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Overview

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD or ADHD) is a neurobehavioral developmental disorder. It is the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder in children, affecting about 3 to 5% of children globally. Symptoms begin before seven years of age and are characterized by a persistent pattern of impulsiveness and inattention, with or without a component of hyperactivity. ADHD is diagnosed twice as frequently in boys as in girls, though studies suggest this discrepancy may be due to subjective bias. ADHD is generally a chronic disorder, with 30 to 50% of people diagnosed in childhood continuing to have symptoms into adulthood. As they mature, adolescents and adults with ADHD are likely to develop coping mechanisms to compensate for their impairment. Four percent of American adults are estimated to live with ADHD.

ADHD management usually involves a combination of medications, behavior modifications, lifestyle changes, and counseling.

Treatment

Feingold diet - restrict food additives / colors

History

• see Heinrich Hoffman
  He was first to describe Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 1845 in a fun poem.
  "But Fidgety Phil
  He won't sit still;
  He wriggles
  And giggles,
  and then, I declare,
  Swings backwards and forwards,
  And tilts up his chair."