ADHD and Acupuncture

Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a condition that is more commonly found today. This is a mental disorder that makes a child hyperactive. It is difficult for those with ADHD to pay attention in the class or to read a text book. It is found to be more common in boys and is usually diagnosed when they are very young and start their school life. As they grow older, those suffering from this condition will have problems in setting goals and being organized and even managing time. This is a condition that does not have a cure but it can be treated with medication and with therapy. Many specialists suggest acupuncture for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) because acupuncture can strengthen the parasympathetic nervous system.

Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

It is important to diagnose the condition as early as possible. The earlier therapy is started, the better the prognosis is. There are many signs that one should look for. The most common one is the difficulty to pay attention. People with ADHD find it difficult to follow instructions or complete any task set for them. They are not organized and tend to lose things and forget even activities that they do every day. They are day dreamers and need to be busy all the time. They are very fidgety and restless and cannot sit quietly in a place.

Problems that could arise if not treated

If left untreated or not treated early, ADHD could cause problems in the patient’s adult life too. Those suffering from this disorder will have low self-esteem and problems in inter-personal relationship and problems at work. They are frequently bothered by anxiety, depression, mood swings, frustration and anger issues. They tend to be less organized, impulsive, and procrastinative. Substance abuse is also common among people suffering from ADHD.

Causes and Treatment of ADHD

Some of the causes of ADHD could be chemical imbalance or heredity or even hormone changes in the brain. Brain injury could also be the cause. When the baby is in the womb, it is important for the mother to avoid alcohol, certain medications and tobacco. Good nutrition is also important for the normal development of the baby’s brain. There are medicines that can help to control impulsive and hyperactive behavior as well as to increase the attention span. Certain therapies, such as counseling, social skill training, special education as well as behavior modification, can help change the behavior of the patients. Acupuncture can also help people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to a great extent.

Acupuncture helps balance the hormones of children who are diagnosed with ADHD, such that the brain can be calm down and focus on certain topics. Especially for teenagers, the high level of testosterone can stimulate certain brain areas and the frontal lobe cannot function normally. Acupuncture help improve the kidney and liver function, so the metabolites of the testosterone can be discharged instead of circulating in the body, leading to hyperactivity and even acne. Physical exercise can also help kids with ADHD to release their extra energy, so the nervous system will be more balanced.