ADD and ADHD Services at Internal Medicine and Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, MS

ADD and ADHD are different conditions, even though they often go hand-in-hand. ADD affects a person's ability to stay focused and organized, while ADHD typically causes hyperactivity and impulsivity issues. In either case, having a firm grasp of the signs and symptoms, along with available treatment options, can help you make the best decisions for your child.

How Are ADD and ADHD Different?

Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, is a condition that is characterized by symptoms that make it difficult for a child to focus or concentrate beyond what is generally considered normal. Those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, may also have trouble focusing or concentrating; however, they have the added difficulty of controlling their impulses or staying still. Below are some additional characteristics of these two conditions.

Symptoms of ADD 

People with ADD may have trouble focusing on tasks, paying attention during school, and completing homework assignments on time. They may find it difficult to concentrate on a particular activity for an extended period of time. This can make it frustrating to plan and execute tasks, especially when distractions are present. Note that people with ADD also have trouble controlling impulses, but they do not display hyperactive behavior.

Symptoms of ADHD

Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the main symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can make it hard for someone with the disorder to do well in school and at work. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, sitting still, and controlling impulsive behavior. They may be disorganized or struggle to follow instructions. They could also have difficulty remaining focused on a task or activity for an extended period of time.

Shared Symptoms of ADD and ADHD

With both ADD and ADHD, additional symptoms of either condition can include:

• Disruptiveness. People with ADD or ADHD may make impulsive decisions that can be disruptive within a school or work environment. They might be overly talkative and have trouble paying attention to what others are saying, making it difficult for them to keep friends and make new ones.
• Forgetfulness. People with ADD or ADHD have trouble remembering certain things, including important dates and tasks. They might forget what they were supposed to do or where they were supposed to go. Many people with ADD or ADHD also have problems with organization and prioritizing tasks.
• Constantly interrupting others. Because people with ADD or ADHD have difficulty controlling their impulses, they may interrupt others frequently or blurt out answers before questions have been completed. 

How Do I Know Whether to Test My Child for ADD or ADHD?

Note that initial signs of ADD or ADHD tend to appear around 7 years of age, but symptoms can ensue at any age. Oftentimes, parents understandably dismiss their child’s disruptive actions as simple kid behavior. However, when these actions begin to negatively impact kids’ school lives, home lives, or friendships, it may be wise to consider having them tested for ADD or ADHD. 

With the help of a pediatrician and other experts, parents can better decipher the difference between normal hyperactive behavior and behavior that might require medical intervention. Our pediatrics team at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether your child has ADD or ADHD. Our IMPC service also includes testing for any other possible medical conditions that could be contributing to kids’ disruptive or forgetful behaviors.

Our IMPC pediatric and internal medicine physicians are highly trained in diagnosing and treating ADD/ADHD in children. We’ll work closely with you to determine whether your child has these conditions and advise how to treat them effectively. We approach every situation with the utmost care and compassion, ensuring you and your child have a positive experience with us and find a solution to meet your needs. Whether your child requires ADHD services, ADD services, or other health care, we are with you every step of the way.

How Will My Child Be Evaluated for ADD or ADHD?

Every evaluation for ADD or ADHD begins with a discussion between you and your child’s pediatrician. This conversation gives you the opportunity to raise any specific concerns about your child’s behaviors and various symptoms. We will review your child’s family history, general health history, and any other symptoms to evaluate whether other health conditions could be influencing their behavior.

As part of this evaluation, your child’s pediatrician may also ask to speak with your child’s teachers and caregivers. These conversations can help them glean further insights about any factors that could be contributing to your child’s behaviors. 

How Can ADD and ADHD Be Treated?

If we confirm that your child has ADD or ADHD, our pediatrics team at Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic will develop a custom treatment plan built off your child’s medical history and specific needs. This plan may include the following elements:

• We’ll offer a variety of resources and health tips to help equip your child with what they need to thrive in their school and home environment while living with ADD or ADHD.
• We may recommend making certain adjustments to your child’s daily exercise routine, diet, and other lifestyle factors. 
• We may also recommend family counseling and behavioral therapy.
• In some cases, we may recommend medication to help alleviate ADD or ADHD symptoms. However, we thoroughly explore all treatment options before we recommend prescription medications.

At Internal Medicine & Pediatric Clinic in New Albany, we don’t simply treat ADD or ADHD; we provide comprehensive services that address your child’s needs holistically. As one of the Southeast’s top-ranked practices in pediatrics and internal medicine, we offer comprehensive services in-house, from lab work and diagnostics and follow-up care.

To schedule your child’s ADD or ADHD consultation with IMPC, call us at (662) 219-3557 or book an appointment online. We are eager to assist you with all of your family’s health needs.