What Is Attention Deficit Disorder?
Attention deficit disorder is a behavioral condition defined by specific subjective criteria in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V). This book describes three types of the disorder:
- Predominantly inattentive
- Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive
- Combined type
Symptoms are behavioral, and the diagnosis is determined by observations in at least two settings. The following symptoms are commonly associated with attention deficit disorder:
- Lack of focus
- Poor concentration
- Low self-esteem
- Easy frustration
- Explosive anger
Males are more frequently diagnosed with attention deficit disorder than females.
What Your Doctor May Tell You About Attention Deficit Disorder
Doctors believe that the cause(s) of attention deficit disorder is unknown. Treatments from an MD will likely address the most serious symptoms, and usually include medication and counseling. Attention deficit disorder can occur at any age. Children and adults with it have variations of symptoms, and thus require different priority in treatments.
Another Way to Think About Attention Deficit Disorder
Attention deficit disorder may or may not be a true disability. Attempts to have it classified for educational purposes have failed. Clearly, whatever is going on affects multiple systems, with different systems affected in each individual, related to his/her bio-individuality. The ability to attend can be related to:
- Visual processing issues
- Auditory processing issues
- Sensory processing issues
- Retained primitive reflexes
- Food sensitivities and intolerances
- A neurotransmitter imbalance such as catecholamines
- Environmental toxins such as lead and pesticides
- Airway issues such as obstructive sleep apnea
Evaluating all these areas, rebalancing the body, and bringing it back to health requires removing the possible triggers from the external and internal environment, and adding necessary nutrients through food and supplementation.
ADHD Healing Checklist
See a Myofunctional Dentist or Orthodontist
Many children with attention deficit disorder have narrow sinus passages that contribute to a lack of a proper amount of oxygen going to the brain. This may initially be caused by a tongue tie which can lead to an overarched and high palate. A large majority of these children snore and may have obstructive sleep apnea.
Myofunctional orthodontics and dentists using palate expanders such as an ALF device can remediate this issue.
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Resources
Articles
Denney, Amy. Can You Resolve the Root Cause of ADHD? The Epoch Times, November 5, 2022.
Books
Bock, Kenneth. Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma, and Allergies: The Groundbreaking Program for the 4-A Disorders. New York, NY. Ballantine Books, 2008.
Brandes, Bonnie. The Symphony of Reflexes: Interventions for Human Development, Autism, ADHD, CP, and Other Neurological Disorders, 2016.
Campbell-McBride, Natasha. Gut and Psychology Syndrome: Natural Treatment for Autism, Dyspraxia, A.D.D., Dyslexia, A.D.H.D., Depression, Schizophrenia, 2010.
Crook, William. Help for the Hyperactive Child: A Practical Guide Offering Parents of ADHD Children Alternatives to Ritalin. Square One, 2007
Giustra-Kozek Jennifer. Healing Without Hurting: Treating ADHD, Apraxia, and Autism Spectrum Disorders Naturally and Effectively Without Harmful Medication. Howard Beach, NY: Changing Lives Press, 2014.
Guyol, G. Who’s Crazy Here?: Steps for Recovery Without Drugs for: ADD/ADHD, Addiction & Eating Disorders, Anxiety & PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Autism. Stonington, CT: Ajoite Pub., 2010.
Lambert, Beth, et al. Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS, and Autoimmune Encephalitis. Answers Publications, 2018.
Mackarness, Richard. These Can Make You Ill: Not All in the Mind. BN Publishing, 2018.
Philpott, William H., et al. Brain Allergies: The Psychonutrient and Magnetic Connections. Los Angeles: Keats Publishing, 2000.