Quite often we get calls at our naturopathic clinic in Toronto from concerned parents who are interested in getting their kids or themselves diagnosed for hyperactivity or attention deficit disorder. Majority of the times, your child’s teacher may suggest psychological assessments to diagnose either. Here are some of the symptoms that you would look out for in order to confirm diagnosis of attention deficit or hyperactivity.
Some of the symptoms of attention deficit disorder include and are not limited to:
- Lack of attention to details or makes careless mistakes
- Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities for more that 15 – 20 minutes at a time
- Seems to avoid contact when spoken to
- Unable to follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace and mind often wanders due to lack of attention.
- Difficulty with organizing tasks and activities
- Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in any tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Misplaces necessary for tasks or activities often
- Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
- Is very forgetful in daily activities
Some of the symptoms of hyperactivity include:
- Constantly fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat with restless energy
- Unable to sit in one spot when required to.
- Runs or climbs excessively in inappropriate situations (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness) very often embarrassing parents.
- Extremely needy and has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
- Endless energy, that often gets worse after eating certain foods, especially those with coloring, additives and dyes
- Talks excessively
- Blurts out answers before questions are completed
- Has difficulty awaiting turn
- Interrupts or intrudes on others
- Quite often very smart but very impatient.
Quite often there are combined types as well where the child or adult exhibits symptoms of both attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity. At our naturopathic clinic, we initially take a look at the symptoms of the client, along with that, we test for food allergies / sensitivities, as these affect mood and behaviour, as well as heavy metal tests. We also offer extensive nutritional testing for mineral and nutrient deficiencies that could affect behavior.
Treatment options for hyperactivity and attention deficit would include dietary modifications and natural supplements. Psychological counseling is recommended if required.
If you need more information or would like to schedule an appointment to see our naturopathic doctor, please call us at 416 913 4325.
By: Sushma Shah, Naturopathic Doctor, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.