Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common brain condition that affects how a person pays attention, controls impulses, and stays still. It involves the nervous system, particularly areas of the brain that manage focus and self-control. People with ADHD often have trouble sitting still, following instructions, and completing tasks. This can affect their performance at school, work, and in social situations. ADHD usually starts in childhood but can continue into adulthood. The main health impact is difficulty with attention regulation and impulse control, which can lead to challenges in daily life.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. The core pathology involves dysregulation of dopaminergic and noradrenergic pathways in the prefrontal cortex and related brain regions. ADHD is believed to have a strong genetic component, with multiple genes such as DRD4 and DAT1 implicated. Environmental factors like prenatal exposure to toxins may also contribute. Clinically, ADHD presents with symptoms that are developmentally inappropriate and cause significant impairment in academic, occupational, or social settings. It is a major cause of functional disability in children and adults, often coexisting with other psychiatric disorders.