ADHD And Autism Specialist
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Palisades Pediatrics LLP
Board Certified Pediatrician & Integrative Health Care located in New City, NY
Around 10% of American children are diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) today, and 1 in 59 kids have autism spectrum disorder. If your child has symptoms of ADHD or autism, or if they’re already diagnosed and you need support, it’s important to find a pediatric specialist who takes a personalized approach to your child’s health. At Palisades Pediatrics LLP in New City, New York, your child gets compassionate care for ADHD and autism in a welcoming environment. Pediatric physician Dr. Evelyn Ha, MD, and her team are ready to help, so call the office or request an appointment online today.
ADHD and Autism Q&A
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that typically begins during childhood. Children with ADHD struggle to pay attention, focus, and concentrate at school and at home. They sometimes have difficulty sitting still, are impulsive, or don’t behave appropriately in the setting they are in.
If your child is unfocused or hyperactive enough to interfere with normal daily routines at school or home, they may have undiagnosed ADHD. There are three general types of ADHD, including:
Hyperactive type
With hyperactive type ADHD, children act impulsively and seem to have little control over their behavior. Kids with this kind of ADHD often have huge bursts of uncontrolled energy, and have trouble settling down, staying on task, being quiet, and following directions.
Inattentive type
With inattentive type ADHD, children frequently get distracted and find it very difficult to focus at school. Organization is often a problem, and many kids with inattentive ADHD may lose objects like school supplies frequently or forget their schoolwork. Your child may appear to be in his/her own world, or seem to daydream constantly.
Combined type
Combined type ADHD includes both hyperactive and inattentive behaviors. If your child’s symptoms don’t fit squarely into either the inattentive or hyperactive category because they have characteristics of both, Dr. Ha may diagnose this form of ADHD.
If you suspect your child may have ADHD, or if another doctor has already diagnosed him/her, Dr. Ha can help advocate for 504 accommodations at school and manage symptoms with a personalized care plan to assist your child in reaching their full academic potential and optimal social functioning.
What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder, or autism, is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that can affect behavior and emotions, learning, speech, nonverbal-communication, and social skills. Usually, autism spectrum disorder symptoms appear by the age of 2 or 3.
Autism spectrum disorder can refer to a range of conditions that doctors once diagnosed separately, including:
- Autistic disorder
- Childhood disintegrative disorder
- Pervasive developmental disorder — not otherwise specified
- Asperger syndrome
In some cases, children with ADHD also appear somewhere along the autism spectrum. Because symptoms can overlap, some children are diagnosed with ADHD alone, but it later turns out that they also have an autism spectrum disorder as well.
Children with autism, with or without ADHD, need customized care, a specialty of Dr. Ha's. Her unique approach to understanding neurodevelopmental disorders means that your child gets the most effective treatment approach for their specific situation and needs.
How do you treat ADHD and autism?
Your child is unique, and Dr. Ha believes they deserve a customized approach. There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for ADHD and autism. There are so many factors that contribute, and so many different symptoms, that a multipronged treatment approach is usually best.
At Palisades Pediatrics, Dr. Ha treats ADHD and autism spectrum disorders using an integrative, holistic approach that includes nutrition, supplements, and physical and mental wellness. She collaborates with you closely to ensure the best results and the happiest child.
To learn more, request your appointment online or call Palisades Pediatrics today.
