ADHD

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is a common childhood disorder that can extend into adolescence and adulthood. At Atalla Medical Group, Marta Atalla, MD, help pediatric and adult patients with ADHD, manage their condition so it has a minimal impact on their learning, relationships, and daily life. Call the San Fernando, California, office today at 818-639-0209 or use the online tool to schedule an appointment to learn more about diagnosis and treatment for ADHD.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a brain disorder that interferes with a person’s ability to stay focused and pay attention. Some people with ADHD also have difficulty controlling their behavior and can be hyperactive.

Usually diagnosed in school-age children, ADHD symptoms can persist into the teenage years and through adulthood.

What causes ADHD, and who is at risk?

Researchers believe that ADHD may have a genetic link. It’s also related to environmental and developmental issues. People at risk of the condition may have been born prematurely, have a blood relative with ADHD, were born to a mother who used drugs, or experienced exposure to environmental toxins.

What symptoms suggest ADHD?

The most common and notable symptoms of ADHD include impulsivity, distractability, and inattention.

You may notice the following symptoms in yourself or a loved one:

• Forgetfulness
• Trouble with organization
• Inability to follow instructions
• Avoidance of tasks that require attention
• Fidgeting or squirming
• Interrupting people

You don’t have to have all of these symptoms to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms usually continue until you receive treatment; they don’t go away on their own.

How do you diagnose ADHD?

There’s not just one test to diagnose ADHD. The team at Atalla Medical Group usually starts their assessment with a comprehensive review of your health history and behavior. They’ll gather details about symptoms from the patient, and in the case of a child, any caregivers.

A thorough physical exam that looks at your hearing and vision helps rule out any physical problems that might be causing your symptoms. Your doctor also ensures there are no learning disabilities or mental health problems, like anxiety, before diagnosing ADHD.

How do you treat ADHD?

ADHD treatments combine talk therapy, behavioral therapy, and medications. The team customizes treatment plans according to the patient’s age and the severity of symptoms. Lifestyle support is also part of an ADHD treatment plan. You may benefit from dietary changes, more physical activity, and smart sleep habits.

Learn how you can manage ADHD with support from the team at Atalla Medical Group. Call the office today or use this website to schedule your appointment online.