You may be wondering what the difference is between ADHD vs. ADD. Well the short solution is that they both refer to the same condition. ADD or Attention deficit disorder is the term that was used in the past to describe someone with an lack of ability to be attentive and other associated issues. Some people may use the term ADD to refer to a person who suffers from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder, but without the hyperactivity or impulsive symptoms. There are many methods of ADHD today including but natural and medications.
Today the appropriate terminology that is used is ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder. This is the accepted term, which is used by healthcare professionals around the world. This broad term does not go deep enough though to describe the type of ADHD that a distinct person may suffer from.
Three Broad types of ADHD
Inattentive type ADHD
Hyperactive / Impulsive type ADHD
Combined type ADHD
These three main types of ADHD have a variety of diverse symptoms. It is essential to note that a person with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder may not necessarily display all of the symptoms for that particular type of the disorder.
Inattentive type ADHD
When a person has this type of ADHD their symptoms generally relate mainly to inattention. This means that he or she will easily become distracted, be quite forgetful and find it difficult to pay shut attention to distinct details. It is in this type of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder patient that the label ADD may be used, but to be appropriate in modern healthcare terminology, ADHD should be used instead. Other symptoms may also include sluggishness, difficulty in processing data, a tendency to daydream a lot, may be withdrawn or shy and may find it difficult to decipher between data that is appropriate or irappropriate in any distinct circumstances. Because the symptoms of this type of ADHD are not as overt as those with the impulsive and hyperactive symptoms, these sufferers are overlooked many times.
Hyperactive / Impulsive type ADHD
Due to the dynamics and symptoms of this type of ADHD individuals with this disorder are often more quickly identified than those with inattentive type ADHD. The predominant symptoms include being impulsive and hyperactive in behavior.
Also includes symptoms such as:
- speaking or acting without first thinking it through.
- Problems with waiting in lines or queues,
- Interrupting when others are speaking,
- Talking an extreme amount,
Combined type ADHD
People with the combined type of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder display symptoms of both the Inattentive and Hyperactive-Impulsive types of the disorder.
Much research has gone into the treatment of all three main types of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder, especially in youngsters. There are two main treatments that are commonly used and these are medications and alternative treatments.
The family members doctor may prescribe medications and these may either be short or long acting. It is essential to keep in mind that there may be side effects with using these ADHD drugs and if these occur then it is essential to go back to your doctor and let them know.
Alternative ADHD treatments include behavioral treatment, family members group psychotreatment and also special training tutoring. Each of these alternative procedures has had success with many patients.
In summary, it is essential to obtain a diagnosis if you suspect that one of your youngsters or someone you know is suffering from ADHD. Treatments today are able to improve the life of the individual with the disorder as well as that of the family members.