Introduction to Communication Disorder:
Communication Disorder deals with various improper body functions which shows problems in communicating. Speech and Language Disorders are a major form of Communication Disorder. The basic characteristics observed in this Disorder range from simple hearing losses to greater problems in talking or understanding the language.
To treat Communication Disorder 3 basic goals are kept in mind. They are:
- to help the patient to make improvement over his speaking and understanding language
- to help children suffering from Communication Disorder to overcome their inabilities
- to help the sufferers practising more and getting better interacting socially, i.e.- with friends, family, outsiders, schoolmates etc.
Stimulant Medication:
It includes a class of medicines which hastens up a part of the brain to control the aggressive effects of Communication Disorders in some children. Ritalin (methylphenidate) or Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) etc. are few examples of Stimulant Medicines.
Prior to the usage of Stimulant Medication, the following points have to be examined:
- Family history of the children has to be known about any heart disease, allergies, brain disorders etc.
- Complete physical examination has to be performed to check presence of any other disease.
Stimulation Medication in children may result in the following symptoms:
- Increase in Attentiveness and decrease in Distraction
- Increase in determination to finish any work
- Understanding of directions
- Decrease in aggressions and stubbornness
- Increase the thining and understanding ability
- Improving the handwriting
Using Stimulant Medications under proper supervision have been found safe in few cases. In others fee short-term side effects may be observed which may be treated easily or may go away with stopping the use. Stimulant Medications are not addictive. Few may get severe side effects where the intake of the medicine should be stopped immediately. The following symptoms may be observed while under Stimulant Medication:
- Headache, Body pain, Stomach pain
- Weight loss, Loss of appetite
- Depression, Irritation in behavior, Feeling sad always
- Effects may be seen either starting of medication, or on long-term use of the medication or may be after completing the medication.
