What is ADHD?

ADHD is a brain disorder that causes a dramatic lack of focus in both children and adults. An inability to concentrate can result in learning disabilities and behavior problems. Some children may also struggle to sit still. If untreated, ADHD may result in an increased incidence of adverse long-term effects such as substance abuse, accidents, occupational underachievement, and relationship difficulties.

What Causes ADHD?

Irregular brain waves are strongly associated with ADHD. People who have symptoms of ADHD frequently emit an overabundance of low frequencydelta or theta waves which may lead to disorganization, incomplete work and distractibility. Additionally, persons with ADHD typically have a shortage of high frequency beta waves which results in inability to process information or problem solve.

ADHD Diagnosis and Advanced Treatment

Diagnosing ADHD is an in depth & complex process. ADHD cannot be diagnosed with a physical exam or a lab test, such as blood test or simple brain scan, or even just observation alone. Instead, health professionals use a sophisticated evaluation process to diagnose ADHD.

The Brain Wave Center, in partnership with the Psychological Associates of Central Florida (PACFlorida), has developed a new comprehensive assessment program to identify and/or to verify the potential for ADHD. This new platform combines standard tests and rating scales typically used to detect the presence of ADHD, but also adds electrophysiologic measures (EEG) to validate the findings and to identify other potential problems. The program includes: Clinical Review, Parent Questionnaire, Parent and Teacher Rating Scales, Psychometric Test Data, and Electro Physiologic Measures (qEEG or Brain Map.) We also investigate sleep issues, diet, and exercise. A physical exam and laboratory testing may take place to rule out medical problems that can mimic ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid issues.