Attention allows the person to filter out potential distractions and select the stimulation or
thoughts he needs.
Executive functions are involved in suppressing inappropriate behavioral responses, initiating appropriate
ones, and maintaining ongoing mental activity. It consists of monitoring and maintenance functions.
Attention and executive functions are impaired in many wide-ranging medical, neurological and psychiatric
conditions.
For example, toxic-metabolic brain damage (drug side effects including), Multifocal
injuries (such as cerebrovascular diseases, closed head traumas, multiple sclerosis), Developmental
problems (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder), Degenerative processes (Alzheimer,
Fronto-temporal such as dementia, Parkinson's), Neuropsychiatric conditions (such as anxiety, depression,
mania, schizophrenia), Awakening and sleep disorders (such as sleep apnea syndromes and narcolepsy
).
Attention and The course of executive function disorders depends on the underlying cause. Detailed information taken from the person, examination findings (especially attention and mental status examination), neuromedical
examinations, systemic-medical conditions, metabolic screening tests and, if necessary, toxic screening
tests are valuable. Treatment is directed according to the cause found.
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