Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children is a common condition affecting boys three times more often than girls. A hyperactive child requires patience and support from parents, especially as the hyperactivity manifests itself later in life with behaviour, communication and learning problems. As hyperactivity is a common occurrence, it is useful to know some tips on how to deal with your child’s hyperactivity.
Symptoms of hyperactivity in the child
There are different degrees of hyperactivity. Babies in infancy do not usually present all the symptoms of hyperactivity, but your baby may be hyperactive if he has colic, is difficult to feed, cries and screams a lot despite being fed and shown tenderness, and if he hits his head and bursts out crying because of this. He may also drool frequently, be very thirsty and sleep very little. Some hyperactive children sleep only 3-4 hours a day.
Some parents know that their baby is hyperactive already in the first few weeks of his or her life, and even before birth if the baby kicks frequently while in the mother’s belly. Many hyperactive babies hate being carried, cuddled and rocked, unlike other babies who find these activities calming. If your baby’s arms and legs stiffen or he bends backwards when you try to hold or feed him, this could be a sign of hyperactivity. On the other hand, however, many babies bend when they are sleepy.
Causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
Research shows that hyperactivity is often caused by chemical food additives. Infants come into contact with these through breast milk. The biggest culprits are preservatives, colourings and flavourings. If parents ignore the problem of hyperactivity, the child may become clumsy over time, bump into objects and have attention deficits. This can negatively affect the child’s social development, as hyperactive children are often aggressive and restless. Attention deficit hyperactivity in children can also take a toll on learning and affect a child’s physical development. Physical complaints associated with hyperactivity include long-term sleep problems, allergies, asthma, lack of appetite, headaches and stomach aches.
Complications of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
ADHD symptoms usually make it difficult to succeed at school, work or socially. People with hyperactivity face incomprehension, rejection and are constantly confronted with failure. It is difficult to maintain high self-esteem in such circumstances. Negative information about themselves becomes a daily occurrence. Research shows that children with ADHD, to a greater extent than their peers, are at risk of experiencing mental disorders and other health problems, both in childhood and in adult life. The risk of complications is high even in adults who have grown up with ADHD.
Complications of ADHD syndrome include:
- low self-esteem,
- depression,
- anxiety disorders,
- greater risk of suicide,
- addiction to psychoactive substances (cigarettes, alcohol, drugs),
- antisocial personality,
- conflicts with peers and adults,
- conflicts with the law,
- financial problems,
- injuries,
- obesity,
- under-education in relation to intellectual abilities.
ADHD can be grown out of, complications cannot, so prevention is very important.
What should you do if your child is hyperactive?
If you suspect that your child’s hyperactivity is related to their diet, avoid foods with preservatives. Between the fourth and sixth month of a baby fed with modified milk (and from the sixth month of a breastfed baby), start introducing new products one by one so that you can observe any allergic reactions. Sometimes babies have an allergy to colourings in their food, which manifests itself in a similar way to hyperactivity. Pay attention to when your child becomes hyperactive and what he or she has eaten before. Discuss this with your paediatrician. Also, limit your child’s sugar intake. Some infants are sensitive to sugar, which makes them visibly agitated.
How to calm a hyperactive child?
- Make sure your child gets enough sleep. A tired baby can become hyperactive. Most older babies sleep for about 12 hours at night and 2-3 hours during the day.
- Give your baby a warm bath. Use a lavender soap designed for your baby’s sensitive skin. Let your baby play in the water, this will help him/her relax and calm down.
- Sing calm songs to your baby in a quiet voice.
- Take your baby for a long walk in the pushchair.
- Sit with your baby in a rocking chair. If he or she starts to become sleepy, put him or her in the cradle for a nap.
A baby’s hyperactivity is a challenge for parents. An infant can be hyperactive for many reasons, such as tiredness, over-stimulation and the need for rest. His or the breastfeeding mother’s diet may also be to blame. Fortunately, there are several ways to deal with this problem.
Source
- https://portal.abczdrowie.pl/nadpobudliwosc-u-dziecka
