ADHD

Q Can ADHD be completely cured?

A. Rather than a complete cure, the realistic goal for ADHD is symptom management and functional improvement — in many cases, symptoms improve to a level where daily life is not significantly affected.

Q I have ADHD and I think I also have anxiety. Can both be treated together?

A. ADHD and anxiety disorder co-occur in 30–50% of cases, and Korean medicine treatment can address both conditions together.

Q I am an adult with ADHD and I also suffer from significant depression. How should I approach this?

A. Depression and anxiety are highly comorbid with adult ADHD, and integrated treatment addressing both conditions simultaneously is needed.

Q How can I help my child with ADHD at home?

A. A consistent daily routine, breaking tasks into short segments, and positive reinforcement are the most effective home supports for children with ADHD.

Q I heard exercise helps with ADHD — what type is best?

A. Aerobic exercise naturally releases dopamine and alleviates ADHD symptoms; 30 or more minutes of regular daily exercise is recommended.

Q I've heard ADHD medication (Ritalin) is bad for the heart — is that true?

A. For most children without underlying cardiovascular disease it is safe, but cardiac evaluation is essential before use if there are any heart abnormalities.

Q Is it safe to give herbal medicine to young children?

A. Herbal medicine with dosages adjusted to suit a child's weight and constitution can be taken safely, and there are almost no reports of toxicity from long-term use.

Q Can my child take herbal medicine alongside ADHD medication like Ritalin?

A. Concurrent use of methylphenidate and herbal medicine is generally feasible, but you must disclose all medications to your prescribing practitioner.

Q Does ADHD go away naturally as a child grows up?

A. Approximately 50% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms into adulthood, making early treatment and management important.

Q How long does Korean medicine treatment for ADHD take before results are seen?

A. Three months is typically considered the first treatment unit, with 6–12 months of maintenance treatment recommended depending on the degree of improvement.

Q Is my child's inability to focus really ADHD, or just their personality?

A. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by dysregulation of dopamine and norepinephrine — it is distinct from a personality trait.

Q What causes ADHD? Is it genetic?

A. Genetic factors account for 70–80% of ADHD cases, with dopamine receptor gene variants being the primary cause.

Q Are there foods my child with ADHD should avoid?

A. Artificial dyes, sugar, and caffeine may worsen hyperactivity and are best limited for children with ADHD.

Q Does lack of sleep make ADHD symptoms worse?

A. Sleep deprivation impairs frontal lobe function and significantly worsens inattention and impulsivity.

Q How often do we need to visit Dongjedang for ADHD treatment?

A. Every two weeks for the first month, then adjusted to monthly visits once symptoms are stable.

Q In what order is ADHD treatment conducted?

A. The process proceeds in the following order: Diagnosis and Differentiation → Prescription to strengthen the Heart, Spleen, and Kidney → Concurrent Acupuncture Treatment → Re-evaluation after 3 months.

Q My child goes to school — will treatment interfere with school life?

A. Korean medicine treatment has no drowsiness or appetite-suppressing side effects, making it easy to combine with school life.

Q Does Korean medicine treatment actually work for ADHD?

A. Acupuncture and herbal medicine have shown benefit in improving concentration and impulsivity, and are used as adjunct or standalone treatment.