Is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) connected to a lack of sleep? The Doctors welcome sleep specialist Dr. Raj Dasgupta to discuss the findings of a new study.
The new research suggests that some people with ADHD may have problems with their biological clocks. Dr. Raj says it has been long documented that there is a strong association between ADHD and sleep disorders, but he notes that simply treating sleep issues will not always solve ADHD issues.
He explains that while adults may appear sleepy during the day if sleep deprived, that children who have not slept enough might present hyperactive behavior. He also tells The Doctors that many of the medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants and can keep kids awake at night.
Watch: Are Candy-Flavored ADHD Meds Problematic?
Dr. Raj recommends to parents with kids with ADHD, to avoid letting your kids become night owls and explains that most kids need 8 to 11 hours of sleep. He recommends keeping a consistent nighttime schedule and also a consistent wake-up schedule, even on the weekends.
