Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects behavior. People with ADHD can be overactive and have short attention spans. ADHD interferes with how you function in your day-to-day activities at work, school, or at home. ADHD may also cause you to have problems getting along with other people. The exact cause of ADHD is not known.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
- Stimulants: This medicine helps you pay attention, concentrate better, and manage your energy.
- Antidepressants: This medicine helps decrease or prevent the symptoms of anxiety or depression. It can also be used to treat other behavior problems.
- Take your medicine as directed. Call your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
- Learn to manage stress: Stress may make your ADHD worse. Ask about ways to calm your body and mind. These may include deep breathing, muscle relaxation, music, and biofeedback. Talk to someone about things that upset you.
- Learn more about ADHD: The more you know about ADHD, the better you will be able to help yourself. Read books, work with your therapist, and find the support of other people with ADHD.
- Do not drink alcohol: Alcohol may make your symptoms worse. Tell your healthcare provider if you drink alcohol.
For more information:
- Attention Deficit Disorder Association
PO Box 7557
Wilmington , DE 19803-9997
Phone: 1- 800 - 939-1019
Web Address: http://www.add.org/
- Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder
8181 Professional Place, Suite 150
Landover , MD 20785
Phone: 1- 800 - 233-4050
Web Address: http://www.chadd.org
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You feel you cannot cope at home, work, or school.
- You have new symptoms since the last time you visited your healthcare provider.
- Your symptoms are getting worse.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Seek care immediately or call 911 if:
- You have a convulsion.
- You have trouble breathing, chest pains, or a fast heartbeat.
- You feel like hurting yourself or someone else.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.