Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is usually diagnosed in children aged 4 to 7, but it continues to cause challenges throughout adulthood for one-third of them. Maria Hoffman-Guardia, MD, and Amanda Vela, MD, at Pediatric Associates at Ridge offer comprehensive care for ADHD, including evaluations, medical care, and holistic treatments that support your child’s ability to manage their ADHD challenges. Don’t wait to seek help for difficult behaviors. Call the office in McAllen, Texas, or connect online to request an appointment.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that begins in childhood (developmental) and occurs because of changes in brain growth (neurological). The brain changes affect areas responsible for regulating attention, activity, and impulsivity.
All children occasionally become hyperactive or have a hard time paying attention. But ADHD symptoms occur regularly and are noticeably severe, causing problems in school, at home, and when socializing.
Your child may have one of three types of ADHD. Their symptoms depend on whether they have inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, or combined ADHD:
Children with inattentive ADHD have one or more of the following symptoms:
Losing or misplacing important items is a classic symptom of inattentive ADHD. For example, children often can’t find their homework or forget their homework assignments.
Children with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD exhibit symptoms such as:
ADHD often affects a skill called emotional regulation. As a result, many children with ADHD have emotional outbursts that are disproportionate to the actual situation.
Children with combined ADHD have some inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
Children with moderate to severe ADHD typically take medications that balance their brain chemicals, improve attention, and reduce hyperactivity. Though stimulant medications are the gold standard, your provider at Pediatric Associates at Ridge can recommend non-stimulant options.
Most children also benefit from behavioral therapy that teaches skills affected by ADHD. For example, your child may learn to control emotional outbursts, improve their ability to socialize, or develop organizational skills.
Pediatric Associates at Ridge also specializes in holistic care. They may recommend strategies parents can use at home to help their child manage emotional and behavioral challenges. Or they may suggest dietary changes that boost brain function and prevent hyperactivity.
With early, consistent treatment, children can learn to manage ADHD. Don’t wait to call the Pediatric Associates at Ridge or use the online booking feature to request an appointment.