Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Alternate Names : ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a disorder
in which an individual consistently shows certain behaviors over time. The
three categories for these behaviors are inattention, hyperactivity, and
impulsivity.
What is going on in the body?
In people who have ADHD, the areas of the brain that control
attention use less glucose than the brains of other people. This indicates that
the areas are less active. The lower activity level seems to cause inattention.
No one knows for sure why these brain areas are less active.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
No one knows the exact cause of ADHD. Most experts believe that
the following factors may play a role in causing ADHD:
environmental toxins, such as
lead
genetics
smoking or
alcohol use by the
mother during pregnancy
use of illegal drugs, such as
cocaine, by the mother during pregnancy
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