Exercise as it relates to Disease/The effects of exercise on ADHD

Effect of Exercise as a Treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Brief Background

Neurobehavioral disorder causing patterns of inattention & hyperactivity caused by the imbalance of Catecholamines (Norepinephrine and Epinephrine) in the Prefrontal Cortex & Striatal Brain regions

Explanation/ Diagnosis of ADHD

There are two main criteria's used to diagnose ADHD, the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders & the International Classification of Disease. Once diagnosed clinical patience are then interviewed & observed by a medical specialist who look for a number of the following symptoms to help confirm the clinical diagnosis:


 * Inattention
 * Hyperactivity
 * Abnormalities in Prefrontal Cortex
 * Impeded maturation & growth of brain
 * Poor self esteem
 * Social Impairments
 * Temper outbursts
 * Depression

The above symptoms are not the only ones associated with ADHD, however are those that are more common, with varying degrees of severity for each individual basis. Furthermore, in order to be diagnosed with ADHD prominent symptoms must be present for at least six months, be excessive for the developmental age of the individual and cause impaired functioning

Treatment

Pharmacotherapy

The use of pharmaceutical treatment is the most common method of limiting/decreasing symptoms of ADHD. The two major stimulant medications being Methylphenidate(1) and Dexamphetamine, Both have a rapid, consistent and predictable effect on patience with an effective duration time of approximately 4 hours however both effect the body differently.

Methylphenidate; releases stored dopamine

Dexamphetamine; releases synthesised dopamine and blocks synaptic uptake

Adverse side effects of these drugs include but are not limited to:
 * High Blood Pressure
 * Sleep problems
 * Mood disturbances
 * Increased chance of psychotic events
 * Decreased growth rates

Exercise

As a treatment method for ADHD patients exercising has recently proved to be quite effective, acting in a number of positive ways ;


 * Increases levels of synaptic proteins
 * Elevation of hormone levels (insulin like growth factor, neurotropic factor)
 * Improved learning ability
 * Improved brain plasticity in children
 * Decreased behavioural issue
 * Improved executive functioning (adults)
 * Enhanced cognitive functioning
 * Improved inhibition

Recommendations
 * People with ADHD should spend time doing activities outdoors as studies found in the American Journal of Public Health show that out door activities cause a reduction in ADHD symptoms after being outside.
 * A minimum of 30 minutes 4 -5 times a week of moderate activity should be spent participating in physical activity as it helps improve chemical imbalances in the brain corresponding with the recommendations provided by the Heart Association & ADHD draft guidelines presented by the Australian government.
 * Heart Association also recommends that sports involving teamwork and/or attention to body stance is helpful for ADHD patients sufferering from focusing issues especially at a young age.

Recommended Readings
 * Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
 * Draft Australian Guidelines on ADHD

Reference List