The primary features of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder include inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior.   ADHD symptoms start before age 12, and in some children, they're noticeable as early as 3 years of age.   ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe.

 

There are three subtypes of ADHD:

Predominantly inattentive. The majority of symptoms fall under inattention.

Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive. The majority of symptoms are hyperactive and impulsive.

Combined. The most common type in the U.S., this is a mix of inattentive symptoms and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

While the exact cause of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is not clear, research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include:

Genetics. ADHD can run in families, and studies indicate that genes may play a role.

Environment. Certain environmental factors, such as lead exposure, may increase risk.  

Risk factors for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder may include:

Blood relatives, such as a parent or sibling, with ADHD or another mental health disorder

Exposure to environmental toxins — such as lead, found mainly in paint and pipes in older buildings

Maternal drug use, alcohol use or smoking during pregnancy

Premature birth

Although sugar was thought to have been debunked as suspect in causing hyperactivity.  However, can be easily refuted, when  all carbohydrates are taken into consideration, not just sugar.  The body can do only one of two things either burn off the sugar or store it as fat.  Therefore for a child who has a high carbohydrate intake, without movement, as typical in a classroom environment or at home in front of the computer of TV, childhood obsety and innattention is the outcome.   There is no question, that a high intake of sugar, in a prediabetic  or diabetic child or adult will cause inattention, as the blood sugar levels become unstable.

Many issues in childhood can lead to difficulty sustaining attention, but that's not the same as ADHD.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can make life difficult for children.

Children with ADHD:

Often struggle in the classroom, which can lead to academic failure and judgment by other children and adults

Tend to have more accidents and injuries of all kinds than do children who don't have ADHD

Tend to have poor self-esteem

Are more likely to have trouble interacting with and being accepted by peers and adults

Are at increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse and other delinquent behavior