What Causes ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which can be diagnosed in children, youths, and adults. Defined by specific behavioural manifestations, which include a lack of ability to maintain focus for periods, impulsive behaviour as well as hyperactivity, the disorder has been observed to interfere with the ability to cope with daily activities, engage in social interactions, or meet performance demands in school or at the workplace.
In recent decades, people have become more attentive to the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and, as a result, doctors have been attempting to investigate the roots of the disorder more seriously.
There has always been debate on what leads to ADHD, and as much as researchers have looked for a clear answer, the truth is that it cannot be pinpointed to one cause. ADHD causes, however, seem to stem from these differences of structure and function, including genetic make-up, environmental and even physiological conditions.
This article will discuss the different ADHD causes in order to give a glimpse of what research has found out about this disorder.
Known Factors Associated with Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD is a polygenic disorder, which implies that one single cause of the disorder cannot be identified because it has various basic causes which can combine from one person to another. Knowing these causes goes a long way in both prevention and aid in managing ADHD; it will go a long way in assisting families, teachers, and doctors attending to these individuals. This is a list of ADHD causes, and risk factors that the researchers acknowledge are currently in use.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Causes According to Research:
Psychologists have also been occupied with examining the aetiology of ADHD, highlighting the fact that this is a bio-psychosocial disorder. The following areas are considered primary contributors to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder:
Brain Anatomy and Function
Indeed, brain anatomy and function have been the most explored fields in the research for the causes of ADHD. A number of MRI investigations appeared to show that ADHD is associated with some minor structural variation in some of the brain structures, particularly the prefrontal cortex, the basal ganglia, and the cerebellum. These areas are locomotive involved in inhibitory controls on attention, impulsive activities, and motor control–activities that are severely affected in ADHD individuals.
For instance, the prefrontal brain region has been linked with activities like understanding, planning and controlling impulses. This area is usually a little less active in people with ADHD, which may be why these folks struggle with maintaining concentration and managing their emotions and behaviours.
Dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters, very pertinent in concern to attention and reward mechanisms, are nearly always impaired in ADHD cases. Specifically, they both linked lower dopamine levels with motivation issues and problems with attention deficit.
Genetics and Heredity
Another well-documented aspect of ADHD is its genetic basis. ADHD genetic inheritance suggests that the disorder is highly heritable. Studies indicate that children with ADHD are more likely to have close relatives, such as parents or siblings, who also have the condition. Researchers have pinpointed specific genes associated with brain development and dopamine regulation, crucial in managing behaviour and impulse control.
Genetic studies have also found that certain gene variations are more common in individuals with ADHD. These genes affect the production and transport of dopamine, further supporting the theory that ADHD genetic predisposition is linked to the disorder's symptoms. Despite this genetic link, however, it is not inevitable that a child will develop ADHD if a parent has it, as environmental factors also play a role in ADHD causes and risk factors.
Head Injuries
Although not so frequently, head injuries are known to cause situation which looks like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Tiny shock to the head particularly to the frontal lobe area is likely to cause negligence, uncontrollable conduct which gives symptoms similar to that of ADHD. However, they wanted to state that head trauma by itself can bring about ADHD is not correct since assignment of ADHD mostly occurs in about 75% of such cases as a result of head trauma. However, it tends to worsen the symptoms in those with a predisposition to the disorder.
Freuently head injuries that occur during childhood can bring impulsivity, poor attention, and other behavioural problems with them if they have affected the frontal lobes of the brain. However, such cases are rare in a pool of people who have been diagnosed of ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. These head injuries are characteristic in ADHD risk factors linked to other health impacts that tamper with the brain’s performance and growth.
Premature Birth
Maternal early childbirth has been noted to be another risky factor in ADHD. Some research has established that kids who are born preterm are at a higher risk of contracting ADHD; these are kids who are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preterm babies suffer from immature brains and, adding the contributory factors like low birth weight or prolonged periods on oxygen services, makes things worse as far as neurological advancement is concerned.
These conditions can affect the brain’s ability to pay attention or control impulses in adult’s hence making premature birth an ADHD causal factor. But one has to be careful here, to note that not all children born premature have ADHD. However, a number of external factors such as the postnatal conditions and genetic constitution determine the likelihood of the disorder.
Prenatal Effects of Alcohol and Smoking
The prenatal setting greatly influences fetal development and maternal exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy is one of the ADHD contributing factors. A study has also revealed that when a woman takes substance such as tobacco or alcohol during pregnancy, her child’s chances of having this disorder rise. Nicotine and alcohol easily pass through the placenta and damage fetal brain by controlling behaviours.
Smoking, in particular, reduces oxygen flow to the fetus, potentially leading to low birth weight and impacting neurological development. Alcohol exposure can cause a range of developmental issues, including behavioural disorders like ADHD. For this reason, maternal health and lifestyle choices are considered among the critical ADHD causes and risk factors.
Environmental Factors and Toxins
Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins like lead have also been associated with the increased risk of ADHD. Lead exposure, often found in old paint, contaminated soil, and certain household products, has been linked to behavioural and cognitive issues. While exposure to environmental toxins does not directly cause ADHD, it can exacerbate symptoms or trigger ADHD in children who are genetically predisposed to it.
Other environmental pollutants, such as heavy metals and certain chemicals, are still being researched for their potential impact on ADHD. The presence of these environmental ADHD risk factors can affect neurological development, which may increase the likelihood of ADHD symptoms.
Causes of ADHD in Adults
ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, but it can persist into adulthood or even go undetected for years. Causes of ADHD in adults are generally similar to those in children, with genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors playing a role. However, in adults, ADHD symptoms may be triggered or exacerbated by lifestyle choices, stress, or trauma.
While symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness may be managed through coping strategies, ADHD can still significantly impact an adult's daily life. Adults with undiagnosed ADHD may struggle with maintaining relationships, achieving career goals, or managing household responsibilities.
Understanding what causes ADHD in adults can provide insights into effective treatment options and help adults manage their symptoms more effectively.
What are the ADHD Risk Factors?
In addition to the direct causes, several ADHD causes, and risk factors can contribute to an individual's likelihood of developing ADHD. Recognising these risk factors can aid in early identification and intervention.
- Family History: Since ADHD is heritable, individuals with a family history of ADHD are at an increased risk of developing the condition.
- Environmental Toxins: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead, increases the likelihood of ADHD symptoms.
- Maternal Health and Behavior: Poor maternal health and behaviours during pregnancy, including smoking, alcohol use, and stress, can increase ADHD risk.
- Premature Birth: Premature birth and related complications can lead to developmental issues that increase ADHD risk.
- Other Co-existing Psychological Disorders: Individuals with anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities are at a higher risk of having ADHD.
Most Common Myths About Causes of ADHD (Hyperactivity Disorder)
Misunderstandings or myths about ADHD's causes are common, leading to myths and misinformation. Below, we'll debunk some of the most persistent myths:
- "Poor Parenting Causes ADHD": Parenting style does not cause ADHD. While parenting can influence symptom management, it does not create the disorder.
- "Eating Sugar Causes ADHD": High sugar intake can lead to temporary hyperactivity in some children, but it does not cause ADHD.
- "ADHD Isn't Real": ADHD is a scientifically recognised neurodevelopmental disorder with genetic and biological components.
- "Children with ADHD Will Eventually Outgrow It": Although some symptoms may lessen, many individuals continue to experience ADHD symptoms into adulthood.
Why Are So Many Kids Diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)?
One reason for the increase in ADHD diagnoses in recent decades is the growing awareness and improved diagnostic methods. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as increased screen time, reduced physical activity, and overstimulating environments, may exacerbate symptoms in children predisposed to ADHD. Schools, teachers, and parents are also more aware of ADHD, leading to quicker identification and intervention.
How Can Dr Batra's® Help Diagnose ADHD?
Dr Batra's® offers a holistic approach to diagnosing and managing ADHD. Their team conducts comprehensive assessments, including psychological evaluations and behavioural screenings, to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Dr Batra's® provides a nuanced understanding of each individual's unique symptoms by evaluating genetics, lifestyle, and environmental influences.
Furthermore, Dr Batra's® offers homeopathic treatments for ADHD. Homeopathy takes a natural, individualised approach to treatment, focusing on reducing symptoms without the side effects commonly associated with pharmaceutical drugs. Homeopathic remedies are tailored to each person's needs, making them an attractive option for individuals and parents seeking alternative ADHD management options.
Conclusion
Understanding attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is essential for developing effective interventions and support systems for individuals with ADHD. With its roots in genetic, biological, and environmental factors, ADHD is a complex disorder that requires a multifaceted approach to diagnosis.
