Does My Child Really Have ADD or ADHD?

If you are a parent, you know that sometimes, kids will just be, well, kids. Other times, signs of potential developmental disorders may be appearing as what others will claim is just typical child behavior. If your child falls into that second category, there are a few ways to check if they are suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or are experiencing a different problem altogether.

Sleep deprivation causes similar symptoms to ADHD

 

ADHD is an umbrella term for a disorder that also includes older diagnoses of ADD. Now commonly referred to simply as ADHD, this is characterized by an inability to focus, pay attention, sit still and play quietly. Children who have ADHD may also talk loudly, interrupt frequently or have trouble completing assigned tasks (either at home or school).


As there are many factors that can contribute to an ADHD diagnosis in North Carolina (and there is no end-all-be-all ADHD test), it is important to note that other circumstances can also cause some of those characteristics — including sleep deprivation, or not getting enough sleep.


Children who have not slept as much as they should can experience some of the same symptoms that are attributed to ADHD, including:


  • Temper tantrums
  • Over-activity
  • Hyperactivity
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Excessive communication

Making Sure Your Child Gets a Good Night’s Sleep with

My CPAP Club


Toddlers should get 12 hours of sleep per day, while school-age children should get 10 to 11 hours of sleep. If your child is having trouble sleeping, staying asleep or waking up feeling rested, sleep patterns may be to blame –– not ADHD. To learn more about how you or your child can establish healthy sleep patterns, turn to My CPAP Club in North Carolina. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-272-7050.
                    

Allison Wrightenberry
Allison Wrightenberry

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