The first evidence for the brain being under stimulated was introduced with the
use of more advanced electroencephalograms (EEG or brainwave studies) by
Joel Lubar from the University of Tennessee. He demonstrated that when ADD
children and teenagers performed a concentration task there was an increased
amount of slow brain wave activity in their frontal lobes, instead of the usual
increase in fast brain wave activity that was seen in the majority of the control
group.
In 1990, published PET data that supported the notion of brain underactivity in
the prefrontal cortex, especially in response to an intellectual challenge. Data
from Dr. Daniel Amen's work with SPECT brain imaging drew the same
conclusions. At rest most ADD people have normal activity in their brain. When
they perform a concentration task, however, they experience decreased activity
in the prefrontal cortex, rather than the expected increased activity that is seen
in a normal control group.
Tied to the decreased prefrontal cortex findings are the studies that indicate that
ADD is has a large genetic contribution, involving dopamine availability in the
brain. A significant amount of dopamine is produced in the basal ganglia (large,
structures deep within the brain). Stimulant medications work by enhancing
dopamine availability in this part of the brain. Studies have demonstrated that
the basal ganglia is smaller in people with ADD. The basal ganglia have a
significant number of nerve tracks that go through the limbic system to the
prefrontal cortex. It appears that when there is not enough dopamine available
in the basal ganglia then there is not enough 'fuel' to drive the frontal lobes
when they need to activate with concentration.
Beside the genetic contribution to ADD, maternal alcohol or drug use, birth
trauma, jaundice, brain infections and head trauma (sometimes even minor
ones, especially to the left prefrontal cortex) can play a causative role.
use of more advanced electroencephalograms (EEG or brainwave studies) by
Joel Lubar from the University of Tennessee. He demonstrated that when ADD
children and teenagers performed a concentration task there was an increased
amount of slow brain wave activity in their frontal lobes, instead of the usual
increase in fast brain wave activity that was seen in the majority of the control
group.
In 1990, published PET data that supported the notion of brain underactivity in
the prefrontal cortex, especially in response to an intellectual challenge. Data
from Dr. Daniel Amen's work with SPECT brain imaging drew the same
conclusions. At rest most ADD people have normal activity in their brain. When
they perform a concentration task, however, they experience decreased activity
in the prefrontal cortex, rather than the expected increased activity that is seen
in a normal control group.
Tied to the decreased prefrontal cortex findings are the studies that indicate that
ADD is has a large genetic contribution, involving dopamine availability in the
brain. A significant amount of dopamine is produced in the basal ganglia (large,
structures deep within the brain). Stimulant medications work by enhancing
dopamine availability in this part of the brain. Studies have demonstrated that
the basal ganglia is smaller in people with ADD. The basal ganglia have a
significant number of nerve tracks that go through the limbic system to the
prefrontal cortex. It appears that when there is not enough dopamine available
in the basal ganglia then there is not enough 'fuel' to drive the frontal lobes
when they need to activate with concentration.
Beside the genetic contribution to ADD, maternal alcohol or drug use, birth
trauma, jaundice, brain infections and head trauma (sometimes even minor
ones, especially to the left prefrontal cortex) can play a causative role.
NORMAL BRAIN SCANS
ADD ABNORMAL BRAIN SCANS
project nomadd
(no more add)
Subtypes of ADD
It is essential to note that ADD is a
developmental disorder diagnosed
through clinical history over a
prolonged period of time. Brain
imaging is not necessary to make
the diagnosis of ADD, although it
may be helpful in certain complicated
cases.
7 clinical subtypes of ADD:
ADD ADHD Combined
Inattentive ADD ADHD
Overfocused ADD
Temporal Lobe ADD
Limbic ADD
Ring of Fire ADD
Trauma Induced ADD
Aurora Counseling Center is
proud to be a provider referral
source for the Amen Clinics:
It is essential to note that ADD is a
developmental disorder diagnosed
through clinical history over a
prolonged period of time. Brain
imaging is not necessary to make
the diagnosis of ADD, although it
may be helpful in certain complicated
cases.
7 clinical subtypes of ADD:
ADD ADHD Combined
Inattentive ADD ADHD
Overfocused ADD
Temporal Lobe ADD
Limbic ADD
Ring of Fire ADD
Trauma Induced ADD
Aurora Counseling Center is
proud to be a provider referral
source for the Amen Clinics:
Call for a free consultation today, and let us show you how EEG Neurofeedback
can help you! Kids, teens, and adults are welcome to come and train at our
new center! 720-859-0553 This training is very affordable.
can help you! Kids, teens, and adults are welcome to come and train at our
new center! 720-859-0553 This training is very affordable.
