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Navigating ADHD: Understanding Symptoms and Solutions

Navigating ADHD: Understanding Symptoms and Solutions

What is ADHD? ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a developmental condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate attention and control impulses. What are the Main Signs of ADHD? The signs of ADHD can vary widely from child to child, but they are generally categorized into three main groups: Inattention: Difficulty concentrating, easily distracted, and making careless mistakes. Common signs include: Losing things frequently Forgetfulness Trouble completing tasks Getting easily distracted Making careless mistakes Not seeming to listen Impulsivity: Acting without thinking and interrupting others. Common signs include: Fidgeting Squirming Difficulty sitting still for quiet tasks Running or climbing at inappropriate times Talking excessively or interrupting others Hyperactivity: Excessive energy and difficulty remaining still. Common signs include: Difficulty falling asleep Being overactive Talking too much Typically, ADHD is diagnosed when a child exhibits more than six symptoms from these categories in at least two settings, such as school and home. What Causes ADHD?  The exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, and while some people suggest food additives and sugar may play a role, this is not supported by evidence. Recognized causes include: Alcohol consumption or smoking during pregnancy Exposure to certain environmental risks during pregnancy (e.g., lead) Premature birth Brain damage (including abnormalities in neurotransmitters or infections) Low birth weight (less than 3 pounds) What Can We Do About It? Medication  Psychostimulants can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. Consult with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your child. Behavior Modification  Alongside medication, adjusting parenting practices can help manage ADHD. Consider the following strategies: Ensure your child gets the appropriate amount of sleep for their age. Monitor for signs of hyperactivity and intervene when necessary. Keep playtime and social interactions brief to help your child maintain self-control. Communicate with your child's teachers and school administrators about their ADHD. They can provide support and help you navigate any special care needed. Encourage regular exercise (30-60 minutes a day) to help manage symptoms. Reference:NHS, (24 December,2021), Symptoms-Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/symptoms/Zilpah Sheikh, (November 15, 2023), ADHD in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment   https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-childrenChadd, Parenting a Child with ADHDhttps://chadd.org/for-parents/overview/Melinda Smith, (February 5, 2024), ADHD testing and diagnosis: What you need to knowhttps://www.helpguide.org/articles/add-adhd/diagnosing-attention-deficit-disorder-adhd.htmStephen Brian Sulkes, (Apr 2024), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/children-s-health-issues/learning-and-developmental-disorders/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd?query=ADHDDisclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

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7 Fascinating Facts About August Babies

7 Fascinating Facts About August Babies

The name August originates from the great Roman emperor Augustus, bestowed in honor of his military victory in conquering Egypt in August. As the last month of summer, August brings many interesting traits to babies born during this time. Here are seven facts you might find intriguing: They Are Either Leo or Virgo  Babies born in August have zodiac signs of either Leo (July 23 - August 22) or Virgo (August 23 - September 22). Leos are known for their natural leadership and charisma. Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama are Leos, showcasing the sign’s natural presidential qualities. Virgos, in contrast, are known for their neatness, organization, and logical approach. They are pragmatic and kind, though sometimes seen as picky. Michael Jackson was a Virgo, known for his meticulous nature. August Birthstones Are Unique    The birthstones for August are peridot and spinel. Peridot, symbolizing the tears of Pele, the volcano goddess, was considered a national treasure in ancient Egypt. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and protect against harmful energies. Spinel, renowned for its calming properties, is famously featured in the British Crown Jewels and is known to promote inner peace and concentration. August Birth Flowers Have Their Own Stories    The birth flowers for August are gladiolus and poppy. Gladiolus symbolizes perseverance and wasfamously worn by ancient Roman gladiators. The poppy, associated with remembrance and resurrection, is worn to honor soldiers who died in war. August Babies Are Likely to Be Tall  Studies suggest that babies born in August tend to be taller. This may be due to their mothers receiving more sunlight during pregnancy, which increases Vitamin D levels and contributes to their height. August Babies Have an Optimistic Outlook  The positive effects of sunlight might contribute to a more optimistic and positive outlook. August-born babies are often less likely to experience depression and sadness, enjoying a mindset filled with optimism and a sense of good fortune. August Babies Are Natural Athletes  Due to their active nature and love for outdoor activities, many August-born individuals excel in sports and physical pursuits. Their competitive spirit and enjoyment of physical challenges are notable traits. August Is Filled with Quirky Holidays There are several fun and quirky holidays in August that you might want to celebrate: Spider-Man Day (August 1), Sandcastle Day (August 3), National Lazy Day (August 10), Melon Day (August 11), and La Tomatina (August 31).   References:Felix R. Day, (October 12, 2015), Season of birth is associated with birth weight, pubertal timing, adult body size and educational attainment: a UK Biobank studyhttps://www.cell.com/heliyon/fulltext/S2405-8440(15)30241-3Americangemsociety, (August 2, 2021), Everything You Need to Know About the Spinel Gemhttps://www.americangemsociety.org/everything-you-need-to-know-spinel-gem/McKenzie Jean-Philippe, (July 28, 2020), 45 Famous Leo Celebrities to Wish Happy Birthday This Zodiac Seasonhttps://www.oprahdaily.com/entertainment/g33394742/leo-celebrities-list/McKenzie Jean-Philippe, (July 28, 2020), Celebrities Whose Star Sign Is Virgo https://people.com/celebrity/celebrities-who-are-virgos/ Dictionary, (August 1, 2021), Which Overachiever Is August Named For? https://www.dictionary.com/e/august/Gardenia. August birth flower: what is my birth flower?https://www.gardenia.net/guide/august-birth-flower-what-is-my-birth-flower Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

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Understanding SIDS: A Silent Concern for Infant Health

Understanding SIDS: A Silent Concern for Infant Health

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) remains a significant cause of unexpected infant mortality in the United States, though its incidence has decreased since the late 20th century. It is responsible for a portion of sudden infant deaths, alongside accidents and unexplained causes. SIDS typically affects infants up to six months old, with the highest risk occurring between two to four months. Boys are more susceptible than girls. What’s the reason? The exact cause of SIDS is still unknown, but several risk factors have been identified. Premature birth, low birth weight, and certain prenatal factors may increase vulnerability. Environmental factors also play a crucial role: Exposure to secondhand smoke Co-sleeping with parents Sleeping with soft bedding, pillows, or plush toys Overheating due to excessive clothing or room temperature Sleeping on soft surfaces like couches or armchairs How to prevent? Reducing the risk of SIDS involves several proactive steps: Back to Sleep:Always place infants on their back for sleep, which significantly reduces the risk of SIDS. This practice should continue throughout the first year of life. Smoke-Free Environment:Keep the baby away from cigarette smoke and do not allow smoking inside the home or around the baby. Regular Check-ups:Attend prenatal care appointments and ensure regular health check-ups for the baby to monitor growth and development. Safe Sleeping Environment:Use a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib or bassinet. Avoid loose bedding, pillows, and soft toys in the sleep area. Maydolly's Smart Cradle is one such product, featuring an air-fiber mattress that enhances breath ability and reduces weight. Additionally, all four sides of the crib are designed with breathable mesh, providing ample room for your baby to breathe comfortably. The bassinet is equipped with an automatic rocking function and cry detection capabilities. When it detects the baby crying, it automatically begins rocking to soothe the baby, allowing both baby and parents to enjoy a restful sleep. While the exact causes of SIDS remain elusive, adhering to safe sleep practices significantly reduces its occurrence. By educating caregivers and parents about these preventive measures, we can work towards reducing the incidence of SIDS and ensuring the safety and well-being of infants.   References: NHS.(27, October,2021).Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sudden-infant-death-syndrome-sids/ CDC.(March 8, 2023).SUID AND SIDS-Data and Statistics CDC.(November, 9, 2023).SUID AND SIDS-About SUID and SIDS American Academy of Pediatrics.(August, 21, 2023).Safe Sleep https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/safe-sleep/ Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph(July,2022)Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/sids.html Mayoclinic. (July, 19, 2023).Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) https://www.mayoclinic.org/zh-hans/diseases-conditions/sudden-infant-death-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20352800   Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

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