Symptoms of ADD, which is an old name for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), include many different aspects of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is an old name for what is now currently referred to as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a common neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms may continue into adulthood.

You or your child may have ADD if symptoms are present such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, which are detailed in the table below.

ADD/ADHD Symptoms Chart
Symptoms	Characteristics
Hyperactivity	Frequent restlessness Excessive fidgeting or squirming Excessive talking Difficulty remaining seated Difficulty playing quietly Always needing to be “on the go”
Impulsivity	Acting impulsively Spending money Getting sexually involved Changing plans Diving into new activities Difficulty waiting turns Blurting out answers too quickly Disruptive classroom behavior Intruding on or interrupting others' activities Difficulty getting along with others/rejection by classmates Unintentional injury Taking unnecessary risks Carelessness Being accident-prone Difficulty resisting temptation Being easily frustrated Saying and doing things without thinking Overdoing things Compulsive shopping Drinking too much Overworking Overeating
Inattention	Forgetfulness Being easily distracted Losing or misplacing things Disorganization Underachievement in school Making careless mistakes Poor follow-through with assignments or tasks Inability to concentrate Lack of attention to detail Daydreaming Procrastination Inability to complete projects Being easily bored Needing a lot of stimulation

What Causes ADD?

The cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (previously called attention deficit disorder, or ADD) is unknown, but genetics are believed to play a role.

Other possible causes and risk factors for ADHD include:

Brain injury
Certain environmental exposures (e.g., lead) during pregnancy or at a young age
Alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy
Premature delivery
Low birth weight

How Is ADD Diagnosed?

There is no single test used to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), (previously called attention deficit disorder, or ADD). Other possible conditions that can have similar symptoms must first be ruled out. Tests may include a medical exam and hearing and vision tests.

The diagnostic criteria defined by the American Psychiatric Association for ADHD includes:

Symptoms must be present in more than one setting (e.g., school and home)
Symptoms must persist for at least six months
Symptoms must be present before the age of 12 years
Symptoms must impair function in academic, social, or occupational activities
Symptoms must be excessive for the age of the child
Other mental disorders that could account for the symptoms must be excluded

What Is the Treatment for ADD?

Treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), (previously called attention deficit disorder, or ADD), is usually a combination of behavior therapy and medication.

Behavioral treatments usually are recommended for preschool-aged children before medications are prescribed. School-aged children with ADHD usually do well with stimulant medicine plus behavioral treatments and counseling if needed. Medications do not cure ADHD, and behavioral treatments are usually needed to help a child learn to follow rules, stay motivated, and work well with others.

Medications used to treat ADHD include:

Stimulants
- Methylphenidate (Concerta, Focalin, Metadate, Methylin, Ritalin, Daytrana)
- Amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Dextrostat, Vyvanse)
  - Despite being stimulants, these medications do not cause children with ADHD to become more stimulated, but rather they work to improve attention, concentration, and self-control
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a nonstimulant medicine used as an alternative

Behavioral treatments for ADHD include:

Keeping distractions to a minimum
Maintaining a schedule
Setting reachable and clear goals
Rewarding positive behavior
Limiting choices
Providing specific places for the child to keep school work, toys, and clothes
Using charts and checklists to help the child stay focused on the task at hand
Taking physical activity breaks during tasks that require attention
Finding activities such as sports or hobbies where the child can be successful
Using calm discipline such as time outs, distractions, or removing the child from the situation

In school, teachers may be able to help students with ADHD by:

Writing homework assignments down
Having the teacher allow the child extra time to complete school work
Providing a daily report card for parents to help monitor the child's symptoms and evaluate how well the current ADHD treatment plan is working
Having the child sit near the front of the classroom
Giving the child a private signal when they veer “off-task”

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References

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/index.html

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/symptoms-and-diagnosis-of-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-children-beyond-the-basics?search=adhd&source=search_result&selectedTitle=5~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=5

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/treatment-of-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-children-beyond-the-basics?search=adhd&topicRef=1210&source=see_link

https://www.additudemag.com/adult-test-for-add-adhd/

How Do I Know If I Am ADD?