Parents are often concerned about their child's health and well-being. And most of the time, their concerns are valid. Unlike adults, infants and toddlers are susceptible to getting sick. It is because their immune system has not fully developed; thus, they don't produce antibodies.
But, apart from physical wellness, infants can also develop neonatal neurologic conditions such as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), ASD (autism spectrum disorder), or CDD (complex developmental disorder).
These conditions influence the kid's mental and physical growth and are often undiagnosed until 5-10 years. So, as a parent, it is your responsibility to learn about all these conditions to protect your child.
Nevertheless, learning about each neurological condition is not feasible in a single blog post. That's why this article will be focused on ADHD- the most common condition. Let's begin!
What Is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common chronic condition. According to statistics, approximately 4% to 12% of kids are diagnosed with this condition. As the name suggests, kids with this condition are impulsive, hyperactive, and fail to pay attention for a long span of time.
It affects their brain development and functioning, making it difficult for them to perform regular activities such as reading, sitting still, listening, and others.
What Are Its Causes?
Though this condition is genetic, there are several other risk factors that can trigger the condition's development. Some of them are listed below.
Head Injury
Studies have shown that children who suffer from a severe head injury might develop attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. One in Five kids who had TBI later was diagnosed with this condition. However, its symptoms may take up to 10 years to show.
Prematurity
How pregnancy and childbirth are taken care of can lead to the risk of ADHD. Research reveals that if a mother consumes alcohol or smokes during pregnancy, the chances of a kid developing the condition elevates. Likewise, if the baby is born before the due date, i.e., prematurely, it can lead to this condition.
Use Of Tylenol
Tylenol or Acetaminophen is a common medicine pregnant women take to handle pain. However, recent studies discovered that using this medication during pregnancy leads to ADHD, ASD, and other conditions.
So, if your child is diagnosed with ADHD or even autism because the mother consumed Tylenol, you can file a lawsuit. Commonly it is known as a Tylenol autism injury claim and comprises all lawsuits filed in the Federal courts against manufacturers and retailers. The lawyers will help you get the rightful financial compensation so that you can take care of your child.
Brain Function
As you may know, different brain areas control different abilities. When the part that controls attention and focus does not work properly or exhibits low functioning, it is likely to be due to ADHD.
What Are Its Signs?
As discussed above, the signs of this condition are not visible until kids reach the age of four and above. Nonetheless, they may begin to show the following characteristics.
Challenging temperament
Language and motor skills delay
Trouble in concentrating
Hyperactivity or constant fussiness
Impulsiveness
Apart from these signs, you may find yourself often describing your child as a handful and difficult to control. It is important to understand that your kids do not misbehave or act disobediently intentionally. Instead, it is due to their conditions. So, you have to be extra careful to take their utmost care.
If you are unsure whether your little one has this condition, it would be best to consult the doctor. They can conduct a few checkups, including behavior changes, and provide appropriate treatment.
How To Treat This Condition?
There are different types of treatments that are provided as per the severity of the child's condition. It includes (but is not limited to) medications, behavior therapy, parent coaching, and school support.
A treatment plan is prepared to boost the emotional stability, attention span, and behavior of the patient, regardless of age.
In addition, you as a parent can help improve your child's condition by:
Learning about the condition and visiting the doctor often for therapy.
Understand your child's strengths and help polish them.
Connect with support groups to stay aware of medical advancements to treat your child.
Talk to your child to know about their difficulties.
Undoubtedly, this is not going to be an easy journey. However, with proper treatment, you can assist your child in living a better and happier life.
The Bottom Line
Knowing that your little one is suffering from a disorder is surely disheartening. However, instead of getting trapped in sad emotions, you must take the right steps to treat your child and provide them with the best life.
