Understanding the Differences Between Add and ADHD

If you are among the many people who are confused about ADD and ADHD, we at ADD/ADHD Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, and Highland Park, TX can help you get some answers.

ADD

ADD has been tagged as an outdated term that formerly described people who mostly have problems with inattention but do not exhibit a lot of hyperactive or impulsive traits. It is now considered part of the ADHD category.

ADHD

The current official term for a condition that produces patterns of impulsivity as well as inattention and/or hyperactivity is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with the inattentive subtype that was previously known as ADD:

• Lacks concentration and can easily get sidetracked
• There is often a problem with attention, which can manifest as a short attention span for chores as well as games or other forms of entertainment.
• Difficulty with time management when working and participating in other activities
• The desire to avoid activities that require a person to think for considerable amounts of time
• They commonly forget objects which are needed to perform tasks in the future.

Symptoms of Hyperactive-Impulsive Subtype

• Bites nails, twists hair, turns hands or feet, slides around in the seat, or continuously moves any of the limbs while seated
• Gets up from a seat when there is an expectation to remain seated
• Does not know when to run or climb and may do so in the wrong places
• Speaks without restraint and is seen as being blunt or impolite; tends to interrupt people and intrude

Combined Subtype

This is the appropriate diagnosis for someone who has the symptoms of both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive subtypes.

Diagnosis

The diagnostic criteria for ADHD are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which divides the disorder into three subtypes: predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, and combined presentation.

ADHD is among the most widespread childhood disorders that affect the neurodevelopmental aspect of the child. It commonly continues into adulthood, with the symptoms and level of function shifting in many cases.

Treatment

ADHD is mainly managed through behavior therapy accompanied by medication. The specific approach can vary depending on the client’s age, the severity of the symptoms, and the presence of other medical conditions. It is necessary to perform behavioral interventions to address the symptoms and enhance outcomes.

If you still wonder about the differences between ADD and ADHD or need to schedule an appointment, the ADD/ADHD Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, & Highland Park, TX can be reached at (972) 943-0410.