ADD and ADHD: Understanding the Difference, Symptoms, and Treatment

Attention deficit disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common childhood disorders. The condition is very subjective, and it varies from person to person. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 6.4 million American children suffer from the condition.

Attention Deficit disorder basically comprises of three subtypes – ADD (now called inattentive), ADHD (now called hyperactive impulse), and combined. Each type has its own distinct set of symptoms. Where in one you would want to jump walls, in the other, you would prefer sitting in a corner all coiled up to yourself.

Many wonder the difference between ADD and ADHD, but actually, ADD is just an outdated term. ADD was used to refer to patients who had trouble concentrating but were not hyperactive. The term got buried after the American Psychiatric Association released the DSM-5, which changed the criteria to diagnose a person with ADHD.

Table of Contents

Types of ADHD

Hyperactive: It is a disorder where a person shows symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity without being inattentive.

Inattentive: This is basically what we used to call ADD. Here a person shows symptoms of inattention without being impulsive or hyperactive.

Combined: As the name suggests, it reflects both the symptoms – attentiveness and hyperactivity.

ADD ADHD Symptoms

Most of us ignore mental conditions and instead go into denial. It is important we acknowledge the presence of the condition as early as possible. And if you feel you or your loved one might be suffering from it, the best thing to do is approach a medical health professional. It mostly affects children. A doctor may diagnose a person with ADHD if they –

are forgetful of daily activities and are easily distracted.
have trouble keeping attention and following instructions.
get easily sidetracked and have difficulty finishing assigned tasks.
climbs and runs in inappropriate situations.
are unable to stay calm and always intrudes and interrupts.
talk excessively and are unable to play quietly.

If you feel your child shows these symptoms, you must approach a medical doctor. Adults with ADHD typically had the disorder since their childhood. It just may not be diagnosed then. So, it is even more critical for us to realize and observe if our child or loved one is experiencing these symptoms. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better it is.

ADD ADHD symptoms can be mild or even severe. ADHD affects social life, school, work, and the overall wellbeing of the individual. Conditions like depression, anxiety, or learning disability can even worsen the symptoms.

Treatment

If you feel your child or any of your loved ones suffers from ADHD, the first thing you should do is consult a doctor. If you diagnose it early, you’ll cure it earlier. Treatment of ADHD is subjective and varies from patient to patient. That is why it is essential that a doctor evaluates the patient’s condition. He will formulate a plan and would recommend ADHD medication accordingly. There are several traditional oral medicines that you use for treatment.

Determining ADHD and its type takes you one step closer to finding the right treatment. It is essential to approach a medical doctor as soon as possible you observe its symptoms. There are several treatments available, and your child could get better. Be vigilant and careful of ADD ADHD symptoms, and you don’t have to worry about anything else.

The Bottomline

ADHD is a mental disorder. It can interfere with the everyday life of your child. It affects its behavior at school, at home, or with other kids. And if not diagnosed on time may pass onto adulthood. It is quite common, and there are a lot of treatments. Our doctors can help. We have a telemedicine platform where you could schedule an appointment with us or get evaluated by our doctor online. ADHD is not something that could be ignored. Be it inattentiveness, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, every kid has a little bit of all these, but keeping track of these symptoms can help your child in a lot of ways. So, take out a checklist and start observing. Cheers for a healthier tomorrow.