Common ADHD symptoms for children often include hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and inattention. Children with ADHD struggle to stay focused, which can affect their performance in school. Symptoms for ADHD can be identified at an early age (not normally before kindergarten) and are often discovered by the child's parents or their teachers. 

It is very important to identify ADHD early because it can affect a child's thinking, understanding and remembering abilities. Other areas that can be affected are behavioral, emotional and social well-being. There may also be evidence of low self-esteem and troubled relationships.

Common signs teachers can look for are when children lose focus in school, do not appear to be paying attention and their grades fall. Particularly if they were a good student previously. Parents can also look for an inability to focus at home as well as an increasing impulsive behavior. Children may not be able to complete tasks, or they frequently switch tasks before finishing them. When they are playing, they are not waiting for their turns and may routinely display hyperactivity. They are always on the go. 

1/3rd of the patients who have ADHD will also have pre-existing conditions that may include learning disabilities, difficulty understanding what they are being taught and may show behavioral problems like ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder), which is defined by chronic aggression, purposely irritates others and has frequent outbursts. Socially, they may not be well adapted with other children. Anxiety is also another common symptom, however, anxiety is difficult to identify because it can be difficult to see and children often won't tell you. Children suffering from ADHD may also show signs of mood disorders causing them to feel sad or irritable, which can interfere with normal, everyday life. 

One of the most important signs is when parents notice they are not getting enough sleep. Studies have shown if you can identify the sleep problem and treat it, other problems diminish. "Sleep is not something I treat. I normally refer patients with sleep problems to a sleep specialist," says Dr. Vishwas. 

Some schools have testing protocols to help determine ADHD and other health risks, but most often teachers and parents are the first to recognize concerns. At this stage, children may be directed to their primary care provider, (pediatrician or family physician). It is up to the primary care provider to decide if a referral to a trained child neurologist is needed.

Treatment normally involves medications and behavioral interventions from a specialist. These treatment options won't cure ADHD, but it can help diminish symptoms and provide successful strategies that can be helpful throughout adult life.

Dr. Vishwas is a certified Child Neurologist with Union Health.