ADHD and Autism Doctor in Hyderabad
Hyperactive child who can't focus. Child not responding to their name. A clear, structured assessment changes everything — for the child and the family.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are the two most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood, together affecting approximately 8–10% of children in India. Many children in Hyderabad go undiagnosed for years — labelled as 'naughty', 'lazy', or 'slow' when they actually have a neurobiological condition that responds to specific interventions. Dr. Sushma B provides structured DSM-5-based assessments at Sri Anand Hospital.
Key Points
- ADHD and autism are neurodevelopmental conditions — not results of parenting failure or diet.
- ADHD diagnosis requires symptoms present before age 12, in multiple settings, for more than 6 months.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is diagnosed using standardised tools (CARS, ADOS) — not just a clinical impression.
- Behaviour therapy and parent training are first-line for young children — medication is added when needed.
- Early diagnosis unlocks the right educational support and therapy, dramatically improving school outcomes.
1 in 36
children diagnosed with ASD globally (2023)
Source: CDC
5-10%
of school-age children have ADHD
Source: WHO / DSM-5
ADHD and Autism — Key Signs to Look For
ADHD — Inattention Signs
Cannot stay focused on tasks, easily distracted, loses things constantly, forgets instructions, daydreams in class, does not complete tasks. ADHD inattentive type is often missed in girls.
ADHD — Hyperactivity Signs
Cannot sit still, always 'on the go', talks excessively, interrupts constantly, impulsive behaviour (acts before thinking), difficulty waiting in turn. More common in boys.
Autism — Social Communication Signs
Not making eye contact, not responding to name, not pointing or waving, not showing objects of interest, limited imagination in play, preferring to play alone.
Autism — Repetitive Behaviours
Repeating phrases (echolalia), insisting on sameness, intense preoccupation with specific topics, repetitive hand movements (flapping, spinning), rigid routines.
School Performance Impact
Both ADHD and unrecognised ASD typically present as school difficulties — falling behind, poor homework completion, behaviour problems in class, or social exclusion.
ADHD and ASD Assessment at Sri Anand
Structured Parent Interview
Detailed developmental history, pregnancy and birth history, family history, behaviour at home and school, previous assessments, and parent-completed rating scales (Conners, CARS2).
Direct Child Observation
Observation of the child's behaviour, communication style, play skills, attention, and social engagement during the clinic visit — an essential component of the assessment.
School Report Integration
Teacher-completed rating scales and school reports are an important part of ADHD assessment — ADHD by definition requires impairment in more than one setting (home AND school).
ADHD Medication Management
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) is the first-line medication for ADHD when indicated. We discuss benefits, risks, titration, and monitoring. Medication is always part of a comprehensive plan including behavioural strategies.
Therapy Referral and Family Guidance
Referral to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) for ASD. Parent behaviour management training. School support letter for special education accommodations.
Why Choose Sri Anand Hospital?
Treated by: Dr. Sushma B · MD (Paediatrics) · Neurodevelopmental Specialist
"ADHD and autism are not character flaws or poor parenting — they are neurological differences in how the brain processes the world. With the right diagnosis and support, these children thrive. The diagnosis is not a life sentence; it is a roadmap."
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Sri Anand Child & Neuro Hospital · Open 24/7 · Chanda Nagar, Hyderabad