Causes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?

ADHD is a congenital mental problem which means that it has strong genetic reasons behind its development. But genetic factor is not the only reason for creating such abnormal state of mind there are some other factors as well which can contribute to this condition. Here we have discussed the factors causing ADHD in a child, an adult or a teen. Let’s have a look over them:

1- Genetic Factor

Firstly the inherited genetic pattern is considered the most important factor behind developmental irregularities of a child. In most of the cases ADHD is an outcome of genetic abnormalities. Long term research has proved that ADHD run in families which means that a patient of ADHD must already have another such patient in his family. Such family patient could be one of his parents, his brother, sister, grandparents, cousins, uncle and ants etc. If one of the parents is carrying the abnormal genetic pattern then the risk of developing ADHD in their child is much higher than other cases.

Abnormal genetic pattern can result in dysfunctioning of neurotransmitters which are responsible for carrying signals between nerves and brain. These neurotransmitters are called dopamine which also controls learning, sleeping and motor abilities of a person. If these neurotransmitters starts acting abnormally then there will be an adverse effects on all those functions comes under their control and in this way it results in developing ADHD.

Several approved stimulant and non stimulants drugs are used to empower the weakening signals of dopamine and to maintain the normal brain activity level. The most commonly used drugs to treat ADHD include Ritalin and Adderall. Studies have also proved that nicotine or cocaine also helps to increase dopamine activity level for certain time period and makes a patient mentally active for sometime. That is why some patients of ADHD are used to indulge in drug abuse to keep them active mind for as much time as they.                                   

2- Prenatal Conditions

Secondly prenatal conditions can another factor behind abnormal developmental growth of a child. If a woman smokes or drinks a lot during her crucial period of 9 months pregnancy then there is a chance that her child will have congenital problem of abnormal brain activity. Particularly drug abuse affects the neuron activity which results in producing abnormal neurotransmitters. In such cases a mother has to go through difficult pregnancy process and other delivery complications as well. Due to having difficulties in giving a birth a child there is also a chance of occurring head injuries to child which can further deteriorates his mental condition. Such children can also have low body weight at the time of their birth which could be another indication of their abnormal developmental process. 

3- Environmental Hazards

Thirdly environmental factor can also be a cause for developing ADHD in a child. These environmental hazards include exposure to toxins like PCBs and lead for longer period of time. Such exposure can cause to disturb the normal developmental pattern of a child and can results in retarded developmental condition of ADHD. 

Though the presence of one of the above three factors is enough to result in such complicated disorder but in various cases of ADHD more than one factor can also be involved in creating hyperactive state of mind and body in a normal child.