Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD:  difficulty paying attention.  Patient with this disorder have short attention span.  Commonly found in young children and may continue on through their adulthood.  Many ADD patients has hyperactivity disorder.  They usually have normal to high intelligence level.  Their activity level can be anywhere from normal to hypoactivity, to excessive (higher than normal ) called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD.  In most cases ADD patient have a specific learning disability that prevents them from taking in too much and sorting out information in the same way other children do.  ADD patients may require additional educational assistance due to their learning disorder.

Cause:  Studies shows that it may be inherited, but true cause is unknown.  Back in the 1970's researchers believed that ADD was caused by sugar intake along with food additives.  Today, that theory is controversial.  Studies shows that specific foods such as; wheat, and chocolate can trigger the condition in some hyperactive children.

Symptoms:

Continuous failure to pay attention

Short attention span

Excessive distractibility

Unable to organize or stick to an activity

Difficulty following instructions and difficulty completing a project

Hyperactivity, excessive talking and have frequent episodes of interruption

Impulsiveness

Treatment:

It is very important to have all those associated with the child to have a close cooperation  and team effort.  From parents, teachers, physicians, and psychological therapies.

Combination of medication  and Psychological therapy

Usually a stimulant such as Ritalin (methylphenidate) and Addereall (close supervision with doctor is needed when taking these medication--Use as prescribed by your doctor)

Note:  some stimulants for adults have a different affect on children and the above medications mentioned often calm hyperactivity in children.  IMPORTANT: monitoring and keeping in touch with your doctor is essential.

Joining a support group is helpful.  Contact National Organization for Children and Adults with Hyperactivity and Attention Disorders.