Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects approximately 6.1 million children in the United States. However, there is another lesser-known disorder that has similar symptoms and can often be confused with ADHD – it is called AD/HD, which stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder with Deficits of Attention, Motor Control and Perception (ADRDs).
ADRDs is a complex disorder that includes symptoms of both ADHD and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). It is estimated that around 5% of children diagnosed with ADHD may also have ADRDs, but due to lack of awareness and proper diagnosis, this number could potentially be higher.
So what exactly is ADRDs and how is it different from ADHD?
ADHD is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Children with ADHD may have a hard time focusing on tasks, have difficulty sitting still, and act impulsively without thinking of the consequences. On the other hand, ADRDs includes all of these symptoms but also encompasses difficulties with motor coordination and perception.
Children with ADRDs may have trouble with fine and gross motor skills, such as tying shoelaces or playing sports. They may have difficulty with spatial awareness and struggle with tasks that require them to interpret visual information accurately. This can affect their ability to navigate through spaces or read maps.
These difficulties can be frustrating and challenging for children with ADRDs, as they may struggle with everyday tasks that come easily to their peers. They may feel self-conscious and develop low self-esteem as a result.
It is important to note that ADRDs is not just limited to children. Adults can also have this disorder, and it can significantly impact their daily life. In fact, many adults with ADRDs may have gone undiagnosed during childhood, as the disorder was not widely recognized until recently.
The exact cause of ADRDs is still unknown, but researchers believe that it could be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Studies have shown that children with ADRDs have similar brain abnormalities as those with ADHD, which suggests a possible genetic link between the two disorders.
So how is ADRDs diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosing ADRDs can be challenging as there is no specific test to confirm its presence. Instead, healthcare professionals rely on a comprehensive evaluation that includes a thorough physical and neurological examination, along with interviews with the child and their parents or caregivers.
If a child is diagnosed with ADRDs, treatment options are similar to those for ADHD. It may include a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and accommodations at school to help the child cope with their difficulties. Occupational therapy may also be recommended to help improve motor skills and perception abilities.
It is important to note that no two individuals with ADRDs will have the same symptoms or experiences. Therefore, treatment plans should be tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, teachers, and parents can significantly improve the treatment outcomes for children with ADRDs.
Furthermore, early intervention is crucial in managing ADRDs. The earlier it is diagnosed and treated, the better chance a child has of developing coping strategies and achieving success in their academic and personal lives.
In conclusion, ADRDs is a complex disorder that combines symptoms of both ADHD and DCD. It affects a child’s ability to pay attention, control their impulses, and coordinate their movements. It can significantly impact their daily life and self-esteem. With proper diagnosis and treatment, children with ADRDs can learn to manage their difficulties and thrive in all aspects of life. It is important to raise awareness about this disorder and provide support for individuals with ADRDs to help them reach their full potential.
