Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder A6 Module

 

 A6 – ADHD

🧠 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

📖 What Is ADHD?

 

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person:

 

Focuses

Controls impulses

Regulates activity levels

 

It can affect children, teenagers, and adults, and often continues throughout life.

 

🔍 Key Symptoms of ADHD

 

Symptoms fall into three main areas:

 

🟡 Inattention (Difficulty Focusing)

Easily distracted

Trouble paying attention

Appears not to listen

Loses items (keys, books, etc.)

Poor organization and time management

🔵 Hyperactivity

Constant movement or restlessness

Fidgeting or tapping

Difficulty sitting still

Talking excessively

🔴 ImpulsivityActing without thinking

Interrupting others

Difficulty waiting turns

Making quick decisions without considering consequences

🟣 Disorganization

Struggles with planning tasks

Difficulty completing work

Forgetfulness in daily activities

🧩 Types (Presentations) of ADHD

1️⃣ Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

Mainly focus and attention difficulties

Little or no hyperactivity

2️⃣ Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

High activity and impulsive behaviour

Less difficulty with attention

3️⃣ Combined Presentation

Both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms

Most common type

⚙️ Causes of ADHD

 

The exact cause is not fully understood, but research suggests:

 

Differences in brain structure and function

Genetics (runs in families)

Neurodevelopmental differences

🧠 Important Note

 

ADHD is not caused by:

 

Poor parenting

Laziness

Lack of intelligence

⚠️ Impact on Daily Life

 

ADHD can affect:

 

School or work performance

Relationships and friendships

Organization and independence

Emotional regulation

💊 Treatment and Management

 

ADHD is manageable with the right support, often using a combination of approaches.

 

💊 Medication

🔹 Stimulant Medications (First-line)

Methylphenidate

Amphetamine

🔹 Non-Stimulant Medications

Atomoxetine

 

These help improve:

 

Focus

Impulse control

Attention

🧠 Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Social skills training

Parent training (for children)

🎓 Support and Education

School accommodations (extra time, quiet spaces)

Organizational coaching

Routine and structure at home and school

🛠️ Everyday Support Strategies

Use planners or reminders

Break tasks into small steps

Keep routines consistent

Reduce distractions

Use visual supports

🛡️ Strengths of ADHD

 

Many people with ADHD have strengths such as:

 

Creativity

Energy and enthusiasm

Problem-solving skills

Thinking “outside the box”

⚠️ When to Seek Support

 

Seek professional help if:

 

Symptoms affect school, work, or relationships

There is stress, anxiety, or low self-esteem

Daily tasks feel overwhelming

💡 Key Message

 

ADHD is a real, lifelong condition, but with the right support, people can thrive and succeed in education, work, and life.

Type: Neurodevelopmental condition

 

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

 

Symptoms

Poor focus

Hyperactivity

Impulsivity

Disorganisation

Management

Medication (stimulants / non-stimulants)

Behaviour therapy

A5 – Addison’s Disease Module 4

 

🧠 Addison’s Disease – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Management

📖 What Is Addison’s Disease?

 

Addison’s disease is a rare, long-term (chronic) condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones.

 

The main missing hormones are:

 

Cortisol – helps the body respond to stress and maintain energy

Aldosterone – helps control blood pressure and salt balance

 

This condition requires lifelong treatment.

 

🔍 Causes of Addison’s Disease

🦠 Main Cause

Autoimmune disease

→ The immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands

⚙️ Other Causes

Infections (e.g. tuberculosis)

Damage to the adrenal glands (injury or surgery)

Genetic or rare conditions

⚠️ Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

 

Symptoms often develop slowly over time.

 

🟥 Common Symptoms

Extreme fatigue and weakness

Weight loss and reduced appetite

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation)

Salt cravings

🟧 Other Symptoms

Dizziness when standing

Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Muscle weakness

Irritability or low mood

🚨 Adrenal Crisis (Medical Emergency)

 

A serious complication is an Adrenal crisis.

 

🔴 Warning Signs

Severe vomiting and dehydration

Sudden, intense pain (abdomen, back, or legs)

Very low blood pressure

Confusion or loss of consciousness

 

➡️ This is a medical emergency – urgent treatment is required.

 

🩺 Diagnosis

 

Doctors may use:

 

Blood tests (to check hormone levels)

ACTH stimulation test

Imaging scans (CT or MRI)

💊 Treatment of Addison’s Disease

 

Treatment is lifelong hormone replacement therapy.

 

💊 Cortisol Replacement

Hydrocortisone

Or Prednisone

💊 Aldosterone Replacement

Fludrocortisone

⚙️ Daily Management

Take medication every day as prescribed

Increase doses during illness or stress (as advised by a doctor)

Stay hydrated and maintain salt balance

Carry a medical alert card or bracelet

Keep emergency medication if prescribed

🩺 Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular doctor visits

Blood pressure and blood tests

Medication adjustments when needed

⚠️ Risks if Untreated

 

Without proper treatment, Addison’s disease can lead to:

 

Severe dehydration

Dangerous low blood pressure

Adrenal crisis (life-threatening)

🛡️ Living With Addison’s Disease

Condition can be well managed with treatment

Most people can live a full, active life

Education and awareness are key to staying safe

💡 Key Message

 

Addison’s disease is a serious but manageable condition.

With the right medication and monitoring, people can stay well—but missing treatment can be life-threatening.

Type: Hormonal disorder

 

Addison’s Disease Module 3

 

Symptoms

Extreme tiredness

Weight loss

 A5 – Addison’s Disease

🧠 Addison’s Disease – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Management

📖 What Is Addison’s Disease?

 

Addison’s disease is a rare, long-term (chronic) condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones.

 

The main missing hormones are:

 

Cortisol – helps the body respond to stress and maintain energy

Aldosterone – helps control blood pressure and salt balance

 

This condition requires lifelong treatment.

 

🔍 Causes of Addison’s Disease

🦠 Main Cause

Autoimmune disease

→ The immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands

⚙️ Other Causes

Infections (e.g. tuberculosis)

Damage to the adrenal glands (injury or surgery)

Genetic or rare conditions

⚠️ Symptoms of Addison’s Disease

 

Symptoms often develop slowly over time.

 

🟥 Common Symptoms

Extreme fatigue and weakness

Weight loss and reduced appetite

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation)

Salt cravings

🟧 Other Symptoms

Dizziness when standing

Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Muscle weakness

Irritability or low mood

🚨 Adrenal Crisis (Medical Emergency)

 

A serious complication is an Adrenal crisis.

 

🔴 Warning Signs

Severe vomiting and dehydration

Sudden, intense pain (abdomen, back, or legs)

Very low blood pressure

Confusion or loss of consciousness

 

➡️ This is a medical emergency – urgent treatment is required.

 

🩺 Diagnosis

 

Doctors may use:

 

Blood tests (to check hormone levels)

ACTH stimulation test

Imaging scans (CT or MRI)

💊 Treatment of Addison’s Disease

 

Treatment is lifelong hormone replacement therapy.

 

💊 Cortisol Replacement

Hydrocortisone

Or Prednisone

💊 Aldosterone Replacement

Fludrocortisone

⚙️ Daily Management

Take medication every day as prescribed

Increase doses during illness or stress (as advised by a doctor)

Stay hydrated and maintain salt balance

Carry a medical alert card or bracelet

Keep emergency medication if prescribed

🩺 Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular doctor visits

Blood pressure and blood tests

Medication adjustments when needed

⚠️ Risks if Untreated

 

Without proper treatment, Addison’s disease can lead to:

 

Severe dehydration

Dangerous low blood pressure

Adrenal crisis (life-threatening)

🛡️ Living With Addison’s Disease

Condition can be well managed with treatment

Most people can live a full, active life

Education and awareness are key to staying safe

💡 Key Message

 

Addison’s disease is a serious but manageable condition.

With the right medication and monitoring, people can stay well—but missing treatment can be life-threatening.

Type: Hormonal disorder

 

Addison’s Disease Module 3

 

Symptoms

Extreme tiredness

Weight loss

Low blood pressure

Darkened skin

Salt cravings

Management

Lifelong hormone replacement (hydrocortisone, fludrocortisone)

 

Chapter A4 Module 4 – Medical & Mental Health Conditions Acne

 

🧠

This chapter covers:

 

Skin conditions

Hormonal disorders

Neurodevelopmental conditions

Mental health conditions

Physical long-term illness

🅰️ A4 –

Type: Skin condition

 

Simple Explanation

 

Acne happens when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells.

 

Symptoms

Spots (pimples)

Blackheads

Whiteheads

Painful cysts

Management

Skin creams (benzoyl peroxide, retinoids)

Antibiotics

Hormonal treatment (if needed)

🧴 Acne Vulgaris – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

📖 What Is Acne Vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles (pores) become blocked with:

• Oil (sebum)
• Dead skin cells
• Bacteria

This leads to spots such as blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
It is most common in teenagers but can affect people of all ages.

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🔍 Causes of Acne Vulgaris

Acne develops due to several linked factors:

⚙️ Main Causes

• Hormonal changes
  → Increased hormones (androgens) during puberty or pregnancy
• Excess oil (sebum) production
  → Skin becomes oily and pores clog
• Clogged hair follicles
  → Dead skin cells stick together and block pores
• Bacteria (e.g. Cutibacterium acnes)
  → Causes inflammation and infection

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⚠️ Risk Factors

• Family history (genetics)
• Oily or greasy skin products
• Friction (helmets, phones, tight clothing)
• Stress (can make acne worse)
• Diet (in some cases, high sugar or dairy may trigger flare-ups)

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🟥 Symptoms of Acne

Acne can appear in different forms:

• Comedones
  • Whiteheads (closed pores)
  • Blackheads (open pores)
• Papules
  • Small, red, raised bumps
• Pustules
  • Pimples filled with pus
• Nodules and cysts
  • Large, deep, painful lumps under the skin

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💊 Treatment of Acne

Acne can be controlled with the right treatment, although it may take time.

🏠 Self-Care

• Wash skin gently (not too often)
• Use oil-free (non-comedogenic) products
• Avoid squeezing or picking spots
• Keep hair and hands away from the face

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💊 Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments

• Benzoyl peroxide
• Salicylic acid
• Adapalene

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🏥 Prescription Treatments

• Topical retinoids (stronger creams)
• Antibiotics (to reduce bacteria and inflammation)
• Hormonal treatments (for some women)

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🧪 Specialist Treatments

• Chemical peels
• Laser or light therapy
• Professional skin treatments by dermatologists

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⏳ Duration

• Acne is often a long-term (chronic) condition
• Common during teenage years
• Individual spots may last days to weeks
• Can continue into adulthood

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🛡️ Prevention and Management

• Keep skin clean but avoid over-washing
• Use gentle skincare products
• Avoid oily cosmetics
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Manage stress levels

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⚠️ When to Seek Medical Help

See a healthcare professional if:

• Acne is severe or painful
• It causes scarring
• Over-the-counter treatments do not work
• It affects your confidence or mental health

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💡 Key Message

Acne is very common and not caused by poor hygiene.
With the right care and treatment, it can be effectively managed over time.