Hyperactivity: what is this, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Hyperactivity; Activity – increased; Hyperkinetic behavior

Hyperactivity is a mental disorder, manifested in the form of increased emotional lability and activity. The main symptoms of hyperactivity are high aggressiveness, anxiety, irritability, constant moving. In connection with such manifestations of hyperactivity, there is often a deterioration in academic performance and impaired communication in groups..

Symptoms of hyperactivity

Hyperactive behavior is characterized by constant activity, easily distractible, impulsiveness, inability to concentrate, aggressiveness and similar behavior.

Typical hyperactivity behaviors may include:

• Fidgetiness or constant movement
• Increased talkativeness
• Difficulty participating in quiet activities (eg, in reading)

Hyperactivity is not so easy to define. Often it depends on the observer.. Behavior, that seems active to one person, may not appear active to others. But some children, compared to others, obviously much more active. This could be a problem, if it interferes with studies or friendships.

Hyperactivity is often seen as more of a problem for schools and parents., than for a child. But many hyperactive children are unhappy or even depressed.. Hyperactive behavior can make a child a target for bullying or make it difficult to communicate with other children.. School can be more challenging. Hyperactive children are often punished for their behavior..

excessive movement (hyperkinetic behavior) often decreases as the child grows older. By adolescence, it may disappear completely..

Causes of hyperactivity

Conditions, which can lead to hyperactivity, include:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Diseases of the brain or central nervous system
• Emotional disorders
• Overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism)

Home care for hyperactivity

Child, who is usually very active, often responds well to certain instructions and controls their physical activity. But it can be difficult for a child with ADHD to follow directions and control impulses..

When to See a Healthcare Professional for Hyperactivity

Contact your child's health care provider, if:

• Your child seems to be hyperactive most of the time.
• Your child is very active, aggressive, impulsive or having difficulty concentrating.
• Your child's activity level is causing social or academic difficulties.

What to Expect When Visiting a Doctor for Hyperactivity

The health worker will perform a physical exam on your child and ask about the child's symptoms and medical history. Sample questions include, is the behavior new, whether your child has always been very active and whether his behavior is getting worse.

A healthcare professional may recommend a psychological evaluation. There may also be a revision of the home and school environment.

Used literature and sources

Chaves-Gnecco D, Feldman HM. Developmental/behavioral pediatrics. In: Kids BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis’ Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 3.

Morrow C. Psychiatry. In: Kleinman K, Mcdaniel L, Molloy M, eds. The Harriet Lane Handbook. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 24.

Urion DK. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Bloom NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 49.