Worried parents often think that watching too much TV, bad schooling or a poor diet may well be the causes of ADHD and they sometimes blame themselves. But the lastest research has identified genetic causes and also biological causes which cause chemical imbalance in the child's brain as the main culprits.
Statistics show that there is a strong hereditary link in ADHD. The close relatives of families with ADHD are 25% more likely to suffer from the condition. The figures for the general popluation on the other hand are much lower - a mere 5%.
The British Food Agency has published its findings in the Lancet and its research points the finger at certain food colourings and additives (E102, E104 and E110) which is found in fiizy drinks and snacks which are normally eaten by children. Their research showed that these foods certainly increased the levels of hyperactivity in the children they were studying.
The neurotransmitters which help the brain's nerve cells communicate with each other may well be affected by a chemical imbalance and thereby not function at maximum capacity. When this happens, the child with ADHD will show impulsiveness, lack of attention and concentration.
Should warnings be put on certain food packaging? Is it fair to have kids eating things which are different from their peers and therefore causing problems which will have a social impact . This research into additives in kids' food is at the beginning and experts have stressed that the whole question needs further research and exploration.
What drugs are used and how safe are they ? The most common drugs are :- Adderall, Concerta and Ritalin (stimulants). A popular non-stimulant drug is :- Strattera.
What side effects are reported in children taking these drugs? Recently there has been a lot of attention in the press about this and there are concerns that children who already might have heart condition need to be monitored carefully. The drug called Adderall was withdrawn from the Canadian market because of this risk. Whatever drug is taken, children's heart conditon, blood pressure and blood tests need to be carried out on a regular basis.
How can a parent decide what is best? They may well want to consider alternative treatments. Even small changes in diet, exercise and daily routine can help. Herbal and homeopathic remedies can also be considered. These act by restoring the chemical imbalance of the child's nervous system. There are no side effects or drowsiness and they have been shown to be a valid alternative because they can restore wellness and harmony.