The Difference Between ADD and ADHD Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is the umbrella disorder, encompassing three sub-groups. These three groups are defined as follows: ADD Inattentive Type A main characteristic of inattentive behavior is the inability to concentrate and focus. This lack of attention may only be noticed when a child enters the challenging environment of school. This is not classified as ADHD, as hyperactivity is not present. ADD Hyperactive/Impulsive Type A child with hyperactive and impulsive behavior is commonly ‘all over the place’ and very active (both mentally and physically), making hasty decisions at any moment. This is classified as ADHD, as hyperactivity is present. ADD Combined Type ADD child symptoms of inattentive type are combined with the symptoms of hyperactive/impulsive type. This is the most common form of ADD. A child with more than six ADD combined type symptoms should have a comprehensive evaluation. This is classified as ADHD, as hyperactivity is present How does ADHD Manifest in Children? To their family, classmates, or teachers, children with ADHD seem difficult and hard to manage. However, children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are not bad, lazy, or stupid. These children have a disorder that can make it difficult for them to follow instructions or participate in activities. Parents are naturally concerned when their child's disruptive behavior, as it can cause numerous meetings with the school faculty. Even though the child with ADHD often wants to be a good student, the erratic behavior can be very troublesome - so much so that it interferes with their ability to live normal lives. Although attention deficit hyperactive disorder in children is a relatively new phrase, the disorder was first described by Dr. Heinrich Hoffman in 1845. "The Story of Fidgety Philip" was an accurate description of a little boy who had ADHD. Since then, several thousand scientific papers on the disorder have been published. ADHD is not itself considered a learning disability, but the ADHD child symptoms can lead to problems with learning, thus creating obstacles in a child's academic development. It is important to have a child thoroughly evaluated to determine if learning disabilities are present. Learning disabilities are common in children with ADHD, but not all children with learning disorders have ADHD. ADHD does not affect intelligence, as children with the disorder span the same IQ range as the general population.

Diagnosing ADHD in Children Many of the techniques and principles used to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children are the same as those used to diagnose  ADHD in Adults including teens. Alternative Testing Methods There are no objective means (i.e. blood tests) of diagnosing ADHD at this time, although your health care professional/ psychologist may see other signs or symptoms in your child that warrant blood tests, brain imaging studies or an EEG. What Causes ADHD in Children? One of the first questions a parent will ask is "Why is this affecting my child? What went wrong?" or even "Did I do something to cause this?" When correctly diagnosed, there is little evidence that ADHD arises purely from social factors or child-rearing methods. Experts in the field are finding more and more evidence that legitimate ADHD does not stem from the home environment, but from biological causes. Knowing this can remove a huge burden of guilt from parents who might blame themselves for their child's behavior. Other possible causes of ADHD type symptoms are food intolerance, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), allergies, low muscle tone, perceptual difficulties, nutritional problems, candida, hyperthyroidism, Tourette's Syndrome, brain dysfunction, family and emotional problems, poor discipline, depression, and other conditions. Each of these problems would require different treatment and may even be exacerbated by Ritalin or other prescription medication for ADHD, making correct diagnosis and evaluation even more important. Researchers suspect that there are several factors that may contribute to the condition, including: Heredity and genetics: The fact that ADHD tends to run in families suggests that children may inherit a genetic tendency to develop an attention-deficit disorder from their parents. Chemical imbalance: Children who have ADHD do not make enough chemicals in key areas of the brain that are responsible for organizing thought or suppressing hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Brain changes: Areas of the brain that control attention are less active in children with ADHD than in children without the disorder.   The Myths Surrounding the Causes of ADHD Although the following factors may present symptoms similar to those of ADHD, research has shown that there is no evidence that ADHD is caused by the following: Immunizations Too much TV Poor home life Poor schools or colleges Bad parenting Aspartame (or sugar substitutes) Lack of vitamins Fluorescent lights Video games However, in some cases, the above factors could certainly cause symptoms similar to those seen in ADD in certain individuals, and it is worth investigating their impact if a link is suspected.                    Are Certain Children More Likely to Develop ADHD? A child might have a greater chance of developing ADHD if one of their relatives already has ADHD or another type of behavioral disorder. Two to three times more boys than girls suffer with ADHD, though the disorder is being identified increasingly in girls. ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder of children. It most often is discovered during the early school years, when a child begins to have problems paying attention. Help for Children with ADHD ADHD is often treated using conventional prescription medications. While there is a place for prescription medication in certain cases of ADHD, careful consideration should be taken regarding possible side effects and cautions. There are also alternative treatment options available for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Making simple changes in diet, sleep, exercise and routine can help. Even trying more involved approaches like incorporating relaxation therapies such as guided imagery, meditation techniques or yoga can be beneficial. There are also many herbal and homeopathic remedies which can help maintain harmony, health and systemic balance in the brain and nervous system, without side effects or sedation. These products are known for their supportive function in maintaining brain, nervous system and circulatory health, and well-being.

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