ADHD is a neurobiological condition present from birth that affects children’s attention and behavior. “Attention is a crucial executive function for organizing our daily activities, evaluating the consequences of our decisions, and assimilating new knowledge into memory. A child with attention deficit may have difficulty concentrating on schoolwork or activities that require sustained mental effort,” says Dr. Pamela Muñoz, a pediatric neurologist at our clinic, who provides us with valuable information on this subject.

How do we know if we have good attention?

To recognize whether we have good attention, we must observe our ability to stay focused on an activity without distractions and carry it through to completion. There are psychometric tests performed by psychologists and neuropsychologists that can measure in a standardized way the attentional processes of everyone.

Some signs that may indicate that a child has attention deficits fall into three areas:

Inattention

• Difficulty concentrating on activities due to being distracted by other stimuli around them.
• Failure to complete tasks due to distractions.

Hyperactivity

• Constant urge to move around, either in place or in the environment where he/she finds him/herself.
• Difficulty in following instructions.

Impulsivity

• Failure to integrate appropriately in group games.
• Interrupting the conversation of others.
• Being easily frustrated.
• Playing rough.

*It is important to note that these characteristics must be present in all environments where the child lives (home, school and with peers).

At what age can we detect ADHD?

In the first years of life, children may show increased restlessness and difficulty completing activities, which may be an early sign of ADHD. Before the age of 5 to 6 years, these characteristics can be considered part of child development. After age 6, an accurate diagnosis can be established, which may extend into adolescence and adulthood, as many parents of diagnosed children also recognize similar symptoms in themselves.

What does the treatment involve?

• The treatment of ADHD focuses on a comprehensive accompaniment that includes psychological support to the patient and their families, psychoeducational accompaniment in the school environment and parent training, since a strengthened family that accompanies the child obtains great achievements.
• Some cases may require pharmacological treatment with neurostimulants, especially when ADHD has a significant impact on the child’s social and academic life. The only professionals qualified to prescribe pharmacological treatment are pediatric neurologists and child psychiatrists in the case of children.

Remember:

The diagnosis and treatment of ADHD should be performed by a professional. Clinica Ricardo Palma has specialists in neuropediatrics, child psychiatry and psychology to provide a multidisciplinary management of ADHD and improve the quality of life of our young patients.

Dr. Pamela Muñoz
Pediatric neurologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma