Overview

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that interferes with a person’s functioning or development. ADHD can present as either inattentiveness or hyperactivity or a combination of the two.

What does ADHD stand for?

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

This diagnosis has gone through several name changes over the years, which can sometimes confuse patients. ADD is an outdated term that only includes the inattentive symptoms that a patient can experience with ADHD. In the latest version of DSM-5 (otherwise known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), psychiatrists have combined both the inattentive and hyperactive components to make one large diagnosis, ADHD. From there, the diagnosis becomes more specific:

ADHD, predominantly inattentive type (this most closely resembles the previously diagnosed ADD patients)
ADHD, predominantly hyperactive type
ADHD with a combined presentation

Causes

What causes ADHD?

The cause of ADHD in both children and adults is unknown. We do know that in ADHD patients, there is hypo functioning of dopamine and norepinephrine in some areas of the brain.

When these two neurotransmitters are not as present as they should be, this can lead to some of the symptoms we see in our patients. We know that there is a genetic component to ADHD and that patients with parents or siblings who have ADHD are 2-8 times more likely to have ADHD themselves. Additionally, twin studies have shown heritability estimated at 76%.

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Symptoms

What are ADHD symptoms?

Inattentive symptoms:

- Failure to pay close attention to details
- Difficulty sustaining attention
- Not listening when spoken to
- Not following through on instructions
- Struggling with task completion
- Lacking organizational skills
- Avoiding tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Easily forgetful
- Frequently losing things that are necessary for task completion
- Easily distracted by outside noises or other individuals

Hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms:

Frequent fidgeting of hands or feet
Leaving your seat when you are supposed to stay seated
Feeling restless (adults)
Running/climbing when it is inappropriate (kids)
Inability to do activities quietly
Excessive talking
Constantly “on the go”
Struggling to wait your turn
Cutting other people off when they are speaking
Blurting out answers before the question is completed

Diagnosis

How is ADHD diagnosed?

A two-fold approach is used in diagnosing ADHD. Clinicians use diagnostic testing (such as the Cambridge Brain Science exam) and screening questionnaires, patient history, and physical exam before making an ADHD diagnosis.

How to know if you have ADHD?

If you believe you may have ADHD, it is recommended to consult with a qualified professional for a formal evaluation. In some individuals, teachers or loved ones have pointed out symptoms they have noticed that warrant further evaluation. In other situations, patients themselves see declining functioning in their work, school, or home life.

Treatment

How to treat ADHD?

ADHD is commonly treated with stimulant medications that help regulate key neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. There are different types of stimulant treatments available, each tailored to the individual’s needs. For those who prefer alternatives, there are also non-stimulant options that can be effective in managing ADHD.

At Specialty Clinic, we believe in a comprehensive approach to ADHD management. In addition to medication, we offer behavioral therapy, support groups, and resources, along with school accommodations to help patients succeed in all aspects of life.

Why can stimulants be used to treat ADHD in children?

Stimulants have been studied for decades and have shown long-term safety with significant improvements for a challenging diagnosis like ADHD. The FDA has also issued a statement indicating no association between these medications and adverse cardiovascular events in children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released its latest treatment recommendations in 2019, which include stimulants as a first-line treatment for ADHD in children.

Our clinicians thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits of every treatment option with patients and their parents. Our priority is ensuring both the patient and parent feel comfortable with the prescribed medication.

Are there any resources available for people with ADHD?

We recommend chadd.org for children with ADHD. Russell A. Barkley, Ph.D., is one of our favorite authors for ADHD resources for patients (adult or child) and loved ones (parents, spouses, siblings). There are also summer camps, magazines, podcasts, and therapists our clinic is happy to recommend.

Are there doctors for ADHD in Austin, TX?

If you’re looking for an ADHD doctor near you, Specialty Clinic in Austin offers in-person appointments at our north Austin location, as well as telehealth appointments. Our team of providers has decades of experience diagnosing ADHD in adults and children and providing you with personalized care.

References:

Information

Medically reviewed by:

Charles Sweet, MD, MPH

Dr. Sweet is a native Texan and attended The University of Texas at Austin for undergraduate studies. He earned his Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health degrees at the University of Illinois and then did residency training at the prestigious Johns Hopkins Hospital, Dr. Sweet came back to Austin, TX for specialized training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has been in practice since 2009.

Dr. Sweet believes strongly in working with, and training Physician Assistants to treat the behavioral health needs of adults, children and adolescents.

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