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Ultra Low Dose Enzyme Activated
Immunotherapy (LDA)
Post Traumatic Environmental Stress Disorder
Peace of Mind: Holistic
Approaches to Anxiety and ADD (on "New Life Journal" Website)
Bipolar Disorder Can Be Treated With
Medication and Naturally
ALLERGY REDUCTION:
Improving Mood and Energy
Hidden Factors Behind Your Persistent Illness
Adult ADD:
To Medicate or Go Natural
Cancer
– Finding Your Best
Advisor
Overweight - The Risk and the Remedy
Loss of Sexual Interest
Approaches in Helping Bipolar Sufferers
Help for Panic and Anxiety Sufferer
Seasonal Affective Disorder: The Winter Blues
Depression Relief Speeds Health Recovery
Amino Acids & Other Considerations in Depression
Evaluation
Integrative Medicine & Psychiatry
Blood Pressure -
A Wake up Call
Addictions - Breaking the Cycle
Spirituality:
The Core of Healing in Integrative Psychiatry
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ADULT
ADD:
TO MEDICATE OR GO NATURAL
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also commonly
referred to as Attention-deficit disorder (ADD), occurs in about 4
to 5% of the population. There are three subtypes according to what
symptoms predominate: (1) inattentive, (2) hyperactivity-impulsivity
and (3) the combination of 1 & 2 (more common in adults). The age of
recognition in adults is around forty, though it must be present to
some degree since age seven or younger for diagnosis. After age
twelve, 50 to 60% of children will continue with ADD symptoms into
adulthood, usually of the inattentive type - as difficulties with
organizing, sustaining attention, distractibility, finishing tasks,
procrastination, losing things, forgetfulness and making mistakes.
Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms commonly seen in children and
adolescents are less likely to be seen in adults. Difficulties with
fidgeting, feeling settled, talking excessively, intruding into
conversation, blurting out answers, or running & climbing
dangerously in children may be experienced in the adult as internal
restlessness or other symptoms. Difficulties relaxing quietly in
children may relate to substance abuse in adolescence or adults.
Adults who have symptoms of ADD are only considered to have a disorder
when the above symptoms cause significant impairment or disability
over time. Examples would be if ADD symptoms lead to compromised
performance at work; in family life; in social activity; contribute
to substance abuse; or ill health from being chronically over
extended or not getting adequate sleep or relaxation. ADD is a
highly inheritable condition passed from parent to child. Scientist
have documented in brain imaging and brain chemical transmission
studies that clear biological differences are present to account for
behavioral or attentional characteristics of ADD. Having ADD can be
more problematic when an individual finds himself in an adverse work
or life situation when he feels there are no other choices or
options available for him.
Unfortunately, there is major discrimination against people with ADD
in work, academic and social situations. However, ADD in all forms
from minor or severe is so common in our population, it is important
to recognize that for many, it is not a disability or disorder,
though at times a struggle. When people with ADD are in a positive
fit with their life situation and operating within their capacity,
they are some of our most creative, talented and productive
citizens.
There are many natural and conventional treatment options.
Conventional treatments for ADD would be with psycho-stimulants as
Ritalin, Concerta or Adderall; or antidepressants as Wellbutrin or
less commonly used agents as Clonidine, Tenex, Cylert, or
Nortriptyline. Some promising natural approaches are recognizing and
treating allergies; improving nutrition as avoiding additives,
chemicals and refined sugars; ADD coaching; behavioral cognitive
therapies to help modify dysfunctional patterns; family therapy; EEG
Biofeedback; and treatment with vitamin, mineral, amino acid,
botanicals and essential fatty acid supplements as: Vitamin B6,
Magnesium, L-Tyrosine, DL-Phenylalanie, 5-HTP or L-tryptophan, fish
oil caps, SAMe, St. John's Wort and Gingko Biloba. It is recommended
that these treatments only be considered or tried under the careful
supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Ronald R. Parks, M.D. practices integrative medicine and psychiatry
in Asheville. For information or consultations call 828-225-1812
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