ADD and ADHD

Do you or your child struggle to stay focused when performing daily tasks? If yes, you may need to come see Dr. Layne Hermansen for an official diagnosis and treatment for ADD or ADHD, also known as attention-deficit disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Since 1994, ADHD has replaced the term ADD, and ADD is now considered to be an inattentive type of ADHD. Symptoms of ADD and ADHD typically begin in the childhood years and can persist even as an adult. We usually see differences in behavior in three types of ADHD:

Inattentive: Most commonly seen in children and adults who have trouble focusing and paying attention to details. Common signs of this type are:

• Misplacing important items frequently, like a wallet, cell phone, keys, etc.
• Having trouble listening while others are talking
• Having difficulty in organizing daily tasks at work or school
• Failing to notice details and follow instructions carefully

Hyperactive/Impulsive: People who live with this type of ADHD experience more impulsive thoughts and actions. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Having difficulty waiting for their turn
• Frequently interrupts during a conversation
• Struggling to be quiet in leisure activities
• Consistently fidgets and move around a lot
• Talks excessively and blurts out inappropriate comments

Combined: The most common type of ADHD where people are both inattentive and are prone to hyperactivity. Signs you may have this type are if you:

• Have trouble working on and completing tasks
• Make quick decisions without much thought and input from others
• Often forget to remember important life events and items you need check off during the week

Treatment for Those Living With ADD or ADHD

Depending on the type of ADD or ADHD you have, our family doctor will work with you to discuss which type of treatment is the right fit for you. This may be a prescription of Adderall or other natural remedies to help control symptoms. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Layne Hermansen here at My Family Doctor and learn more about ADD and ADHD in Draper, Utah, please contact us at 801-542-7111.