ADD Testing in Mansfield, Southlake, & McKinney, TX
While attention deficit disorder (ADD) has certainly gotten a lot of acknowledgment over the last decade or so, it’s also lead more and more parents to believe that their child’s occasional outbursts, hyperactivity or defiance could be due to ADD, when it may not always be the case.
Children with this neurobehavioral disorder are unable to focus their attention on any one task. Their brain is constantly telling them to do multiple things at once, which leads to this inability to concentrate. Because of this, this inability to pay attention often results in disruptive and impulsive behaviors.
ADD Signs & Symptoms
These are some of the signs and symptoms of ADD:
- Frequent squirming and fidgeting
- Chronic hand and foot movements
- Problems remaining still
- Running when it’s not appropriate
- Frequent excessive talking
- Difficulty focusing on details
- Difficulty listening and following directions
- Disorganization and losing things
- Distraction and forgetfulness
How Your Pediatrician Can Determine If Your Child Has ADD
Your child can be screened for ADD using several screening tools and testing. Your pediatrician may also ask you and your child questions about behavior, ability to focus, and other issues.
Treatment of ADD
If your child is diagnosed with ADD, a combination of treatment methods may be indicated, including:
- Behavioral counseling, which is helpful to minimize inappropriate behaviors
- Lifestyle counseling, which may include dietary and exercise modifications
- Medication therapy, which is helpful to improve the way the brain functions and sharpen focus and ability to concentrate
The Importance of Treating ADD
Untreated ADD can develop into problems which your child can carry into adulthood. Potential difficulties of untreated ADD may include:
- Poor grades
- Learning difficulties
- Aggressive, violent behaviors
- Difficulty making and keeping friends
- Difficulty establishing personal relationships
- Problems with concentration
- Poor performance at work
- Difficulty working with others