What it is
It is more often diagnosed in boys, while girls are more likely to have the inattentive type and to be missed.
Support usually starts with parent training and help at school. Medicine may be offered to children from about age 5 when symptoms remain significant.
Common signs
- Being easily distracted and not finishing tasks
- Constant fidgeting, difficulty staying seated
- Talking excessively, interrupting, difficulty waiting a turn
- Acting without thinking about danger
How it is usually diagnosed
- A specialist assessment by a paediatrician or child psychiatrist
- Information from parents and teachers, usually with questionnaires
- Checks of growth, heart rate and blood pressure before medicine
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- The assessment report and any school reports
- Educational support plans
- Height, weight and blood pressure measurements during treatment
- A record of medicines and how your child responded
Questions to ask your doctor
- What help can the school give?
- What are the pros and cons of medicine for my child?
- How will growth and sleep be monitored?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Chest pain, fainting or a very fast heartbeat after starting a medicine
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.