By Dr. Joey Shulman D.C., RNCP

Attention-deficit disorder (ADD), also known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is the leading childhood psychiatric disorder in North America. The diagnosis of ADD has grown from 500,000 in 1985 to between five and seven million in 2002. Boys are diagnosed with ADD more frequently than girls. The current estimation is that one in every five boys is diagnosed.

ADD is a criteria disorder, meaning there are no concrete physical signs that can be detected by diagnostic measures such as blood analysis, x-ray or ultrasound. Although studies have attempted to link ADD to various neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, findings have been inconclusive. For a diagnosis, the behaviors must be pervasive, appear by the age of seven years and continue for a minimum of six months. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th edition), the following are signs and symptoms of ADD:

• Blurting out answers
• Fidgeting with hands or feet
• Squirming Losing or forgetting important things
• Difficulty waiting in line
• Failure to give attention to details or making careless mistakes in schoolwork
• Does not seem to listen when spoken to

• Adverse cardiovascular effects
• Blood sugar fluctuations
• Depression
• Disruption of growth hormone
• Headache or migraine
• Increased blood pressure Permanent changes to brain chemistry Psychosis or paranoia Stomach upset Tics and repetitive movements