ADD and ADHD are common behavioral disorders, affecting more than 6.4 million American children. At Manchester Pediatric Associates, the team of experienced pediatricians specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ADD and ADHD. To make an appointment for your child at the practice in South Windsor, or Tolland, Connecticut, call the nearest office today or schedule online.

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What are ADD and ADHD?

ADD and ADHD are neurodevelopmental disorders especially common in children and teens. The terms are often mentioned together, but there are differences:

ADD

ADD is a type of ADHD that doesn’t involve fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. Technically, the term ADD is outdated. In 1994, physicians began categorizing ADHD into several different “types.”

ADHD

ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. It’s characterized by impulsive behaviors, difficulty focusing, or being easily distracted. There are three types of ADHD –– inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined.

What are the symptoms of ADD and ADHD?

Symptoms of ADD and ADHD include:

  • Having trouble focusing or concentrating
  • Being forgetful about completing tasks
  • Being easily distracted
  • Being hyper-talkative
  • Daydreaming
  • Having difficulty sitting still

 

If your child has ADD or ADHD, they might also have a tendency to interrupt others when they’re speaking.

When should I visit a pediatrician about ADD and ADHD?

If you suspect your child has ADD or ADHD, don’t wait to schedule a professional evaluation. If your child is enrolled at a public school, you can also talk to their counselor. Schools regularly monitor students for potential issues that might affect their performance in the classroom.

How are ADD and ADHD diagnosed?

To diagnose ADD and ADHD, your child’s Manchester Pediatric Associates provider asks you about their symptoms and has you fill out a detailed questionnaire. Afterward, they conduct a comprehensive physical exam to check for any underlying health problems. Depending on your child’s needs, the team might also order tests like blood work or diagnostic imaging.

How are ADD and ADHD treated?

Treatment of ADD and ADHD depends on the severity of your child’s symptoms and the effect on their quality of life. The team at Manchester Pediatric Associates usually recommends a combination of prescription medication and behavioral therapy.

Medication

There are two types of medication used to treat ADD and ADHD –– stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants increase the production of certain brain chemicals, like dopamine, which can help increase focus.

If your child doesn’t respond to stimulants, they might benefit from non-stimulants. Non-stimulants increase the production of norepinephrine and present fewer side effects.

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral therapy teaches your child skills designed to help them monitor and manage their behavior. Specifically, it educates them on how to control their impulses and actions.

If you’re worried about your child’s risk of ADD and ADHD, make an appointment at Manchester Pediatric Associates by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.