Definition of Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity refers to physical hyperactive behavior and a hyperactive behavioral disorder. Energy and activity are positive qualities that help individuals enjoy their days, but some individuals have a hard time controlling their bodies or their behaviors. Sometimes this hyperactivity is a physical condition, while other times individuals might be suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder.
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Physical Hyperactivity Definition
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Physical hyperactivity is a state in which a muscle, tendon, ligament or other body part becomes inappropriately active given the situation. For instance, a gland in the body might produce far too much of a particular hormone, throwing the body out of balance. Other specifics of hyperactivity depend on the type of hyperactivity experienced.
Types
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The gland that most commonly becomes hyperactive is the thyroid gland, which leads to fatigue, weight loss, a rapid heartbeat, sweating and trembling. Hyperactive muscles can include muscle spasms, trembling and restlessness. Trembling and restlessness can interfere with sleep and make the sufferer uncomfortable, while muscle spasms can often be painful.
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Hyperactive Disorder
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Hyperactivity disorder, also called ADHD, is a behavioral disorder in which mostly affects children, though teenagers and adults can suffer from it as well. Sufferers are often distracted and exhibit impulsive behavior. This is a medical disorder that is often treated with medication. Those with hyperactivity disorder have three traits that vary in intensity from individual to individual: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Symptoms
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Those with high difficulty maintaining attention have a difficult time sticking with one activity and cannot focus. Sufferers have difficulty following directions, processing information and completing tasks. Daydreaming and boredom are common. This boredom can lead to hyperactive behaviors like constant talking, focus on physically active behaviors and a difficulty sitting down. Those who are impulsive have a difficulty sitting still, keeping opinions to themselves and waiting. These symptoms interfere with the child's learning and can also make the child disruptive in a classroom.
Diagnosing ADHD
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ADHD can be difficult to diagnose because most children are impulsive, energetic and inattentive at one time or another. Those with ADHD constantly exhibit these symptoms. Also, many medical conditions can lead to ADHD-like behavior. Hearing and visual problems, learning disabilities, anxiety and depression can all appear to be ADHD to parents and pediatricians. Also some environments are easily distracting. Pediatricians must make sure that the child's behavior deviates significantly from the norm found in the classroom before diagnosing ADHD.
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