Sleep Apnea or ADHD and support resources
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| Thu, 09-20-2012 - 5:44pm |
Hello,
Shortly after being diagnosed with ADHD we finally met with my son's psychiatrist who before really encouraging meds, wanted to rule out sleep apnea as this condition along with two primary other conditions, can mimic ADHD. My son just turned 5 last month so he's on the younger side for being diagnosed. I appreciate his doctor's thoroughness. He completed an overnight sleep study which was traumatic for him and understandably so for a young patient - enough wiring to network a small company! But, results came back and he is on the low end of the scale for sleep apnea. The sleep doctor did state that even a minor case of s. apnea can have significant impact on behavior. Next steps include another study w/ cpap machine to see if there are behavior improvements. Would like to know if anyone has had this experience. We are addressing it now as ADHD (he's hyper, very impulsive, defiant, etc. to the 10th degree!).
Which brings me to my next question - we are now seeing a psychologist since he's not on meds and he's going to start going regularly to play therapy. With this new development we are waiting to pursue anything further with regards to medication. His Kinder teacher says that he definitely has a hard time staying focused and he's high energy but he tries very hard - he's very eager to please.
We don't have a CHADD chapter locally although the National conference is coming to SF and I just may go - I live nearby and could use all of the support I can get. While parenting classes are great - we've been there done that in the beginning - I feel like we are really good parents! I don't need skill building necessarly although always open to ideas, thoughts, etc. - I just want to share, commisserate and connect with other parents in our same situation. Where have you found a support network? Have you started your own? There are days that I feel very isolated with a child with these needs plus a two year old, exhausted working full time and my husband doesn't get home from work until much later so dealing with the chaos that ensues after we get home is making me crazy!
Sorry for the rant..
If you are looking for a playgroup type of support, you could ask at your pediatrician's office. They might know of some parents that are looking for the same type of support. You could also ask at your school, I'm sure there are other boys that are similar in behavior to your son.
Melissa
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Thanks Melissa - the school is a great idea! I actually did ask our pediatrician as well as the psychologist and both just referred me to a group parenting class. There is an organization in a neighboring town that supposedly connects parents but I haven't called yet as they are 45 minutes away - but think I will get in touch soon.
Thank you!
I understand and feel your sentiments. But, you know we also have to understand the shortcomings of our children and be there for them to the best of our abilities and unwavering understanding. However, scientific research has found out that Music Therapy can help children improve classroom learning, develop self-discipline and exhibit pleasant behavior. It won't hurt if you will try it at home. Sometimes, the more practical approach is a better solution to our problems.
http://music.sound-add-adhd-treatment.com/music-therapy-classroom-learning-strategy-children-adhd/