Hyperactivity in childhood

Article Abstract:

An article in the November 15, 1990 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine presents a clear theoretical connection between the condition of hyperactivity in children and its biological roots. This condition has recently been renamed as attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and affects between 1 and 5 percent of children, with an eight-fold higher prevalence in males than females. Although it is likely that more than one cause produces the condition, the data from this study strongly suggest that there is an underlying metabolic disruption in the brains of these children. These metabolic disturbances may be the final common pathway of various pathologic factors including biologic and psychosocial components. Children with this condition have difficulty maintaining their attention, and often cannot control their impulsive behavior. As a result, they are often seen as socially disruptive, in trouble with parents and teachers, and unpopular with peers. In adulthood, the condition is found to correlate with antisocial behavior that may include drug and alcohol abuse, increased risk of car accidents, suicidal behavior, and other psychiatric impairment. The new findings described in this article show metabolic variations in hyperactive individuals; these variations have not yet been proven to be the underlying cause of the condition. These results should also not be taken to mean that psychologic therapies, particularly cognitive therapy, are not useful in children with hyperactivity. Further studies will be required to confirm and expand our understanding of the biologic aspects of this condition. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Brain, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, editorial

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Carbon monoxide poisoning

Article Abstract:

Carbon monoxide is a common cause of poisoning in the US. Environmental sources of carbon monoxide include motor vehicles, gasoline-powered heaters and cigarette smoke. Carbon monoxide can directly damage tissues and it can cause low blood levels of oxygen because it binds to hemoglobin. The most common symptoms are headache, dizziness, weakness, difficulty concentrating, and nausea. High levels of carboxyhemoglobin in blood and exhaled air can confirm the diagnosis. The patient should be removed from the source of carbon monoxide and given oxygen. Hospitalization may be necessary for severe cases.

Analysis, Carbon monoxide poisoning

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Primary prevention of childhood lead poisoning -- the only solution

Article Abstract:

The best way to protect children from lead poisoning is to prevent it by removing all lead-based paint in homes. Once the child has even moderate lead poisoning, chelation therapy to remove the lead from the body will not necessarily prevent neurological disability.

Care and treatment, Editorial, Evaluation, Lead poisoning, Chelation therapy

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