Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity includes symptoms such as increased body movement, impulsive behaviours, and a shorter attention span, and being easily distracted. Additional symptoms can include being easily distracted, impulsivity, an inability to concentrate, aggressiveness, and similar behaviours.

Hyperactivity is not easily defined. It often depends on the observer, behaviour that seems excessive to one person may not seem excessive to another however. This can become a problem if it interferes with school work or making friends.

Hyperactivity is sometimes viewed as more of a problem for schools and parents than it is for the child. But many hyperactive children are unhappy or even depressed, because hyperactive behavior may make a child a target for bullying. It may also make it harder to connect with other children. Schoolwork may be more difficult, children who are hyperactive may be frequently punished for their behavior.

Excessive movement (hyperkinetic behavior) often decreases as the child grows older. It may disappear entirely by adolescence.

Causes

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Brain or central nervous system disorders
Emotional disorders
Hyperthyroidism

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Your child seems persistently hyperactive.
Your child is very active, aggressive, impulsive, and has difficulty concentrating.
Your child’s activity level is causing social difficulties, or difficulty with schoolwork.