The problem presents as a child who is always on the go, does not settle to anything, has poor concentration, cannot stay still and cannot wait for others. The problems are handicapping, start at an early age and they are present in more than one situation, for example home and school. Sometimes affected children show discipline problems, underachievement at school, poor sleep, temper tantrums, unpopularity, and accident-proneness. However, all these can have other causes too. There are several causes.
Twin studies indicate a strong genetic contribution.
Environmental causes include brain damage, intolerance to certain foods, hearing impairment, toxic and infective agents during pregnancy, and psychological stress. There are some specific treatments, including stimulant medication, behaviour therapy and dietary exclusion approaches in selected cases. There is an inherited contribution. The significance in individual cases is not yet known. The ADHD National Alliance is a project of Contact a Family.