Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a mental disorder that affects children, teenagers, and adults. ADD is also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD. The symptoms are what distinguish the complex mental disorder as inattention, hyperactivity or impulsiveness. What are the general symptoms of ADD /ADHD?
Inattentive patients-:
• Skip the necessary steps of a procedure.
• Have a hard time Organizing schoolwork or office work
• Are easily distracted
• Do not pay attention to details thus makes careless mistakes
• Are forgetful
• Are unable to stick to tasks that are time-consuming
• Quickly loses focus and do not follow instructions
• Have low self-esteem and often daydream
Hyperactive patients-:
• Cannot sit still
• Blurts out comments at inappropriate times
• Interrupts others when they are talking
• Acts without thinking.
• May result in temper tantrums
• Are anxious
Causes of ADD/ADHD
Though studies do not show the exact cause of the disorders, several factors are considered as ADD causes. Genes may cause the disorder as children may inherit the condition from parents. Brain structure and function is another reason especially when some brain areas are smaller, and others are larger than normal brains. Patients with ADHD tend to have an imbalance in the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. Other causes are exposure to toxic lead, damage to the central nervous system during pregnancy or first years of life and premature births.
Treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder
A patient may be treated by use of medication, therapy or both. Psychoeducation therapy allows patients to discuss how the disorder affects them. Behavior therapy encourages patients to control the symptoms and get rewarded for every effort they make. Cognitive behavioral therapy changes how someone thinks about a situation. Behavior management allows the patient to plan and structure activities. Diet can be used to treat ADD by eating healthy and balanced food and cutting or avoiding some foods. Some of the foods to avoid are sugar, coffee, additives, and dairy products. The use of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supplements can also treat ADD/ADHD symptoms.
The medication helps patients to concentrate better, be calmer and be less impulsive.
Some medicines are stimulants that stimulate the brain area which controls behavior and attention. The others increase noradrenaline, a chemical in the brain that controls impulses and helps in concentration. Amphetamine, atomoxetine, methylphenidate, and guanfacine are some of the treatments used. A kratom is a form of treatment that is gaining popularity with ADD/ADHD patients.
What is Kratom?
It is a herbal drug that is also known as mitragyna speciosa and has been used for a long time. It is in the same family with coffee and is popular in Southeast Asia. The drug is legal in most countries though it is illegal in its country of origin. It is used as a sedative, painkiller, for recreation purposes, and as a stimulant. Kratom in Southeast Asia is known for treating diarrhea, arthritis, fibromyalgia and restless leg syndrome. It contains active components known as alkaloids making it have a mood-lifting and stimulating effect. The wonder herb can be used to make tea, milkshakes and is also available in capsules form.
How does Kratom help in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)?
Studies show that patients with ADD/ADHD do not have serotonin neurotransmitter. Thus, their mood, memory, and learning are not regulated. They have deregulation due to the abnormal orientation of dopamine receptors. When the levels of dopamine are low, the patient has low attention while as when they have higher levels they have sensory perception. ADD patients also have an imbalance of the calming neurotransmitter (GABA). Kratom being an opioid receptor agonist acts on the GABA receptors and reduces GABA release. When GABA receptors are inhibited, dopamine release is reduced. Dopamine receptors are responsible for motivation, drive, mental energy, and alertness. When dopamine is released freely, symptoms of ADHD are controlled and treated. Kratom binds to the receptors and thus gives you a great feeling and increases your activity.
Can one take two ADD drugs simultaneously?
It is important for one to consult a medical practitioner before trying any combination. Kratom for ADD may be used to Curbside effects of amphetamine such as depression, fatigue, numbness, and anxiety. Simultaneous intake of drugs should be dependent on the dosage of each drug. Kratom can also be used together with amphetamine to manage pain. It is important to avoid an overdose as it can overload the liver. Kratom should be used in smaller amounts to avoid its addictive property. When starting on Kratom, one should take the lowest effective dose. Some users have reported Kratom as being sedative when used in higher dosages.
The Users review on Kratom usage and ADD/ADHD
Many people acknowledge that Kratom to ADD enhances concentration and performance. They say it is a mild stimulant and does not have side effects such as hypertension and headaches. A majority of users acknowledge its effectiveness in treating the symptoms of ADD. It is important to consult a doctor before using Kratom pills, powders, teas or any other formulation. One should also check the purity and concentration information of Kratom products when he is purchasing.
More about Kratom
• It is used to treat depression and bipolar disorder
• it is Used to improve sleep
• It is used to improve libido
• It treats opium dependence
• There are villagers in Thailand who chew fresh or dried leaves of Kratom.
More research is being undertaken to establish the benefits and side effects of Kratom. As an Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hypersensitivity Disorder treatment, Kratom is effective and safe to use in moderation. It is good to note that regular and prolonged consumption of Kratom has some adverse side effects.