ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Causes of ADHD
The exact causes of ADHD are not known with certainty.
Experts do know that ADHD has a strong genetic component. In addition, they think that genes that control the levels of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters seem to be different in those with ADHD.
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Time Management for Teens and Tweens With ADHD
For teens and tweens with ADHD, simple tasks like cleaning their room or doing homework can seem to take forever, and often end in arguments and frustration. By teaching your kids a few simple time management skills, you can make these daily responsibilities much more manageable. And you can reduce stress for the whole family.
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In some cases, though, there is no genetic link to ADHD, but other common behaviors, such as smoking or drinking during pregnancy, as well as other obstetrical complications have been linked to ADHD in children.
Babies with low birth weight may have an increased risk of ADHD. The same is true for children who have had head injuries, particularly an injury to the frontal lobe. Young children who are exposed to lead or other environmental toxins such as PCBs or pesticides early in life may also have a higher risk of ADHD.
ADHD always begins in childhood. For some people, though, ADHD is not diagnosed until adulthood. That means adults who are newly diagnosed have actually had ADHD for years, and have had to endure symptoms as they've matured. In addition, research shows that between 30% and 70% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of the disorder when they become adults.
What is the genetic connection to ADHD?
ADHD tends to run in families. Studies have shown certain genetic characteristics that occur with high frequency in families where one or more family member has ADHD. Also, if one or both parents have ADHD, their children are more likely to
The exact causes of ADHD are not known with certainty.
Experts do know that ADHD has a strong genetic component. In addition, they think that genes that control the levels of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters seem to be different in those with ADHD.
Recommended Related to ADD-ADHD
Time Management for Teens and Tweens With ADHD
For teens and tweens with ADHD, simple tasks like cleaning their room or doing homework can seem to take forever, and often end in arguments and frustration. By teaching your kids a few simple time management skills, you can make these daily responsibilities much more manageable. And you can reduce stress for the whole family.
Read the Time Management for Teens and Tweens With ADHD article > >
In some cases, though, there is no genetic link to ADHD, but other common behaviors, such as smoking or drinking during pregnancy, as well as other obstetrical complications have been linked to ADHD in children.
Babies with low birth weight may have an increased risk of ADHD. The same is true for children who have had head injuries, particularly an injury to the frontal lobe. Young children who are exposed to lead or other environmental toxins such as PCBs or pesticides early in life may also have a higher risk of ADHD.
ADHD always begins in childhood. For some people, though, ADHD is not diagnosed until adulthood. That means adults who are newly diagnosed have actually had ADHD for years, and have had to endure symptoms as they've matured. In addition, research shows that between 30% and 70% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of the disorder when they become adults.
What is the genetic connection to ADHD?
ADHD tends to run in families. Studies have shown certain genetic characteristics that occur with high frequency in families where one or more family member has ADHD. Also, if one or both parents have ADHD, their children are more likely to