ADHD/ADD Treatment in Plano, TX

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD) are common behavior conditions that typically begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. Patients who suffer from these disorders often have trouble concentrating, organizing, sitting still, and struggle with impulsive behavior. These mannerisms can affect a patient's ability to perform well in school and in the workplace. If you suspect you or your child have ADHD or ADD, contact Nest Family Medicine in Plano, TX to set up an appointment with family practitioner Dr. Priti Ranjan.

ADHD and ADD are believed to be caused by inherited characteristics and genetics. Depending on the specific disorder, symptoms will vary. The most common signs of having one of these behavioral disorders include:

• Having a short attention span and being easily distracted
• Excessive activity, restlessness, or constant fidgeting
• Problems following through and completing tasks
• Difficulty focusing on a single task or juggling multiple projects
• Disorganization and problems prioritizing
• Impulsiveness or being unable to wait their turn
• Short temper or frequent mood swings
• Excessive talking or constant interruption of conversations
• Trouble planning

ADHD and ADD are typically diagnosed based on a medical history evaluation and examination. Patients are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible about their daily habits and symptoms. However, there is no single test that can be used to diagnose ADHD. Instead, a set of criteria must be met for a patient to meet the requirement. Dr. Ranjan will review the symptoms with you and determine whether or not your child is exhibiting behaviors that are characteristic of ADHD.

The first step in managing ADHD or ADD is to get tested. From there, Dr. Ranjan can discuss different treatment options. On average, these behavior disorders are treated with prescription medication. There is a wide variety of drugs that can help, and Dr. Ranjan can adjust the dosage to see what works best for you or your child. Other recommendations may include cognitive behavioral therapy, psychological counseling, and anger management.

What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

From a technical standpoint, there is no difference between ADHD and ADD. The term ADD is now considered to be outdated, though it refers to an inattentive version of ADHD that generally leads to disorganization, lack of focus, and forgetfulness. However, nowadays, ADHD is considered to be the proper medical term even if the patient does not exhibit hyperactivity.

Are ADD and ADHD treatable?

While these conditions cannot be prevented or cured, they can be effectively treated using modern medicine. An early diagnosis and a proper treatment plan are critical to keeping patients — especially children — on track throughout their day.

Will ADHD eventually go away without treatment?

No. However, people with ADHD that goes untreated do tend to develop coping skills that allow their body to ignore some mild symptoms of the condition. However, the presence of ADHD never truly goes away without treatment.

Our goal at Nest Family Medicine is to help you discover the best solution for you or your child. Whether that's through prescription medication or behavioral support, we are here to guide you through all of your options. We care about our patients and want to see them succeed socially, academically, and corporately. Reach out to our office in Plano, TX today to schedule a behavioral assessment. Our clinic accepts a wide variety of healthcare plans.