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What Other Conditions Look Like ADHD?
When considering the diagnosis of ADHD in children, it is important to rule out other conditions that can look like it. Make sure your doctor has checked for all of these conditions before diagnosing your child.
- Allergies, Asthma and Respiratory Problems- difficulty breathing can interrupt a child's concentration and cause ADHD-like signs.
- Diabetes/Hypoglycemia- these conditions relate to the amount of sugar in the blood. They can cause changes in concentration and activity level.
- Hearing or Visual Problems- the inability to see or hear what is going on in the classroom can cause behavioral problems, especially hyperactivity.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia - iron deficiency anemia can lead to attention and impulsivity problems.
- Lead Intoxication- lead intoxication can lead to hyperactivity.
- Medications- if your child is on medications, make sure the side-effects of the medications do not mimic ADHD.
- Neurological Problems- A person who has small seizures will stare off into space for a short time and not remember what happened.
- Other Psychiatric Problems- Sometimes the symptoms of stress, boredom, depression, or anxiety can mimic ADHD.
- School or Learning Assessment- If the child feels too pushed, is frustrated from learning disabilities, or is seeking attention they may exhibit ADHD-like behavior.
- Thyroid Problems- the thyroid gland produces hormones that affect sleep, emotions, and activity. Changes in these hormones can produce ADHD behavior.

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