ADD/ADHD is an increasing problem affecting all ages of individuals around the world. This presentation discusses possible causes, conditions that mimic ADD/ADHD, and the use of Homeobotanicals in treatment of secondary symptoms.
2. ADD and ADHD are complex neurobiological disorders in
which neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers of the
brain, do not work properly.
Researchers believe the neurotransmitters, norepinephrine,
dopamine, and serotonin are deficient.
Through the use of PET scans, NIMH researchers have found
reduced blood flow and activity levels in the brains of adults
with ADHD when they were working on thinking tasks.
In addition the white matter that carries messages between
neurons, is also smaller (without indication of brain damage).
(retrieved from http://www.chrisdendy.com/keyfacts.htm)
ADD/ADHD
4. ADHD Causes…
Current research indicates the frontal lobe, basal ganglia, caudate
nucleus, cerebellum, as well as other areas of the brain, play a significant
role in ADHD because they are involved in complex processes that
regulate behavior (Teeter, 1998).
higher order processes are referred to as executive functions.
include such processes as inhibition, working memory, planning, self-
monitoring, verbal regulation, motor control, maintaining and changing
mental set and emotional regulation.
According to a current model of ADHD developed by Dr. Russell Barkley,
problems in response inhibition is the core deficit in ADHD.
has a cascading effect on the other executive functions listed above
(Barkley, 1997).
factors that account for neurological differences in brain development
and functioning that contribute to ADHD
fetal exposure to toxic substances (e.g., alcohol and tobacco) during
pregnancy,
exposure to lead,
trauma to the brain from head injury or illness
differences attributed to heredity.
http://www.myadhd.com/causesofadhd.html
5. Chronic, lifelong condition, beginning
before age 7
children tend to be unnerved by sensory
overstimulation, such as transitions from
one activity to the next
children with ADHD do not generally
experience despair as a symptom
moods approach suddenly and can
dissipate quickly
Tend to wake alert
Have trouble falling asleep
difficulty calming down and falling asleep
Misbehavior is accidental
Ignoring authority figures, running into
things, and making messes results from
inattentiveness
http://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/
adhd-misdiagnosis
ADHD
7. Symptoms
Symptoms of inattention
fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes
in schoolwork, work, or other activities
has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores,
or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or
failure to understand instructions)
has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require
sustained mental effort (e.g., schoolwork or homework)
loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school
assignments, pencils, books, or tools)
is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
is forgetful in daily activities
8. Symptoms of hyperactivity
fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which
remaining seated is expected
runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is
inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to
subjective feelings of restlessness)
has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
is “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”
talks excessively
Symptoms…
9. Symptoms of impulsivity
blurts out answers before questions have been completed
has difficulty awaiting turn
interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or
games)
The presence of six or more symptoms under the category of
inattention or hyperactivity and impulsivity may indicate a
problem if they occur frequently, result in impairment, and
are not caused by other conditions.
http://www.myadhd.com/getadiagnosis.html
Symptoms…
11. ADHD-like causes
ADHD is diagnosed by health
professionals who form their
opinion by observing a child's
behavior.
There are no brain scans,
blood tests, or anything else
definite that is used during
diagnosis.
There are many other
problems that have the same
symptoms of ADHD.
any problem dealing with the
fuels of the body: water,
food, blood and air can cause
behavior problems
12. Conditions that seem like ADHD
Allergies
Anemias
B vitamin deficiencies
Carbon Monoxide poisoning
Central Auditory processing Disorder
Cardiac conditions
Dietary Factors
Early-Onset Bi-Polar disorder
Early-onset diabetes
Excessive amounts of Vitamins
Genetic defects
Hearing and vision problems
Head injuries
Heart disease
High mercury levels
High manganese levels
Hypoglycemia
Hyper or hypothyroidism
Iron deficiency
Learning disabilities
Malnutrition or improper diet
Metabolic disorders
Mild to high lead levels
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Sensory Integration Dysfunction
Sleeping disorders
Spinal Problems
subclinical seizure/seizure disorders
Tourette's syndrome
Toxin exposures
Viral or bacterial infections
Worms
There are also many medical, biological, emotional and mental conditions
that mimic ADHD (http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/adhd/50-conditions-that-mimic-adhd)
13. Conditions mimicking ADHD…
Brain cysts
beta-hemolytic
streptococcus
Candida Albicans infestation
Early stage brain tumors
Emotional problems
Fetal alcohol syndrome
(FAS)
Gifted Children
Genetic Disorder XYY
Intestinal parasites
Intentionally or
unintentionally sniffing
materials
Klinefelter syndrome
Lack of exercise
Lack of understanding and
communication skills
Porphyria
Some medications
Temporal lobe seizures
Spirited children
spoiled and undisciplined
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/adhd/50-conditions-that-
mimic-adhd
14. Diagnosing ADHD
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published guidelines
(2000)for assessomg ADHD.
(1) the primary care clinician should initiate an evaluation of children
ages 6 to 12 who present with inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity;
(2) the diagnosis of ADHD requires that a child meet the DSM IV
criteria;
(3) the assessment requires evidence directly obtained from parents or
caregivers regarding the core symptoms of ADHD in various settings,
the age of onset of symptoms, duration of symptoms, and the degree
of functional impairment;
(4) the assessment of ADHD requires evidence directly obtained from
the classroom teacher (or other school professional);
(5) the assessment should include evaluation for associated conditions;
(6) other diagnostic tests are not routinely indicated to establish a
diagnosis of ADHD but may be used for the assessment of co-existing
conditions (e.g., learning disabilities, mental retardation).
15. Homeobotanicals
Homeobotanicals are a Natural Health modality
delveloped in New Zealand (1984)
BOTH homeopathic and botanical indications are
considered for their therapeutic purpose.
Homeobotanical (Hb) formulas are
are a CORE THERAPY (used as a base for health
management regimens)
range may assist with many healthcare applicationssupplied
to a qualified Practitioner as a concentrate
formulations are considered suitable for all ages.
Only supplied as concentrates to qualified Hb providers
http://www.herbalenergy.co.nz/homeobotanicals.cfm
18. Aggravating Factor Hb Formula Support
Allergies/
Sensitivities
R: Supports the normal pulmonary ventilation. Assists lungs, respiratory
tract.
B: "Blood Purifier" for lymphatic stasis and suppurative conditions.
L: Acute and chronic hepatic dysfunction. Supports normal liver and gall.
A: Acute and chronic allergies for airborne, dietary and idiopathic
sources.
Food Allergies/
Sensitivities
M: Addresses derangement of viscera which may cause severe
headaches.
A: Acute and chronic allergies for airborne, dietary and idiopathic
sources.
Anemia B: "Blood Purifier" for lymphatic stasis and suppurative conditions.
F: Hormone balance, reproduction etc.
D: Acute and chronic gastrointestinal distress. Inflamed stomach.
#5: To assist the assimilation of nutrients. Used where poor diet is a
factor.
#7: The maintenance remedy for immunity and vigorous health.
EENT: Visual
Disturbances
O: Used externally as a lotion and/or internally as a remedy for
visual disturbances.
Hb Formulas for ADD/ADHD Sx
19. Aggravating Factor Hb Formula Support
EENT: Hearing Altered B: "Blood Purifier" for lymphatic stasis and suppurative conditions.
I: Herbal antiseptic & immunity boost for acute & chronic infection.
J: Localized anti-inflammatory action on the musculo-skeletal system.
#2: Restores the normal balance of the entire endocrine system.
Cn1: For prevention of chronic degeneration. Benign and neoplastic
lesions.
GI: Anorexia/
Poor Appetite
E: Nervous debility & excessive stress. Enhances all blends.
P: For the support of pancreas function. Balances hormone & enzyme
physiology.
#3: Use for earliest stages of febrile & infectious illness.
#5: To assist the assimilation of nutrients. Used where poor diet is a
factor.
Hbs for ADD/ADHD
21. Title page photo:
truthfrequencyradio.com & http://theaddvocates.com/wp-
content/uploads/2010/07/adhd-girl.jpg
Hb formula image: www.apothecary-shoppe.com
McDougle CJ, Naylor ST, Cohen DJ; Volkmar FR, Heninger GR; Price LH
(1996). A Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Fluvoxamine in Adults
With Autistic Disorder. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1996;53(11):1001-1008.
doi:10.1001/archpsyc.1996.01830110037005. Retrieved from
http://archpsyc.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=497673
Mercola.com (2014). Environmental Toxins linked to rise in autism.
Retrieved from
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/04/02/environmental-
toxin-exposure.aspx
Sukhodolsky DG, Scahill L, Gadow KD, Arnold LE, Aman MG, McDougle CJ,
McCracken JT, Tierney E, White SW, Lecavalier L, and Vitiello B. (2008).
Parent-Rated Anxiety Symptoms in Children with Pervasive Developmental
Disorders: Frequency and Association with Core Autism Symptoms and
Cognitive Functioning. Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology January 2008,
Volume 36, Issue 1, pp 117-128.
References