Andrew Jung, M.D., ADD/ADHD & Pediatrics, Dreyer Medical Clinic

Approximately 5 to 8% of school-aged children suffer from ADHD.  Despite an increase in awareness over the past few years, many children with ADHD are undiagnosed, and as a result may struggle with school and family relationships.

However, with a proper diagnosis and the right course of treatment, any child can meet and overcome the challenges associated with ADHD.

According to the Diagnostic-Statistics Manual for Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), there are three classifications of ADHD:

1.    ADHD - Combined type: This is the most common classification of ADHD, and accounts for 60% of all diagnosed cases.  It is seen commonly in younger school-aged children, more often in boys than girls, who exhibit symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

2.    ADHD - Inattentive type: This classification predominantly affects older children, usually middle and high-schoolers.  It is more commonly seen in girls than boys, and those diagnosed will exhibit symptoms of inattention but not hyperactivity-impulsivity.

3.    ADHD - Hyperactive-Impulsive type: This is the least-commonly diagnosed classification.  These children exhibit symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity but not inattention.

Rating scales which address inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity may often be used in clarifying or confirming the diagnosis.

Parent and teacher rating scales can also help determine if a child has a co-existing learning disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorder such as generalized anxiety, and/or social skills problems.   These co-existing conditions may require further intervention by social workers, counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists.

Properly treating ADHD includes appropriate educational intervention, behavioral management, counseling, and medication.  Studies in children have shown that medication management is more effective than behavioral management in reducing the core symptoms of ADHD.  However, not all parents are open to subjecting their children to different types of medications, especially at an early age.

Over half of all children diagnosed with ADHD continue to exhibit signs and symptoms of the disorder into adulthood.  A greater awareness of the condition may help these patients receive a timely diagnosis and successful long-term multi-disciplinary management.

Dr. Andrew Jung sees ADD/ADHD patients up to 20 years of age at Dreyer’s West Aurora location.   To schedule an appointment, please call 630-859-6752.