ADHD Specialist

Pediatrics of Long Island

Pediatrics located in Brentwood, NY & Patchogue, NY

More than 6 million children in the United States have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), making it one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Without treatment, ADHD can affect your child’s school performance and friendships. At Pediatrics of Long Island, experienced pediatric physicians Ramon Ferrand, MD, and Alaaeldin Moawad, MD, offer ADHD screenings and can make the appropriate referrals for your child to get the care they need. To schedule an evaluation, contact the office in Brentwood or Patchogue, New York, by phone or online today.

ADHD Q&A

What is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders diagnosed in children. A neurodevelopmental disorder refers to conditions that affect the development of the nervous system, which may alter brain function that impacts emotions, learning, or memory.

Children with ADHD have difficulty paying attention and controlling impulses. Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of ADHD, but theorize that genetics may play a role in its development. Your child may be at greater risk of developing ADHD if it runs in your family.

Other risk factors include low birth weight, premature delivery, brain injury, or exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead, during pregnancy or at a young age.

What are ADHD symptoms?

Most children have difficulty paying attention or behavioral issues from time to time. However, in a child with ADHD, these symptoms are chronic, difficult to control, and severe.

Signs and symptoms of ADHD include:

Squirming or fidgeting
Losing or misplacing items
Daydreaming a lot
Talking too much
Interrupting others when they talk
Making careless mistakes
Having a hard time making friends

Though previously thought of as only a childhood disorder, it’s now known that ADHD continues into adulthood. Getting an early diagnosis and treatment plan in place may improve school performance and your child’s self-confidence and self-esteem, and prevent problems later in life.

How is ADHD diagnosed?

At Pediatrics of Long Island, Dr. Ferrand and Dr. Moawad take a patient-centered approach to care and take their time to really get to know you and your child so they can provide the most appropriate care to optimize health and wellness. Currently, no single test can diagnose ADHD.

However, the pediatric physicians ask detailed questions to screen for the common neurodevelopmental disorder using criteria developed by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition. If your child meets the criteria, your provider refers you to a specialist for a formal diagnosis.

How is ADHD treated?

Treatment for ADHD includes a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. In addition to therapy for your child, you and your family may also benefit from therapy to learn more about ADHD and how to best help your child thrive.

To schedule an ADHD screening for your child, call Pediatrics of Long Island or book an appointment online today.

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