You work hard to be successful, but sometimes even your best efforts do not seem to be enough. You may find that you struggle to focus, which gets in the way of your productivity and, ultimately, your success. You are not alone—many people experience these symptoms, and our providers can help people in Allen and elsewhere in the DFW in diagnosing ADD or ADHD, giving you answers and solutions. With some help, you or your children can learn strategies to overcome the challenges that ADHD may present.
While still used colloquially to refer to some symptoms, attention-deficit disorder (ADD) is now considered just one subset of the broader spectrum of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADD is now referred to by experts as ADHD inattentive type.
There are three main types of ADHD that you may be diagnosed with, based on the symptoms you exhibit during your daily life.
Most symptoms of predominantly inattentive ADHD revolve around struggling to focus and stay on task. It can also include a struggle to stay organized. Inattentive symptoms also include:
The symptoms of this subset of ADHD involve being too active or exhibiting too much energy. Often, this is seen as disruptive behavior. The Impulsive aspect refers to acting without thinking about the outcomes of one’s actions, often leading to conflict or instances of harm. Other symptoms include:
Combined ADHD refers to those who exhibit a mixture of both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.
While there is no specific test to identify or diagnose ADD or ADHD, patients can come to our Allen clinic to discuss when the symptoms started and the degree of problems they create at home and school. Once a concern has been identified, we can conduct a series of evaluations to identify the intensity of the symptoms and the best treatment option.
A medical exam is the first step in diagnosis, in order to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. Information gathering is a major part of diagnosing ADHD, as examining behaviors and family history can help reveal the extent of the symptoms. Interviews and surveys are also used to judge how impactful the ADHD symptoms are, both for the patient and those around them. ADHD rating scales are also used to help collect data to see how ADHD impacts your day-to-day life.
These tests are integral to diagnosing ADHD and rule out other potential causes, such as learning or language delays, or other disorders that may share some symptoms.
Treatment for ADHD can include medicine, therapy, counseling, and education services. When used together, they provide a well-rounded course of treatment, addressing the physical aspects of ADHD and developing effective strategies to manage the symptoms and allow you or your child to lead a more fulfilling life. Talk therapy or counseling can help those who are older explore the issues that bother them, letting them analyze negative behavior patterns and learn how to manage their symptoms. As with many health concerns, the best results occur when a team approach is used, treating all facets of the patient for maximum effect.
You and your child can find help, and there is no shame in reaching out. Our skilled Allen, TX providers are trained in diagnosing ADD or ADHD and are happy to guide you through the process. By developing your knowledge and skills, you can lead a full, happy, healthy life. Reach out and schedule a consultation today!