attention

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attention

The direction of some of the channels of sensory input to a restricted area of the environment. Since the number of possible sources of information in the environment is so great, attention, which selectively directs and concentrates awareness and controls input, is of the first importance. Attention is seldom continuous for long and is determined mainly by the degree of interest in the source of the information. Attention is closely related to effectiveness in memory storage. It is no accident that people with a wide range of strong interests tend to have well-stocked minds. Motivation, as towards learning or achieving qualification, is a less powerful stimulus to attention than interest. Fortunately, interest grows with knowledge. Attention can be objectively demonstrated by such methods as electro-encephalography or PET scanning, which show special activity in the parts of the brain most employed at the time.

Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005

Patient discussion about attention

Q. what shall I do, he pays no attention if I try to get his attention to medicine by any other way? hi everyone….My 8 year old son with ADHD is improving well with his treatment, but it becomes very difficult for me to give him the medicine as he does not takes them and runs away with its bad taste…what shall I do, he pays no attention if I try to get his attention to medicine by any other way?

A. Hey Jennifer, there are some ways.…you can talk to your doctor for change of medicine with good flavor. You can try to give medicine with honey or sugar. Engage him in a television program of his choice and then try to feed him the medicine. You can lure him in exchange for something he loves. The best way is to explain him why he must have them & what benefit he will have and compare them with some lozenges and its bad effects like tooth decay by showing photos of decaying teeth. If it is a tablet, try to give him in liquid from by mixing the tablet in water. Good Luck!

Q. My 5 year old son is diagnosed with ADHD and he is more hyperactive than attention seeking. My 5 year old son is diagnosed with ADHD and he is more hyperactive than attention seeking. We are planning for alternative treatment now and then we would try for medicine. I've heard about increasing on Omega-3 -fish oil, but is there anything else out there that is safe enough to try?

A. Many are there, which I have tried for my son from 4 years. First and the foremost is the diet which I think you know. Behavioral and Cognitive therapies can be tried as it’s very effective. You can try a chiropractor and as well calming techniques. Try them……they are helpful.

Q. I wish to know the alarming signs in pregnancy that require immediate attention. I am pregnant and in my 2 week. As a precautionary measure, I wish to know the alarming signs in pregnancy that require immediate attention.

A. here are some major ones- Vaginal Bleeding, Cramping (in the second and third trimester, in the first it's normal to have slight cramps), Severe Headaches (long lasting headaches are one of the early signs of preeclampsia), Blurred Vision (another sign of preeclampsia),cannot feel the baby move after about week 16 to 20 pregnancy.

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