ADHD
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Sierra Pacific Pediatric Associates
Pediatricians located in Fontana, CA & Eastvale, CA
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, can impact a child’s life in many ways. This disorder can interfere with learning, performance at school, and relationships. If you think your child may have ADHD, the physicians at Sierra Pacific Pediatric Associates can confirm the diagnosis and offer treatment options. Please contact the office in Fontana or Eastvale, California, to schedule an appointment for ADHD evaluation and treatment.
ADHD Q & A
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a chronic condition that affects millions of children throughout the United States. Children with this disorder experience a combination of problems related to their behavior and ability to pay attention.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD include:
- Forgetting to do certain activities
- Being distracted easily
- Avoiding activities that require focused mental effort
- Making careless mistakes
- Being unable to sit still
- Having trouble waiting for a turn
How do doctors diagnose ADHD?
In most cases, the physicians at Sierra Pacific Pediatric Associates won’t diagnose ADHD until your child has had symptoms for at least six months. To diagnose this disorder, your child’s doctor will need information from you, your child, their teacher, and other people in your child’s life. Your child’s doctor will also perform a medical exam to rule out other possible causes of your child’s symptoms.
What ADHD treatments are available?
Children with ADHD may benefit from certain medications, such as psychostimulants. However, these may cause side effects and other health risks, so medications should be given only under the supervision of your child’s doctor.
In addition to medication, children with ADHD may also benefit from behavior therapy, family therapy, psychotherapy, parenting skills, and social skills training. Your child’s doctor will discuss the benefits of each of these treatment options with you so you can develop a customized treatment plan that works for your child.
Is ADHD curable?
There isn’t a known cure for ADHD. Some patients experience symptoms throughout their childhood and even into adulthood while other children get better as they age. The best way to ensure that your child has the greatest possible quality of life is ongoing treatment.
When should parents make an appointment for an evaluation?
Some of the symptoms of ADHD are similar to normal behavior in children. However, if your child’s symptoms are affecting their performance at school or causing behavioral concerns, you may need to make an appointment. If you aren’t sure whether an evaluation is necessary, please contact the Sierra Pacific Pediatric Associates office for guidance.
