ABC Medical Center > Diseases > Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

What is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder?

26 January 2026

This is a chronic condition affecting a large part of the global child population, manifesting as hyperactivity, impulsive behaviors, and problems focusing attention, among other aspects.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is known as ADHD and occurs more regularly in males. The exact cause is unknown, but the most recent clinical research points to problems with the central nervous system during development, genetic and environmental factors, premature birth, low birth weight, and alcohol or tobacco use by the mother during pregnancy.

There are three types of Attention-Deficit Disorder:

  • Inattentive presentation.
  • Hyperactive/Impulsive presentation.
  • Combined presentation of the two above.

Symptoms

Symptoms generally appear before 10 years of age and continue into adulthood. Signs can range from mild to severe, with the most common being:

  • Carelessness in schoolwork.
  • Difficulty staying focused or concentrated on activities, tasks, or play.
  • Difficulty getting along with other children.
  • Dislike for tasks or activities that demand mental effort requiring concentration.
  • Constant distractibility.
  • Lack of attention to details, leading to an inability to finish schoolwork.
  • Does not listen even when spoken to directly.
  • Impatience.
  • Interrupting conversations or games.
  • Constantly moving or fidgeting.
  • Frequently forgetting or losing things.
  • Problems following instructions or obeying rules.
  • Problems with organizing activities and tasks.
  • Constant talking (verbalization).

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder can lead to problems with self-esteem and socialization, as well as poor school performance.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Although there are no specific medical tests for detecting this condition, the specialist will analyze the minor’s behavior, perform a physical examination and a psychological evaluation, as well as hearing and vision tests, to rule out other problems with similar symptoms.

This condition can be successfully treated through multidisciplinary medical care that involves:

  • Medication (stimulants and non-stimulants).
  • Behavioral therapy.
  • Parent training and support.
  • Continuous medical counseling.

At the Neurological Center, a group of highly trained and certified doctors across various neurological specialties are ready to assist you with the quality and warmth that characterizes us.

Related centers and departments Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Neurology Center
High Specialty Surgery Center
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory

Sources:

  • nimh.nih.gov
  • childmind.org
  • topdoctors.es
  • kidshealth.org
  • medlineplus.gov
  • msdmanuals.com
  • medigraphic.com
  • Reyes ZE, Ricardo GJ, Palacios CL, et al. Potenciales relacionados con eventos y comorbilidad en un grupo de adolescentes con trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad. Salud Mental. 2008;31(3):213-220.
  • Hernández-Torres D, Martínez-Meneses M, Castillo-Mimila ME, et al. Control inhibitorio y conducta social en niños y adolescentes con trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad: una revisión de la literatura. Rev Elec Psic Izt. 2021;24(2):805-831.
  • Moreno-Altamirano L, Flores-Ocampo AE, Ceballos-Rasgado M, et al. Estado nutricional, consumo de alimentos ultra procesados y trastorno por déficit de la atención, hiperactividad e impulsividad en alumnos de secundaria de la Ciudad de México. Rev Salud Pública Nutr. 2021;20(2):32-41.
  • Prego BCE, Almaguer RC, Novellas RAE, et al. Caracterización histórico-tendencial del proceso de intervención comunitaria del trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad. Correo Científico Médico. 2019;23(3):.

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