ADHD Glossary of Terms

Acanthosis nigricans is a condition where areas of skin become dark, thick, and velvety, usually in places like the armpits, groin, and neck. It's often seen in people who are overweight. This condition can be caused by things that change hormone levels, like Cushing's syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, or having a low-functioning thyroid. It can also be caused by taking certain medicines, such as steroids or hormone treatments.

Accommodations relate to changes to the learning environment curriculum to better serve any  children with special needs or learning differences. Accommodations can include test presentations, extended time, different testing locations, and variations in how the material is presented and/or taught to students. It is important to differentiate the term "accommodation" in the context of ADHD from the same term in the context of vision. In some cases, one of the contributing factors to ADHD can be problems with visual accommodation. This relates to the difficulty that people may have with reading close-up material. It can potentially lead to difficulties in the classroom environment that can be confused with ADHD.

Acne is a common skin issue that occurs when hair follicles get blocked. This happens when oil, called sebum, and dead skin cells clog the pores, leading to pimples or zits. Acne related to PCOS is caused by the hormonal changes in the condition.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is an outdated term that applies to the form of ADHD now known as Predominantly Inattentive. Some countries still use the term to identify adults with symptoms like excessive difficulties with concentration without the presence of other ADHD symptoms such as excessive impulsiveness or hyperactivity. However, in most cases, there are no clear distinctions between ADD and ADHD, and the latter term has become more generally used. The 5th edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) does not list ADD as a recognized disorder.

ADHD is an abbreviation of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. As defined in 5th version of the American Psychiatry Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), there are three main types of behavior in people with ADHD:

• ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive (ADHD-PI).
• ADHD-Predominantly Impulsive (ADHD PH).
• ADHD-Combined Type (ADHD-C).

A diagnosis of any of these forms of ADHD is based on the presence of multiple and persistent symptoms for at least six months. The symptoms must be present and have caused difficulties in multiple environments. For example, the symptoms must occur both at home and at school.

Symptoms of ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive

The main symptoms of ADHD-PI (ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive) are:

• Failure to pay close attention to details or careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or other activities.
• Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
• Not seeming to listen when spoken to directly.
• Not following instructions and failing to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.
• Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
• Avoiding, disliking, or reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
• Frequently losing or misplacing things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g., school materials, pencils, books, tools).
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
• Often forgetful in daily activities.

A child up to age 16 must display six or more of the listed inattentive symptoms persisting for at least six months to be diagnosed with this condition. People 17 and older must show five or more of these symptoms persisting for at least six months.

Symptoms of ADHD-Predominantly Impulsive

The main symptoms of ADHD PH (ADHD-Predominantly Impulsive) are:

• Constant fidgeting
• Keeps tapping hands or feet
• Is unable to wait their turn
• Interrupts others while they’re talking
• Intrudes on other people’s games
• Blurts out answers
• Talks excessively
• Takes unnecessary risks
• Is unable to remain seated in situations where it's expected, such as classrooms, libraries, and other communal environments
• Is constantly on the move for no reason

A child up to age 16 must display six or more of the listed inattentive symptoms persisting for at least six months to be diagnosed with this condition. People 17 and older must show five or more of these symptoms persisting for at least six months.

Symptoms of ADHD-Combined Type (ADHD-C)

For a diagnosis of the Combined Presentation, individuals must meet both the criteria for ADHD-PI and ADHD-PH. There is a range of different behaviors that at times appear to be inattention but at other times will show up as hyperactivity and impulsivity. This diagnosis can only follow if sufficient symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity were present for the past six months.

• Children under 16 must display six or more of the listed hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. People 17 and older must display five or more of these symptoms.
• Children under 16 must display six or more of the listed inattention symptoms. People 17 and older must display five or more of these symptoms.

Causes of ADHD

Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. There is evidence that genetics may be a contributory factor since relatives of individuals with ADHD are often also affected. There is also evidence of anatomical differences in the brains of children with ADHD in comparison to other children without the condition. Whether this is related to a cause or effect of ADHD has not yet been established. Several non-genetic factors have also been linked to the disorder, such as low birth weight or premature birth, exposure in the womb to alcohol, nicotine, and toxic chemicals, and extreme maternal stress during pregnancy.

An ADHD coach is a trained professional who can assist people with ADHD by teaching effective strategies that can help them address the challenges of ADHD in day-to-day living. This requires developing structured programs, teaching skills, and planning strategies to enable the person with ADHD to tackle the tasks or goals that are made more difficult by ADHD symptoms. The role of the ADHD coach may include:

• Teaching time management, record keeping, setting priorities, and organizing activities at home and in the schoolroom or workspace.
• Guiding how to set goals, solve problems, maintain motivation, and persist through completion.
• Boosting emotions such as self-esteem and self-confidence, improving impulse control, and coping with stress.
• Helping to nurture communication skills and relationships with friends, family, schoolmates, and colleagues.

An ADHD coach may also work in combination with other specialists who are using other treatment methods, such as medication, diet, occupational therapy and any other therapies.

ADHD-Not Otherwise Specified (NOS) was used in earlier editions of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-1 through DSM-4) to denote conditions that don't meet the full criteria for any specific disorder within a particular category. However, the NOS designation was largely replaced in DSM-V with other terms that aim to be more descriptive.

Alopecia areata is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss. It can happen anywhere on the body but is most often seen on the scalp. The term "alopecia" refers to hair loss or baldness, while "areata" indicates that the hair loss happens in small, random patches.

Alopecia totalis is a condition where someone loses all the hair on their scalp. It's a more severe form of alopecia areata. While most people with alopecia areata only lose patches of hair, those with alopecia totalis experience complete scalp hair loss.

Alopecia universalis is a condition where a person loses all the hair on their scalp and body. It is a severe type of alopecia areata. While the exact cause of alopecia universalis isn't known, it's believed to be an autoimmune disorder. This means the immune system, which usually protects the body, mistakenly attacks the hair follicles instead.

Amenorrhea is when a female of reproductive age doesn't have her period. It's normal to not have periods during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Besides the reproductive years, women don't have periods in childhood and after menopause. Many women with PCOS either don't get their periods or have irregular cycles, known as oligomenorrhea.

Anagen effluvium is when hair suddenly falls out because the hair is in its growing phase. This happens when something disrupts the normal activity of hair follicles. It can be caused by chemotherapy, radiation, exposure to toxic chemicals, or certain diseases like alopecia areata and pemphigus. While hair usually regrows after one to three months, in some cases, this hair loss can be permanent.

Hair growth happens in stages, starting with the anagen phase. This is the longest phase, lasting anywhere from three to five years for the hair on the head. Different types of hair have different anagen phases. During the anagen phase, hair follicles produce hairs that grow until they're cut or naturally fall out when their lifespan ends. About 90% of the hair on our heads is in the anagen phase at any given time.

Androgenetic alopecia is a common genetic condition that causes hair loss in both men and women. This happens because of a strong reaction to androgens, which are hormones in the body. About 50% of men and women experience this condition, often starting any time after puberty. In men, hair loss usually occurs at the top and front sides of the head. For women, the front hairline is generally unaffected, but hair thinning happens on the top and crown of the head, often creating a wider part of the hair.

Androgens are hormones made by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Testosterone is one type of androgen. In females with PCOS, androgen levels can rise due to high LH levels and more insulin.

Anovulation happens when the ovaries don't release an egg during a menstrual cycle, so ovulation doesn't occur. But, a woman who doesn't ovulate every cycle isn't necessarily in menopause. Ongoing anovulation is a common reason for infertility.

Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is made by cells in the ovaries. It is an indicator of how many eggs a female has left, or their ovarian reserve. If a woman has low AMH levels, it means they might have fewer eggs, which can affect their ability to have children.

Anxiety is not in itself a disorder. It can be a normal reaction to stress. Controlled levels of anxiety can, in many cases, be beneficial by alerting people to dangers and helping them to pay attention and prepare.  On the other hand, anxiety disorders involve excessive levels of fear or anxiety, above any normal feelings of anxiousness or nervousness. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders, affecting nearly one in three adults at some point. Anxiety disorders can be treated with psychotherapeutic treatments, medications, or some combination. There is a difference between anxiety and fear. Anxiety refers to an anticipation of a future concern and is more likely to induce avoidance behavior. Fear is an emotional response to an immediate threat and is more likely to induce the “fight or flight” response. There are several types of anxiety disorders (shown by the levels of incidence in the US population): 

• generalized anxiety disorder (3%)
• Agoraphobia (1-2%)
• panic disorder (2-3%)
• specific phobias (8-12% )
• social anxiety disorder (7%)
• separation anxiety disorder (4% for children)
• selective mutism (1-2%).

Women are more likely than men to experience anxiety disorders. ADHD and anxiety disorders have a complex relationship. Anxiety and ADHD affect each other, and one disorder may cause another. Anxiety alone is not included in the diagnostic criterion for ADHD; however, the link between the two conditions is strong. Individuals with ADHD are more likely to have an anxiety disorder than individuals without the condition, with the rate of coincidences approaching 50%.

Aromatase inhibitors stop the enzyme aromatase from changing androgens into estrogen in the body. These inhibitors help trigger ovulation. Letrozole, a type of aromatase inhibitor, seems to increase live birth and pregnancy rates in women with PCOS who aren't ovulating.

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) involves any fertility treatments that deal with eggs or embryos. Typically, these procedures include taking eggs from a woman's ovaries, mixing them with sperm in a lab, and then placing them back into the woman's body or donating them to someone else.

Attentional bias is a psychological phenomenon that explains a person’s tendency to pay more attention to some stimuli than others. This bias can significantly influence people’s perceptions and actions since they are more likely to be influenced by what they focus on most. Attentional bias and ADHD are distinct concepts within the fields of psychology and neuroscience, but they have a significant degree of correlation. Individuals with ADHD may exhibit attentional biases, but these are not the cause of the disorder but rather a feature of how their attention has become dysregulated. For example, a child with ADHD might display an attentional bias toward immediately rewarding stimuli such as video games or exciting activities over non-stimulating, sustained tasks like homework or chores. This tendency isn't the same as an innate bias where a person’s perception is unconsciously directed by their interests and past experiences. Examples of the relationship between ADHD and attentional bias include:

• Selective attention, meaning people with ADHD have difficulty filtering out irrelevant stimuli. This can resemble an attentional bias because it focuses on certain stimuli over others. Still, it is due to the ADHD individual's difficulties in attention control rather than the emotional or cognitive influences that typically cause attentional biases.
• Salience of stimuli refers to how much a piece of information stands out and captures a person’s attention. In ADHD, stimuli that are more salient because they are rewarding or novel can create a kind of attentional bias because the ADHD brain is particularly responsive to these stimuli.
• Deficits in executive function include challenges with planning, control of inhibitions, and working memory. 
• Emotional dysregulation can occur when individuals with ADHD also experience emotional dysregulation, which can influence attentional bias. For example, if a student with ADHD and co-occurring emotional regulation difficulties is anxious, an attentional bias toward threat-related stimuli can make it even harder for them to focus on studying.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system becomes too active and mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Typically, the immune system produces antibodies to protect our bodies from harmful things like viruses and toxins. However, in autoimmune disorders, it can't tell the difference between harmful invaders and healthy cells. There are over 100 types of autoimmune diseases. The exact causes or triggers are not fully understood. Treatments generally aim to reduce the activity of the immune system.

Bariatric surgery can help women with PCOS lose weight. This type of surgery includes methods like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, gastric band, and duodenal switch. These surgeries are effective for treating severe obesity and can also improve metabolism, such as controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

A Behavioral Contract (sometimes also known as a Behavior Contract) is an agreement between a person with authority over a child (usually a teacher, parent, or guardian) and the child him or herself. 

• It should set out in clear terms all expectations for the child’s behavior with regard to any specific behaviors that the child struggles with and which are meant to change. 
• It should focus on what behaviors should be performed rather than what is to be avoided.
• It must outline step-by-step goals that can be used to measure rewarding achievements and the consequences of not meeting goals.
• It should define the time frame during which the contract is valid and when it will be reviewed.
• It is necessary for both the person in authority and the child to formally agree, preferably in a signed agreement that indicates their clear understanding of the terms.

A behavioral contract could be helpful for children with ADHD if they have any of the fundamental issues of inattention or hyperactivity. A behavior contract may work well for children struggling with organization and completing work.

Behavioral Modification and Behavior Therapy are types of behavior therapy that can be applied in treating ADHD. They are both based on the principles of behaviorism, a field of psychology that was significantly influenced by the work of B.F. Skinner. It uses principles of operant conditioning to change behavior, which is focused on increasing desired behaviors and decreasing undesired ones through consistent reinforcement and punishment strategies. The techniques of modern behavior therapy have evolved beyond those Skinner specifically developed to include a range of new and different techniques.   The essential features of Behavioral Modification applicable to ADHD are:

• A focused approach centered on the specific alteration of behavior through reinforcement and punishment.
• Consistent and structured behavioral modification programs that emphasize consistent routines and clear expectations to help manage ADHD symptoms.
• Focus on observable and measurable behaviors rather than on underlying thoughts or feelings.
• Use reward systems such as points or tokens to encourage good behavior and penalties or loss of privileges to discourage undesirable behavior.
• Involving parents and teachers after they are trained to use behavioral modification techniques to provide a consistent approach across different environments.

  The essential features of Behavior Therapy applicable to ADHD are:

• A holistic approach that takes into account a range of psychological principles. It may also integrate strategies from other therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help manage ADHD symptoms.
• Skill development that focuses on developing executive functions like time management, organization, and planning skills.
• Learning coping strategies that help individuals cope with symptoms of ADHD, such as dealing with impulsivity or inattention.
• Personalizing the therapy to the individual's symptoms, age, developmental level, and co-occurring conditions.

  Both behavior therapy and behavioral modification can be effective in treating ADHD. They can help reduce disruptive behavior, improve organizational skills, and boost social functioning. The choice between them, or a combination of both, usually depends on the specific needs of the individual with ADHD, the settings in which they are struggling, and the presence of any co-existing conditions. It is usually a part of a multi-modal treatment plan, including medication, educational support, and accommodations. The approach is usually tailored to the individual, and the effectiveness of these treatments can vary from person to person.

A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is a structured plan that is designed to address specific behavioral issues in people diagnosed with ADHD. It is derived from a Functional Behavior Assessment that identifies the reasons for the behavior. It then uses this information to outline strategies and interventions to address the problematic behavior. This plan is typically more detailed than a Behavioral  Contract and is individualized based on the person's specific needs. A BIP is more comprehensive and tailored to individual needs than a Behavioral Contract, a simpler agreement between the individual and a specific authority figure.  A BIP typically involves a team of professionals, and it is typically more detailed and individualized based on the specific needs of the person with ADHD. A BIP typically includes:

• A clear, observable, and measurable description of the problematic behaviors.
• An identification of what is triggering the behavior and an analysis of what the individual gains from it.
• Proposed interventions include tailored strategies that include environmental changes, teaching new skills to replace the problematic behavior, positive reinforcement, and identifying the possible consequences of negative behavior.
• Setting out measurable goals that the interventions aim to achieve.

Biotin is an important B vitamin for our health and is found naturally in some foods. It can also be taken as a supplement. Foods like organ meats, eggs, fish, meat, seeds, nuts, and certain vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, are rich in biotin. Biotin deficiency is rare, and it is highly unusual to see severe deficiency in healthy people who eat a normal diet. Symptoms of biotin deficiency usually appear slowly and may include thinning hair, which can eventually lead to losing all body hair.

Body mass index (BMI) is a way to check if someone has a healthy weight for their height. Doctors find BMI by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared. It helps estimate how much body fat a person might have.

The catagen phase begins when the anagen phase ends and usually lasts around ten days. During this time, hair follicles get smaller, and hair growth slows down. Even though the hair separates from the base of the follicle, it stays in place during its last days of growth. At any moment, about five percent of the hairs on our heads are in the catagen phase.

CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ) is a not-for-profit organization that provides education, advocacy, and support for individuals with ADHD and their families. CHADD was founded in 1987 at a time when many clinicians and educators knew little about ADHD and mistakenly labeled people with ADHD as having behavioral problems, being unmotivated, or, worst of all, being of lower intelligence.  At that time, very few places could provide support or information. Thanks in part to the continued work of CHADD, under the Americans with Disabilities Act, children today with ADHD are eligible for special education services within the regular classroom when needed, and adults may be eligible for accommodations in the workplace. CHADD runs the National Resource Center on ADHD (NRC). This provides science-based information on ADHD for the parents or caregivers of children and teens with ADHD, for adults with ADHD, and for health care and education professionals who work with them.  The Federal government partially funds it to provide information about the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and health and well-being issues for people with ADHD and their families.

A Child Behavior Checklist is one component of the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA), a methodology that is used to detect behavioral and emotional problems in children and adolescents. ASEBA collects and correlates information from three separate sources:

• The Child Behavior Checklist, which parents complete. 
• The Teacher’s Report Form (TRF), which teachers complete
• The Youth Self-Report (YSR), is completed by the child or adolescent him or herself. 

Scarring alopecia is a type of hair loss that happens when hair follicles are damaged. This damage is often caused by inflammation or autoimmune disorders but can also result from skin injuries, burns, or specific medical treatments. Once the hair follicle is destroyed, the hair cannot grow back, making the hair loss permanent.

Classroom Behavior Management describes the guidelines teachers should apply to create an optimal learning environment to encourage positive behavior and academic engagement by their students while minimizing disruptions. 

The primary components of Classroom Behavior Management are: 

1. Students must understand the basic requirements for classroom etiquette.
2. Students must understand that rules apply uniformly to everyone
3. Students must understand that consequences will flow if they don’t follow the rules. 

In return, teachers serve as role models for their students, behaving respectfully, courteously, and enthusiastically. A classroom that includes both students with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and those without may need specialized Classroom Behavior Management techniques. ADHD children may require different forms or frequencies of rule monitoring and reinforcement compared to their peers.

A Clinical Trial (or Research Study) is a controlled, multi-phase process that evaluates the safety, efficacy, and effectiveness of a new intervention, treatment, or approach that addresses a medical condition or disorder. In broad terms, a trial would follow these phases:

• Phase 1: The objective is to establish the initial feasibility and refine the protocols.
• Phase 2: The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention and further refine the methods.
• Phase 3: The objective is to confirm the long-term effectiveness and applicability of the intervention in a diverse population.
• Phase 4: After completing phases 1-3, the objective is to monitor the continued effectiveness and gather data on real-world applications post-intervention.

Clomiphene, also known as clomiphene citrate, is a medication approved by the FDA that helps with certain types of infertility by stimulating ovulation, which is the release of eggs from the ovaries. It is used by people trying to become pregnant.

If a person is diagnosed as having more than one condition or illness at the same time, these are called Co-Existing Conditions. Other terms used include Comorbidity, dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorders. These terms all mean the same thing. Some children diagnosed with ADHD may also be diagnosed as having other disorders as well, such as anxiety, depression, behavior or conduct problems, or learning disorders. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that about half of all children with ADHD have a behavior or conduct problem, and about one-third have anxiety.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that aims to change negative patterns of thinking that a patient feels about him or herself, abilities, and future. It is a useful short-term approach for addressing ADHD in adults with mood disorders or who suffer from anxiety and other emotional problems. CBT is based on cognitive restructuring, which is the recognition that thinking patterns can lead to emotional difficulties. Cognitions (automatic thoughts) are spontaneous interpretations of events and are susceptible to distortion, leading to unhealthy internal dialogs. These can prevent an individual from working toward intended goals, developing productive new habits, or taking calculated risks. An individual with ADHD can internalize an expectation of unachievable standards (“if it’s not perfect, it’s failed”) or of failure (“I can never get this to work.”) CBT seeks to challenge those cognitions and change the distortions. The resulting change in behavior patterns can be effective in treating the comorbid triggers that caused ADHD in the first place.

Cognitive Restructuring is an element of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It is a process in which negative thinking patterns are identified as irrational thoughts and replaced with rational ones. It can be a component of a treatment plan for ADHD and is especially useful for those with comorbid conditions such as depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem.

There is no single diagnostically definitive test for ADHD. It is also a condition with a high rate of comorbidity. Diagnosis of the condition involves a wide range of tests. A comprehensive assessment is needed to determine whether the subject has ADHD, another disorder, or a combination. The assessments must be comprehensive and involve investigating organic conditions, functional disorders, developmental status, and environmental and family relationships. A clinical interview with the child and family by a professional with specialized skills in assessment is one of the main aspects of the process. It should also incorporate a comprehensive medical examination and a review of the person’s medical history. The assessor may also require psychological tests and a school-related evaluation. None of the tests is definitive. Rating scales and measures have been developed to aid in the systematic, standardized assessment of the various elements that go into defining ADHD. These are listed in the 5th edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V)

Conduct disorder is a type of behavior characterized by severe antisocial and aggressive behavior that frequently co-occurs with ADHD. It most often manifests in children and adolescents and is twice as prevalent in males as in females. Typical behaviors displayed include destroying property, picking fights, and mistreating animals. The 5th Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) defines conduct disorder as “A repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in which basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules are violated.” Conduct Disorder is associated with functional abnormalities and neurocognitive impairments in the areas of the brain that are responsible for emotion processing and regulation and reinforcement-based decision-making.

Corticosteroids are medicines that have multiple effects on the body, allowing them to treat different health issues. They can lower inflammation, calm an overactive immune system, and help with hormone problems. These drugs work quickly, making them great for dealing with sudden and severe symptoms like allergies.

Corticosteroids, often called steroids, are drugs that reduce inflammation. Taking a small dose of glucocorticoids can help with excessive hair growth in women who have congenital adrenal hyperplasia. But, it's unclear if it helps hair growth caused by other reasons. For women with PCOS, using glucocorticoids for a long time isn't recommended unless they have a lot of adrenal androgens.

The crown refers to the area on the top of our heads. It includes the area behind the hairline, in the middle, between the head's sides, and above the bump called the occipital bone. Crown thinning happens when someone notices their hair becoming thinner in this specific area.

Cysts are unusual pockets of fluid that can appear in any part of the body. In the case of PCOS, numerous small fluid-filled sacs form on the outer edge of the ovary, and these are known as cysts.

Dandruff is a condition that primarily affects the scalp and causes flaking and sometimes mild itchiness. The exact cause of dandruff isn't known, but it's thought to be linked to both genetic and environmental factors, and it might get worse in the winter. Dandruff isn't related to poor hygiene; instead, it involves the rapid growth of skin cells. Doctors diagnose it based on the symptoms.

A child with ADHD can benefit from in-school behavior management programs. The Daily Behavior Report Card is a way for teachers and supervisors to communicate their evaluation of the child’s behavior in school with the child's parents or guardians. The parent/guardian can then reinforce the behavior management program by giving or taking away rewards in the home environment. There are a variety of different formats. In one of the most common, a child starts each day with a clean card, with a block corresponding to each teaching period. The teacher then fills in a number rating that reflects the child’s behavior in that time slot. Another format starts each day with a statement of goals composed by the child himself or herself. The teacher then evaluates the degree that reflects how well the goal was achieved.

A dermatologist is a doctor who focuses on identifying and treating skin problems. They are experts in understanding various skin conditions and helping people maintain healthy skin.

DHEAS stands for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. It's mostly produced in the adrenal glands, which are small glands above the kidneys. A DHEAS test checks the level of this hormone, which the body can turn into estrogen and testosterone. High levels might suggest an adrenal tumor or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while low levels could suggest Addison's disease.

Diffuse thinning happens when hair all over the scalp starts to thin out or fall out. This is often due to a condition called telogen effluvium, which occurs when a large number of hair follicles on the scalp suddenly move into their resting phase.

Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, is a natural hormone that plays a key role in the development and maintenance of the prostate and penis, as well as in producing skin oils and body hair. However, when DHT levels are too high, it can affect the hair by making the hair follicles smaller and shortening the time hair grows, leading to hair loss.

Distractibility is a core and characteristic symptom of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It can significantly impact a person's performance and behavior in the classroom, at work, at home, and in social interactions with peers. Distractibility is more predominant in people who exhibit symptoms of attention deficit, but it can also influence the behavior patterns of people with hyperactivity disorder.  The most common symptoms of distractibility are:

1. Difficulty controlling attention. Finding it challenging to sustain focus in tasks that require prolonged mental effort. 
2. Easily sidetracked by extraneous stimuli, often switching from one activity to another, a significant barrier to sustained focus and concentration. 
3. An inability to stay still, talk excessively, and display disruptive behaviors in structured environments like classrooms or offices. 

Distractibility complicates the ability of a person who displays symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity to focus. This may be due to both attentional deficits and the internal restlessness that stems from hyperactivity. It isn't limited to just one or the other but can be influenced by both attentional deficits and hyperactivity and acts as a bridge between them.

Distractibility is a core and characteristic symptom of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It can significantly impact a person's performance and behavior in the classroom, at work, at home, and in social interactions with peers. Distractibility is more predominant in people who exhibit symptoms of attention deficit, but it can also influence the behavior patterns of people with hyperactivity disorder. 

The most common symptoms of distractibility are:

1. Difficulty controlling attention. Finding it challenging to sustain focus in tasks that require prolonged mental effort. 
2. Easily sidetracked by extraneous stimuli, often switching from one activity to another, a significant barrier to sustained focus and concentration. 
3. An inability to stay still, talk excessively, and display disruptive behaviors in structured environments like classrooms or offices. 

Distractibility complicates the ability of a person who displays symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity to focus. This may be due to both attentional deficits and the internal restlessness that stems from hyperactivity. It isn't limited to just one or the other but can be influenced by both attentional deficits and hyperactivity and acts as a bridge between them.

The fifth version of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) was released in 2013.

Dyslexia is one of the Specific Learning disabilities.  People with dyslexia have trouble recognizing and pronouncing words when they are seen in print. It is believed to be caused by a breakdown in communications between different areas in the brain, sometimes called phonemic awareness. The exact causes of dyslexia are not yet known. In a fully functional person, specific (multiple) brain regions are involved when they’re reading. For people with dyslexia, different brain areas and neural pathways are active when reading. There is a high degree of comorbidity between dyslexia and ADHD. People with ADHD may also exhibit symptoms similar to dyslexia without actually having the same disorder. People with dyslexia or ADHD can be dysfluent readers. They leave out parts of what they are reading, skip words, and lose their place.

Dyslipidemia means having abnormal fat levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of heart diseases. When these fat levels aren't balanced, whether because of genetics or lifestyle, it can cause clogged arteries and other heart problems. It's a common issue in people with PCOS.

Menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea, affects over half of menstruating women, causing discomfort for a few days a month. Typically, this pain is mild, but for some, it's intense enough to disrupt daily activities for several days. People with PCOS often experience more frequent dysmenorrhea.

An endocrinologist is a doctor who helps people with issues related to glands and hormones. A reproductive endocrinologist can help treat PCOS.

Endometrial cancer starts in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It happens when cells grow abnormally and can spread to other parts of the body. The first sign is usually unexpected vaginal bleeding that's not part of a normal period. People with PCOS are up to five times more likely to get endometrial cancer than those without PCOS.

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition where the lining of the uterus becomes too thick, which can sometimes lead to cancer. This can cause discomfort for women, with symptoms like heavy periods, bleeding after menopause, and anemia because of too much bleeding. Women with PCOS may be more likely to get endometrial hyperplasia.

Estrogen is a hormone linked to female reproductive organs and helps develop female traits. It is also known as estrone, estradiol, and estriol.

Executive function refers to the mental skills that help people manage daily tasks and plan for the future. In people with ADHD, difficulties in executive function can cause difficulty in organizing tasks, managing time, controlling impulses, and setting goals. Children with ADHD might struggle with tasks that require planning, focusing, and remembering instructions.

The exogen stage of hair loss is when hairs fall out as new ones grow. This happens when the anagen phase starts over. About 100 to 150 hairs normally fall out each day, but the exact number can differ for each person.

There are three main types of fertility treatments: medications, surgeries, and techniques to help conception, like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Common fertility medications include clomifene, which helps women release an egg each month if they have trouble ovulating, and tamoxifen, which is used if there are ovulation issues. Metformin is helpful for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Gonadotrophins help women ovulate and can also boost fertility in men. Other medicines like gonadotrophin-releasing hormone and dopamine agonists are also used to encourage ovulation in women.

Finasteride is a medication often used for treating hair loss in men, known as androgenic alopecia, and for easing symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Finasteride works by blocking an enzyme that converts testosterone into a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By reducing DHT, finasteride helps shrink the prostate, making urination easier and slowing hair loss in men. Finasteride is available under brand names like Propecia and Proscar.

A hair follicle is a tube-like structure in the skin's outer layer, where hair begins to grow. The hair root, made of protein cells, gets nutrients from nearby blood vessels. As new cells form, the hair pushes through the skin and becomes visible.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is made and released by the pituitary gland. It helps with sexual development and reproduction by influencing how ovaries and testicles work. Even though it's called "follicle-stimulating," it doesn't actually impact your hair follicles or hair growth.

FAPE is a legal term from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the U.S. It ensures that children with disabilities, including ADHD, have the right to an education tailored to their needs at no cost to the family. FAPE aims to provide educational services that enable children to make meaningful educational progress. FAPE also plays a role in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. IDEA has specific criteria for eligibility based on certain categories of disabilities and requires that the disability affects the child’s educational performance. Under IDEA, students receive an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), which is a detailed document outlining the special education services and supports the student will receive.

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) causes hair loss at the front and sides of the scalp. It can also affect hair in other areas, like the eyebrows. FFA typically gets worse over time, but healthcare providers have treatments available to help slow its progression.

A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a critical process used to understand the type, purpose, and factors contributing to certain behaviors, particularly those that are disruptive or harmful. This process is essential in creating an effective Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) for individuals with ADHD or other behavioral concerns. An FBA is comprehensive and involves several detailed steps to ensure that interventions are precisely tailored to the individual's needs. In many educational settings in the United States, FBAs may be mandated by law for students with disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviors, and they must be conducted by qualified personnel that may include teachers, behavior specialists, psychologists, and family members, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the individual's behavior. The process is not static; it requires ongoing assessment and modification of the BIP as the individual's behavior and circumstances change. The key components of a Functional Behavior Assessment are:

• Pinpointing the specific problematic behaviors.
• Gathering information by interviewing the individual, parents, teachers, or caregivers.
• Determining the function of the problematic behavior.
• Analyzing what happens before (antecedents) and after (consequences) the behavior occurs. 

  Based on the gathered information, hypotheses about why the behaviors are occurring are formed, and these educated guesses are tested and refined. They can lead to the development of strategies to address the behaviors. Using the insights from the FBA, a Behavior Support Plan (which includes the BIP) is developed. This plan will include strategies and supports tailored to the individual's needs, focusing on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors.

Functional impairment difficulties is a term describing some of the challenges that children with ADHD face in their daily lives due to the symptoms that they experience coming from the disorder. This can include struggles in academic performance, maintaining social relationships, and managing daily routines. Functional impairment can vary widely among individuals with ADHD.

Genetic predisposition means having a higher likelihood of getting a specific disease because of your genes. This tendency, also known as genetic susceptibility, is often inherited from family members. However, it can also occur due to a sudden change in your genes.

The glucose tolerance test checks how the body handles sugar. Women with PCOS should be tested for problems with sugar metabolism. Their weight, age, and high levels of male hormones can lead to more serious metabolism issues.

The glycemic index (GI) is a number that shows how much certain foods raise your blood sugar. Foods are labeled as low, medium, or high GI and are scored from 0 to 100. A lower GI number means the food has less impact on your blood sugar. People with PCOS might be advised to follow a low GI diet.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hormone that helps trigger the release of other hormones, like follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, from the pituitary gland. It is made by special neurons in the hypothalamus. When someone has PCOS, their GnRH levels change more often than usual.

Gonadotropins are important for your reproductive health, helping your sex glands to grow and work properly. In people with female sex organs, these glands are the ovaries, and in those with make sex organs, they are the testicles.

Hair density refers to how many strands grow per square inch on the scalp. Hair density can be checked by looking at the scalp or feeling how thick a ponytail is.

Hair follicle miniaturization happens when the hair follicle becomes smaller, making it difficult for hair to grow. When this occurs, follicles that once produced strong, healthy hair begin to create thinner, weaker hairs that easily fall out. This process can lead to a receding hairline and balding. Miniaturization of hair can be caused by factors such as genetics, aging, and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), or a mix of all three.

There are various hair loss treatments available, including hair transplants, laser therapy, medications like minoxidil and finasteride, and natural supplements. To effectively treat hair loss, it's important to first determine its cause.

Hair consists of two main parts: the hair shaft and the hair root. The shaft is the part that can be seen above the skin's surface. Below the surface lies the hair root, which goes deeper into the skin. This root is encased in the hair follicle, a protective layer made up of skin and connective tissue.

A hair transplant is a medical procedure where a surgeon relocates hair to a bald spot on the head. Usually, the surgeon takes hair from the back or sides of the head and places it on the front or top. This process is done in a medical office using local anesthesia to numb the area.

Products made from plants that help treat illnesses or keep you healthy are known as herbal or botanical products, or phytomedicines. If a plant-based product is meant to be taken internally, it's called an herbal supplement.

HDL, or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is often called "good" cholesterol. It grabs cholesterol in the blood and takes it back to the liver. The liver then removes it from the body. Having high levels of HDL cholesterol can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Hirsutism is when women grow extra hair in areas where men typically do, like the face and body, after puberty. This includes places like the mustache and beard areas, the pubic region, buttocks, and thighs. It often happens in people with PCOS.

Hormones are chemical messengers made by glands in the endocrine system and sent into the bloodstream. An imbalance happens when the levels of these hormones are too high or too low.

A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of certain hormones, which are chemicals that help your body function. In PCOS, the ovaries make high levels of hormones called androgens, leading to an imbalance in reproductive hormones.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment for menopause symptoms. It adds back the hormones estrogen and progesterone that drop during menopause. Using a combination of estrogen and progestin is also a common way to treat hirsutism and acne in people with PCOS.

In people with ADHD, hyperactivity describes behavior beyond the typical energy levels. It is a persistent pattern of excessive physical activity often inappropriate for the situation. Children with hyperactivity frequently squirm in their seats, tap their hands or feet, or leave their seats when they are expected to stay seated and be quiet. In older children and adults, hyperactivity may manifest as restlessness or difficulty engaging quietly in routine activities. Hyperactivity can be disruptive in many social settings, including school, play and social environments, impacting the person's ability to participate in focused activities and interact calmly with others. Hyperactivity is linked to the neurological aspects of ADHD, involving brain regions and pathways that regulate activity and movement.

Hyperandrogenism is when a woman has too much of the male hormones like testosterone, androsterone, and androstenedione. These extra hormones affect a woman's body and are a sign of PCOS.

Hyperfocus is a failure in the ability to shift focus when appropriate. Hyperfocus is an aspect of behavior people with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may exhibit. It manifests as an intense form of concentration, where the person becomes so deeply engrossed in a task that it leads to the exclusion of everything else around them. It is primarily associated with the inattentive (attention-deficit) aspect of the disorder rather than the hyperactive-impulsive aspects of ADHD.  Hyperfocus is an attentional phenomenon. People in a state of hyperfocus can become so engrossed in what they're doing that they lose track of time and become oblivious to the world around them. It is different than attention deficit, which is an inability to focus. People with ADHD may hyperfocus on activities that are intrinsically rewarding or stimulating but not necessarily tasks that are in line with their long-term goals or responsibilities. This behavior reflects the disorder's impact on the brain's reward system.

Hyperinsulinemia means having too much insulin in the blood. It's not the same as diabetes, but it’s often linked to type 2 diabetes. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. Hyperinsulinemia also plays a role in many cases of PCOS.

Hyperlipidemia means having high levels of fats or fat-carrying proteins in the blood. It describes both the test result and the different conditions that can cause it. Women with PCOS often have a type of fat imbalance called dyslipidemia, which includes low HDL ("good" cholesterol) and high triglycerides, as well as high LDL and non-HDL cholesterol. These issues are usually more severe in women with PCOS.

Hypoglycemia happens when your blood sugar level is lower than normal. Besides having symptoms like irregular periods and too much testosterone, many women with PCOS say they also feel symptoms that they think are due to low blood sugar.

The hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis is a system that manages female reproduction. If the HPO axis doesn't work properly, it can cause ovulation problems, which the World Health Organization (WHO) divides into three groups. Group I includes disorders where the hypothalamus doesn't work well called hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Group II includes disorders with normal hormone levels but are linked to various hormone-related issues. Group III includes disorders with high hormone levels due to reduced ovarian function.

Impulsivity in ADHD is characterized by hasty actions without proper planning and  forethought, often in situations where consideration of potential consequences would be expected. This can manifest in various ways, such as blurting out answers without waiting for a question to be completed, interrupting others' conversations, or engaging in risky behaviors without considering the dangers. Impulsivity can also appear in decision-making, where individuals with ADHD may make quick decisions without fully considering all aspects or potential outcomes. This symptom is closely linked to challenges in self-regulation, a key component of executive function, which is often impaired in individuals with ADHD. Impulsivity can significantly impact social interactions and learning processes, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and difficulties following structured learning or working protocols.

Inattention is a symptom of ADHD characterized by difficulty sustaining focus, not paying close attention to details, and often making careless mistakes in work or other activities. Individuals with attention deficit may not listen when spoken to, have trouble organizing tasks and activities, avoid or be reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort, and often lose things necessary for tasks or activities. They may also be easily distracted by extraneous stimuli or forgetful in daily activities. This symptom significantly affects academic, occupational, and social functioning and is often challenging to manage because it's not as outwardly visible as hyperactivity or impulsivity.

Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is an assessment conducted by a qualified professional who is an employee of the school or district. Parents of children with special education needs, such as ADHD can request an IEE at the school or district's expense if they disagree with an evaluation conducted by the school.

An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a customized educational plan developed for a student with a disability, including ADHD. It is designed to meet their unique educational needs. It includes specific educational goals and details the special education services and supports the student will receive.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a Federal law that determines whether students with specific learning disabilities are eligible for special educational services. The law requires that a child’s school must provide an evaluation if a child is suspected of having a specific learning disability.  Diagnosis of a learning disorder can qualify students for special programs and school services. Learning difficulties that qualify for such services cannot be due to other physical or psychological conditions, such as intellectual impairment, vision or hearing problems, neurological conditions resulting from strokes or brain damage, or other such difficulties. Under this program, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is created for students who qualify for special assistance, delineating the special education services and accommodations that will be provided. This is a legally binding document that sets out the services that should be made available, including:

• Instructional support such as specialized instruction techniques, modified assignments, or a teaching assistant.
• Behavioral intervention to help manage impulsivity, difficulty maintaining attention, or hyperactivity.
• Assistive technology like laptops with specialized software.
• Test accommodations include extended time, frequent breaks, or a quieter room for taking tests.

Infertility means difficulty getting pregnant after trying for a year. It can be caused by things like PCOS, problems with ovulation, endometriosis, or having a low sperm count or testosterone. The chance of infertility goes up as you get older.

Inositol is a type of sugar that our bodies make and is also in some foods. There are nine types, but myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol are the ones you mostly see in supplements. Studies show that taking inositol can help the body better use insulin. This might help women with PCOS have more regular periods, better ovulation, and increased chances of getting pregnant.

Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells don't respond properly to insulin, or they reduce the number of insulin receptors because of too much insulin in the blood. Many people with PCOS experience insulin resistance.

Insulin-sensitizers like metformin, and sometimes rosiglitazone or pioglitazone, are medications given to women with PCOS. They can be used alone or to help Clomifene Citrate work better.

Intermittent fasting is a way to eat that involves cycling between periods of not eating and eating as usual. There are different methods, like fasting every other day, doing the 5:2 diet (fasting for two days a week), or limiting eating to certain hours each day. Some people suggest it as a diet for those with PCOS, but since keeping blood sugar stable is important, it might not be the best choice for them.

An intervention in the context of ADHD refers to a specific strategy or set of strategies designed to address specific symptoms and improve the individual's functioning. Interventions can be behavioral, educational, or medical. Behavioral interventions might include therapy or behavior modification techniques, educational interventions may involve adjustments in the classroom setting or teaching methods, and medical interventions might include medication or other treatments.

Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there's not enough iron in the body, often due to blood loss or pregnancy. It's typically treated with iron supplements and eating foods high in iron. If it becomes severe, iron deficiency anemia can lead to hair loss, including pattern hair loss known as androgenetic alopecia.

Irregular menstruation is when a woman's period doesn't follow a regular schedule. This can mean the time between periods is shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, or it might involve unexpected bleeding between periods. Several things can cause this, like stress, weight changes, or smoking.

Keratin is a natural protein made by the body that provides structure and strength to our hair, skin, and nails.

The ketogenic diet means eating very few carbs and instead eating more fats so your body uses fat for energy. In the short term, this diet might help hormone problems often linked with PCOS.

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is a surgery to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and can help trigger ovulation. It involves using heat or a laser to remove small sections of the ovaries. This procedure is not frequently performed.

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) is a component of IDEA. It mandates that children with disabilities should be educated as part of the broader population to the greatest extent appropriate. The idea is to avoid unnecessary segregation and ensure students with disabilities such as ADHD should have access to the same educational opportunities as others.

Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a condition that affects the scalp and hair. It is a type of lichen planus, which is an inflammatory disease that impacts the skin and mucous membranes. People with LPP might experience symptoms like scaly skin, redness around hair follicles, bald spots, and a painful, burning, or itchy feeling on the scalp. The exact cause of LPP isn't fully known, but it seems that T-cells, which are part of the immune system, mistakenly attack the hair follicles. Because T-cells are involved, many experts think LPP might be an autoimmune disease.

A lipid profile, also called a lipid panel, is a set of blood tests that check for unusual levels of fats in the blood. Women with PCOS often have higher levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and non-HDL cholesterol, in addition to changes in triglycerides and HDL (good cholesterol), no matter their body weight.

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is a type of particle in your blood. Lipoproteins are made of fats and proteins, and they help carry fats through your bloodstream. People with PCOS might have serious cholesterol issues, like higher LDL and triglycerides, and lower HDL levels.

Lupus, also called systemic lupus erythematosus, is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues by mistake. This can affect various parts of the body. When lupus affects the skin, it can damage the hair follicles on the scalp, leading to hair loss. This hair thinning might happen very slowly.

Luteinizing hormone, or LH, is made by cells in the front part of the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus controls how much LH is made by releasing another hormone. In women of reproductive age, a quick increase in LH, called an LH surge, causes ovulation and helps form the corpus luteum. Women with PCOS often have high LH levels.

Pattern hair loss is a condition that mainly impacts the top and front parts of the scalp. For men, it usually appears as a receding hairline at the front, thinning hair on the crown, or both.

In the context of ADHD, a medication holiday (or drug holiday) refers to a planned and temporary cessation of ADHD medication. This may be done when the full benefits of medication are not required, such as during school breaks or weekends. The purpose of a medication holiday can vary; it might be to assess if the medication is still necessary, to reduce side effects, or to determine if symptoms have changed over time.

Mental health therapists is a term that includes counselors and psychotherapists. They provide therapy and counseling to manage the emotional and behavioral aspects of ADHD. They work with individuals to develop coping strategies, improve self-esteem, and address any coexisting mental health issues like anxiety or depression.

Metabolic syndrome is a group of health problems that happen together, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. This syndrome includes having at least three of these five issues: belly fat, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, and low levels of good cholesterol. About 33% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have metabolic syndrome.

Minoxidil is a medicine used to treat high blood pressure and hair loss. It can help counteract hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia. It does this by reversing the shrinking of hair follicles, increasing blood flow around them, and encouraging them to enter the growth phase.

In relation to ADHD, modification involves altering the environment, tasks, or expectations to suit the needs of an individual with ADHD. This could mean breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable parts, providing additional time for assignments, using visual aids to help with organization, or adjusting the classroom setup to minimize distractions. The goal is to modify the environment or task to set the individual with ADHD up for success.

Multimodal treatment is an approach to treating ADHD which involves a combination of different methods. It could include medication, dietary supplements, behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, and educational support. The idea is to address the different aspects of ADHD comprehensively.

Negative self-talk refers to any critical or pessimistic thoughts that individuals with ADHD may have about themselves. It can affect self-esteem and overall mental health. Addressing negative self-talk can be a key component of therapy for ADHD.

The term Neurobehavioral in the context of ADHD refers to the interplay between the brain's neurological functions and an individual's behavior. ADHD is often characterized as a neurobehavioral disorder because symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are closely linked to neurological processes in the brain. The term acknowledges that ADHD is not just a behavioral issue but is deeply rooted in neurobiological factors. These factors include differences in brain structure, function, and the balance of neurotransmitters, which influence behavior and cognitive functions.

Neurologists may come to be involved in diagnosing and treating ADHD when symptoms overlap with other neurological disorders. They focus on understanding any neurological basis of the symptoms and may conduct brain imaging or other neurological tests to rule out other conditions.

Neuropsychologists specialize in understanding the relationship between the brain and behavior. In ADHD, they assess cognitive functions like attention, memory, and executive functioning and help in differentiating ADHD from other neurological conditions.

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. For people with ADHD, the most relevant neurotransmitters are dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are key in attention, executive functioning, and impulse control. ADHD is often associated with dysregulation or imbalances in these neurotransmitters, which can lead to the symptoms of ADHD. Stimulant medications and dietary supplements used in ADHD treatment work by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, thereby improving attention and reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease, once called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is a type of long-term liver problem. It's identified when there's too much fat in the liver and at least one risk factor related to metabolism. This liver condition is common in people with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Non-stimulant medications for people with ADHD differ from stimulant medications because they do not increase levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain as rapidly. They can be an option for treating ADHD symptoms in individuals who do not respond well to stimulants or who experience significant side effects. Examples include atomoxetine and some antidepressants. Non-stimulant medications may take longer to show effects and have a different side effect profile compared to stimulants.

A nutritional deficiency occurs when there is a lack of essential nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, in a person's diet. This can lead to malnutrition and other health problems. Some deficiencies, such as a biotin deficiency, might cause hair loss.

Obesity is when someone has too much body fat. For adults, a BMI of 30 or more usually means obesity. Many people with PCOS are overweight or obese, ranging from 38% to 88%. The exact reason why PCOS and obesity are connected isn't clear.

An Occupational Therapist can assist individuals with ADHD in developing practical life skills. They focus on improving fine motor skills, organizational skills, and time management and may also help create strategies to manage sensory processing issues that can co-occur with ADHD.

Oligomenorrhea is when someone has menstrual periods that come less often. Usually, periods happen more than 35 days apart, with fewer than 9 periods in a year, even if they were regular before. The periods might be lighter or shorter and not follow a regular schedule. This often happens in women with polycystic ovaries.

An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid inside the ovary. Most of the time, they don't cause any symptoms, but sometimes they can lead to bloating, pain in the lower belly, or lower back pain. Most cysts aren't dangerous. However, if a cyst bursts or twists the ovary, it can cause a lot of pain.

Ovarian follicles are tiny fluid-filled sacs located in a woman's ovaries. They release hormones that affect the menstrual cycle. When women start puberty, they have about 300,000 to 400,000 of these follicles. Each follicle can potentially release an egg for fertilization.

Doctors use the size of ovaries, known as ovarian volume, to check for different health conditions. It helps them understand ovarian health, diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome, assess tumor risks, and evaluate pelvic anatomy. They usually rely on imaging techniques like ultrasound and MRI to measure ovarian volume. Polycystic ovaries (PCO) are identified on an ultrasound by finding 12 or more small follicles in each ovary, each measuring 2-9 mm, or by detecting increased ovarian volume over 10 ml.

A woman with ovulatory problems doesn't release an egg every month. PCOS is a common cause of these issues.

Oxidative stress happens when there's an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, which can damage cells. This stress is linked to multiple health conditions. Pollution and cigarette smoke can increase oxidative stress, while eating foods high in antioxidants can help lower it. Studies show that people with PCOS have higher levels of oxidative stress.

Alopecia areata is mainly identified by the loss of hair in small, round patches. These patches, about the size of a coin, typically appear on the scalp as hair begins to fall out.

The various types of PCOS are called phenotypes and they are: Type A has high levels of male hormones, irregular periods, and cysts on the ovaries. Type B has high male hormones and irregular periods. Type C has high male hormones and cysts on the ovaries. Type D has irregular periods and cysts on the ovaries.

Peer rejection refers to the experience of being excluded or rejected by peers. Children with ADHD, owing to their behaviors coming from impulsivity, hyperactivity, or difficulty in following social cues, may face challenges in social interactions, leading to peer rejection. This can have a significant impact on their self-esteem, social skills development, and overall mental health. Addressing peer rejection often involves social skills training and interventions in school and therapy settings.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a treatment created from a person’s own blood, used to boost healing and aid in the repair of certain injuries. PRP therapy is also used for treating hair loss, as it can help encourage and maintain hair growth.

Positive Behavioral Support (PBS) is a strategy widely used in schools, and this approach is often beneficial for children with ADHD. It involves understanding the reasons behind unwanted behaviors and using positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.

Many new mothers experience hair loss about three months after giving birth, which might continue for up to six months. This is a normal part of the postpartum period and isn't permanent. Most people's hair returns to its usual thickness over time. The extra hair loss happens because estrogen levels drop after childbirth.

The prefrontal cortex is a part of the brain crucial for executive functions, such as planning, decision-making, problem-solving, self-control, and moderating social behavior. It is often implicated in the disorder in individuals with ADHD coming from delays in prefrontal cortex development during formative years or differences in activation and connectivity, which can contribute to symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention.

Progesterone is a natural hormone in the body that plays a role in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and development of embryos in humans and other species. It is part of the steroid hormone group called progestogens. If someone has PCOS, the levels of different reproductive hormones might be off. Some, like LH, testosterone, DHEAS, androstenedione, and prolactin, might be too high. Others, like FSH and progesterone, could be too low.

A progestogen, also known as a progestagen, gestagen, or gestogen, is a medicine that mimics the natural female hormone progesterone. A progestin is a man-made version of this hormone. The progestin-only pill (POP), or minipill, has progestin but no estrogen. Similar to combined oral contraceptives (COCs), POPs can aid in managing hormonal issues in people with PCOS.

Progress monitoring refers to systematically assessing a child with ADHD's performance and behavior. This can involve tracking improvements or changes in symptoms, academic performance, or behavior in response to interventions or treatments. The goal is to understand the effectiveness of the strategies being used and make necessary adjustments.

Prolactin is a hormone that helps with making breast milk and developing breast tissue. If there’s too much prolactin in the blood, it can cause issues like irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, and problems with erections. Some people with PCOS might have high levels of prolactin.

Prosocial behavior refers to voluntary actions intended to benefit or help others, such as sharing, comforting, rescuing, and helping. In children with ADHD, fostering prosocial behavior can be an important part of their development. This can include teaching empathy, cooperation, and social skills. Encouraging and reinforcing these behaviors can also help in improving peer relationships and social interactions, areas that children with ADHD often struggle with.

Psoriasis is a skin condition that creates itchy, scaly patches on the body and sometimes on the scalp. When it affects the scalp, it might cause hair loss if someone scratches or picks at the irritated spots. This hair loss is usually temporary.

Psychoeducational testing evaluates a child’s psychological and educational strengths and weaknesses. It is used to diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, and other issues. The results can help in developing an effective educational plan.

Psychologists are specialist healthcare providers who diagnose and treat ADHD through behavioral therapy and counseling. They help children and adults with ADHD develop coping strategies, improve social skills, and address any emotional issues, such as low self-esteem or anxiety, that often accompany ADHD.

The Rebound Effect has special meaning in the context of ADHD medication. It refers to the exacerbation of symptoms as the medication wears off. This can show up as an increase in hyperactivity, impulsivity, or moodiness. It is more frequently seen with stimulant medications, as their effects decrease sharply towards the end of the dosing period. Managing the rebound effect may involve adjusting medication timing or dosage, or using different formulations.

Response to Intervention (RTI) is a process used in schools as a part of the process for identifying students with ADHD. It is designed to help students struggling academically or behaviorally. It involves providing interventions at increasing levels of intensity to help students succeed.

Scalp ringworm, or tinea capitis, is a rash resulting from a fungal infection. It often leads to itchy, scaly, and bald spots on the head. This condition is mainly caused by fungi called Microsporum and Trichophyton. These fungi can enter the outer layer of hair follicles and may eventually invade the hair itself.

Minoxidil is a medicine that helps grow new hair, especially when hair loss runs in the family. You can use it as a liquid or foam on your scalp to encourage hair growth. This medication is also known by the brand name Rogaine.

Rosiglitazone is a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It can be taken by itself or with other medications like metformin or sulfonylureas. It may also help with high male hormone levels and insulin resistance in women with PCOS.

Seasonal hair loss occurs when temperature changes affect the scalp and hair follicles, causing hair to fall out more quickly. The exact reason for this type of hair loss isn't fully understood, but studies indicate it affects more women than men. It generally returns to normal levels over time, allowing hair growth to continue as usual.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a long-lasting skin condition that causes symptoms like flaky, scaly, greasy, and sometimes itchy and red skin. It often affects areas rich in oil-producing glands, such as the scalp, face, and chest. This condition is usually triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Seborrheic dermatitis is linked to hair loss because increased sebum production can irritate the scalp, leading to itchiness. Scratching can harm hair follicles, which disrupts natural hair growth and causes hair to fall out.

Section 504 is a federal civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs that receive federal financial assistance, including public schools. Under Section 504, students with disabilities, including those with ADHD, are entitled to receive FAPE. This means they should have access to regular or special education and related aids and services designed to meet their individual needs as adequately as the needs of students without disabilities are met.

Self-regulation refers to the ability to manage one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in accordance with long-term goals. In the case of people with ADHD, self-regulation may be significantly impaired, leading to difficulties in controlling impulses, staying on task, organizing activities, and managing emotional responses. Strategies to improve self-regulation often involve behavioral interventions, skill-building activities, and sometimes medication.

Sensory Integration Disorder: This condition, sometimes seen in children with ADHD, involves difficulty processing sensory information like touch, sound, and movement. Children with sensory integration disorder may be overly sensitive to their environment or seek out intense sensory experiences.

Sex hormone-binding globulin, also known as sex steroid-binding globulin, is a protein that attaches to male and female hormones. When it is made by certain cells in the testicles, it's called androgen-binding protein. People with PCOS often have lower levels of SHBG.

Specific learning disability is a medical term defined by DSM-4 used for the classification of children with specific disorders. Educational systems more commonly use the term learning disorder.

The recognized conditions that lead to the diagnosis of a specific learning disorder include:

• Dyslexia - some degree of impairment in reading It is often associated with other neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD.
• Dysgraphia - some difficulties with writing down thoughts on paper as well as difficulties with spelling, grammar, punctuation, and handwriting
• Dyscalculia - difficulties performing math calculations with symbols and functions and learning number-related concepts

For all three, degrees of the disorder are categorized as mild, moderate and severe.  Someone diagnosed as having one of these specific learning disorders does not necessarily have a mental disability ADHD is categorized under “Other health impaired,” which is not considered a Specific Learning Disability or learning disorder. Still, a child with ADHD becomes entitled to benefits under IDEA when their condition significantly interferes with their educational performance, making a student eligible to receive special education services.

Speech or Language Impairment is the term that refers to difficulties in communication, which can sometimes occur in children with ADHD. It may involve problems understanding what is being said, expressing thoughts clearly, or articulating words properly.

Spironolactone, also known as Aldactone, is a medicine that helps remove extra fluid from the body. It's mainly used for people with heart problems, liver issues, or kidney disease. Additionally, it can block certain hormones, which makes it helpful for women with PCOS.

Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and amphetamines are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They are supposed to work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps improve concentration and focus while reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Target Behavior is a term used to refer to a specific behavior chosen for modification or intervention. In treating ADHD, target behaviors might include interrupting others, not completing tasks, or fidgeting excessively. The focus is on changing these specific behaviors through various therapeutic methods.

Telogen effluvium is when you lose hair quickly due to stress or changes in your body. Typically, your hair should start growing back within three to six months. While hair loss from stress is usually temporary, long-term stress can make hair shedding last longer and might even cause permanent damage by harming hair follicles.

The telogen phase of hair growth is when the hair takes a break from growing, and the hair follicle rests. At any given time, about 10% to 15% of our hair is in this phase. This phase usually lasts a few months.

Testosterone is the main male hormone that controls how males develop distinct sex traits, helps in making sperm, and affects fertility. Its influence starts in the fetus. In the first six weeks, male and female reproductive tissues are the same. Women with PCOS often have hormone imbalances, including high levels of testosterone.

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are medicines that help the body use insulin better. For people with PCOS, TZDs have two main benefits: they make the body more sensitive to insulin and reduce how much insulin is made, and they lower the production or effects of male hormones in the ovaries and fat tissue.

Thyroid disease is a health issue that affects how the thyroid gland works. When the thyroid doesn't function properly, it can lead to severe and long-lasting conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which might cause hair loss. This hair loss affects the whole scalp, making the hair look thin all over rather than in patches. With successful treatment of the thyroid problem, hair often grows back, but it can take several months and may not completely return to normal.

A Token Economy System is a behavior management technique often used for children with ADHD. It involves granting tokens or points as rewards for positive behavior, which can be exchanged for gifts or privileges. This system can help motivate children and teach self-regulation skills.

A topical medication is a type of medicine used directly on a specific area of the body. It's commonly applied to the skin or mucous membranes to address various health issues. These medications come in different forms, such as creams, foams, gels, lotions, and ointments, each designed to treat specific conditions.

Traction alopecia happens when hair is frequently pulled tight, leading to hair loss. This condition often affects women of African descent with tightly coiled hair. Hairstyles like braids, dreadlocks, or tight ponytails can cause the hair to be pulled too much, resulting in hair loss over time.

A transvaginal ultrasound is a standard imaging test used to check problems with your reproductive organs. It can reveal changes in your uterus, ovaries, or nearby structures. It is performed by a medical practitioner using an imaging wand that is inserted into the vagina.

Trichology is the field of study and practice in both medicine and cosmetology that focuses on the health and care of hair and the scalp.

Trichorrhexis nodosa is a hair condition where parts of a hair strand become thick or weak, causing them to break easily. It can be inherited, meaning it runs in families. Activities like blow-drying, ironing, over-brushing, perming, or using too many chemicals can also trigger it. Sometimes, an underlying health issue might be the cause.

Trichoscopy is a technique used to examine hair and scalp conditions. It helps doctors diagnose various hair and scalp diseases by using a special tool similar to dermoscopy. This tool allows them to see the hair and scalp structures at a much higher magnification than the naked eye.

Triglycerides are a kind of fat in your blood. When you eat, your body saves extra calories as triglycerides in fat cells. Between meals, hormones release these triglycerides to give you energy. Women with PCOS often have abnormal lipid levels, like high low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high triglycerides, and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Virilization happens when a female shows male-like features because of male hormones or when a baby is born with signs of male hormone exposure. Sometimes, the ovaries get bigger due to certain cysts, like those in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause virilization, but these cases are usually mild.

Vitamin D deficiency, also known as hypovitaminosis D, happens when the level of vitamin D in the body is lower than normal. This often occurs when people don't get enough sunlight, especially UVB rays. When the body lacks vitamin D, it affects the keratinocytes, which are cells that help regulate the hair growth cycle. This can lead to slower hair growth and more hair shedding. With low vitamin D levels, the growth phase (anagen) of the hair cycle becomes shorter, while the resting phase (telogen) becomes longer.

Vitamin D deficiency happens when there's not enough vitamin D in the body. This often occurs when people don't get enough sunlight, especially the kind with ultraviolet B rays. Women with PCOS are often found to have low vitamin D levels.

Weight management involves habits and methods that help someone reach and keep a healthy weight. This usually includes ongoing lifestyle changes like healthy eating and regular workouts. Studies show that losing a little weight (at least 5% of body weight) can help with hormone, reproductive, and metabolism problems in overweight or obese women with PCOS. It can improve issues like high androgen levels, insulin resistance, and overall metabolism.

Working memory describes cognitive functions that are important for temporarily holding and manipulating information. Working memory is often impaired in individuals with ADHD. This can affect abilities like following instructions, solving problems, and completing tasks that require holding several steps in mind.