If your child has been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), your pediatrician will want to screen your child for other possible conditions that commonly coexist with ADHD. Many children with ADHD have at least one coexisting condition. This blog shares information on some of the typical coexisting conditions that kids might have if they have been diagnosed with ADHD.
Learning Disabilities:
ADHD is not considered a learning disability even though it can make it challenging to perform well in academics or concentrate in school or at work. But children with ADHD may have learning disabilities. These can include dyslexia (difficulty in how the brain processes written and spoken language), dysgraphia (difficulty for the hand to write or type on a keyboard), and dyscalculia (difficulty understanding and applying mathematical concepts). Learning disabilities are diagnosed through evaluations, including academic achievement and IQ tests. Treatment involves educational interventions and supportive therapy.
Mental Health Conditions:
Many kids with ADHD suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. Those with a family history of these mental health conditions are at a higher risk. If left untreated, these conditions can cause symptoms, such as panic attacks, difficulty focusing in school, difficulty maintaining relationships, loss of interest in activities, etc. Children with depression, anxiety, or a mood disorder are also at risk for suicide. Therefore, treatment is essential. Options for treatment include therapy and medication, and typically, a combination of the two is needed for effective results.
Language Disorders:
Language disorders can show up in kids with ADHD. This disorder causes challenges in how children use language. Kids might have a difficult time with reading comprehension and receptive skills that make it hard for them to understand when words are spoken to them. They might also have difficulty composing sentences, organizing paragraphs, spelling, and using correct grammar. Applying multi-sensory techniques in teaching can help children with language disorders process information more easily and classroom modifications and specialized instruction are other techniques that are helpful.
Motor Skills Disorder:
Gross motor and fine motor developmental delays can involve development delays in movement or posture that make coordination difficult, which may make your child seem clumsy or awkward in their movement and have a hard time in physical education or playing sports. They may be able to perform physical activities at the same level as peers in their age group. For example, a preschooler might not be able to button their buttons. If your child is diagnosed with motor skills disorder, they may get referred to a pediatric occupational therapist or physical therapist for individualized therapy. Certain coordination and motor development activities can also improve skills. Significant delays may also involve a referral to a Neurologist.
Oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder:
Oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder occurs when children have a hard time controlling their temper, are purposefully defiant, or engage in hostile behaviors. This can lead to risks of getting suspended or expelled from school, substance abuse, or getting in trouble with the law. For children with this type of disorder, behavioral therapy is usually recommended. Through behavioral therapy, children can learn effective ways to manage and control their emotions and behaviors, as well as develop discipline.
ADHD and other coexisting conditions can be hard for kids to cope with and manage. Our pediatricians are here to ensure that your child gets the right type of treatment plan and resources for the best outcomes. If you need any support or have questions about screening and evaluations, contact our office.