Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a condition that makes it difficult for someone to properly focus or control certain behaviors. While its severity has a wide range, ADHD can be a difficult disorder to deal with on any level. Fortunately, there are specialists that can help.

The question most people have is, when is the right time to seek the help of an ADHD specialist, if at all? To help answer these questions, Carolina Attention Specialists have a list of reasons why anyone dealing with ADHD should seek a specialist for treatment.

The Effects of Untreated ADHD

Without the proper treatment, ADHD can have negative effects on many areas of your life. It can interfere with your work life, it can prevent a child from succeeding in school, and it can put strain on a relationship. Along with that, sufferers of untreated ADHD can experience additional stress from the disorder, which could lead to more serious problems such as self-esteem issues, anxiety, and more.

Working with Leading Experts

Despite their good intentions, a primary care physician isn’t always able to help on the same level an ADHD specialist can. The reason for this comes down to experience. A basic physician may deal with the occasional case of ADHD here and there, but an ADHD specialist deals with these cases every day. In addition to that, it may be difficult for a non-expert to properly diagnose a case of ADHD, which could delay the right kind of treatment. To truly help with ADHD, you need an expert who understands the disorder inside and out, which is where the specialists come in with their knowledge base and experience. By seeing an ADHD specialist, you know you’ll be receiving the most advanced treatment available.

Individualized Treatment Plans

When it comes down to it, we’re all different, and not everyone suffers from ADHD the same way. That means there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, which means there needs to be an individualized plan for each patient. Because ADHD specialists understand the disorder so well, they know which treatment option will work best for each individual.

The right help is out there for anyone dealing with ADHD. To receive more information on ADHD treatment in the Greensboro, North Carolina, area, contact Carolina Attention Specialists and get started today!

Why has ADHD become more commonly diagnosed?

There is evidence that diagnosis has significantly improved over the last 10-20 years. Still, many patients and parents ask:
“Is there anything I can do to improve my/my child’s ADHD symptoms in addition to medication?”
The answer is yes! While medication is the first line of treatment for ADHD, lifestyle and dietary changes can also have a substantial impact on behavior and brain health.

Certain nutrients are known to play a role in brain imbalances linked to conditions like Alzheimer’s, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. Incorporating these key nutrients into 1-2 meals a day can be beneficial.

- Magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium are minerals vital for the synthesis and regulation of neurotransmitters that affect emotions and behavior. A diet rich in whole foods, especially colorful vegetables, can usually meet these mineral needs, but picky eaters might benefit from a multivitamin. Where possible, opt for organic produce, using guides like the Dirty Dozen/Clean Fifteen to prioritize your purchases.

- B-vitamins, particularly B6, are crucial for brain signaling. Foods like fish, garbanzo beans, sunflower seeds, pistachios, poultry, potatoes, and non-citrus fruits (e.g., bananas, prunes) are excellent sources. A well-rounded diet typically provides sufficient B6, so supplementation is usually unnecessary unless there’s long-term prescription drug use.

- Omega-3 fatty acids are well-studied for their role in neurological development and function, which is fitting since the brain is 70% fat! Foods such as avocados, olives, salmon, grass-fed beef, and free-range eggs are great sources of healthy fats. However, Omega-3s can be harder to get through diet alone, especially for children, so a supplement might be needed. Be sure to choose a quality brand, as Omega-3 supplements can be contaminated.

- The gut-brain axis highlights the strong connection between gut and brain health. Gut flora imbalances from stress, excess sugar, or antibiotic use can negatively affect brain function. Fermented foods like kombucha, raw sauerkraut, and yogurt support healthy gut bacteria, but a probiotic supplement may be helpful in some cases.

- Heavy metal exposure has been linked to lower IQ, impaired cognitive development, and neurological issues. If exposure to metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, or arsenic is suspected, testing may be beneficial.

In summary, a diet that supports brain health should be based on whole foods and rich in antioxidants from colorful plant foods. Aim to minimize toxin exposure from additives, pesticides, trans fats (hydrogenated oils), and preservatives. Consider evaluating for deficiencies in magnesium, B6, zinc, tyrosine, selenium, and iron. Discuss with your provider whether a probiotic is right for you if you have signs of gut imbalance. If these changes aren’t enough to improve mood and focus, food and chemical sensitivity testing could provide a more personalized dietary approach.

Should my child continue taking ADHD medications during summer break?

The answer isn't straightforward!

While school may take a summer break, ADHD does not.

• ADHD symptoms extend beyond challenges with attention and schoolwork. They also include impulsivity, emotional regulation difficulties, disorganization, sleep issues, and struggles with functioning without a structured routine.
• For teens who are driving or working summer jobs (lifeguarding, babysitting, camp counseling, etc.), continuing ADHD medication is often recommended, as inattention and impulsivity could lead to serious accidents or injuries.
• ADHD symptoms can also make summer family life and vacations more challenging and stressful for both the child and their family.
• A child's social skills without medication can be 2-3 years behind their actual age, which may make social interactions at summer camp more difficult.

There is a small group of ADHD patients for whom a summer medication break or a dose reduction might be appropriate:

• Those experiencing significant weight loss on medication.
• If there are questions about the necessity of medication, summer can be a good time to try a short break.

It's important for families to discuss summer plans with their child's ADHD physician each spring. Together, you can create a tailored summer ADHD management plan, ensuring your child has the safest and most enjoyable summer possible!

— Dr. Emily Thompson