Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been making a lot of headlines. It’s been identified as being common in children but ADD/ADHD can occur in patients of all ages. The disorder has some well-known symptoms, including difficulty focusing, being inattentive, having hyperactivity, and being possibly more impulsive. These symptoms can create problems in various areas of someone’s life. Dr. Patel can work with you on creating a comprehensive treatment plan that works if you are struggling with symptoms of ADD/ADHD.
Diagnosis And Treatment Services For ADD/ADHD
For many years ADHD was primarily considered a childhood disorder. This has led to an adult population that is unaware of their condition and the methods for managing it. Diagnosing the disorder in adults starts with a full medical and mental health evaluation to include taking a thorough history and a review of symptoms. Checklists and adult rating scales are also used to determine the presence and severity of ADD/ADHD in adults. Once diagnosed, a variety of strategies are used to manage the symptoms. These include minimizing distractions, improving organization, structure, and planning on a daily basis, and involving others who are willing to help keep the patient focused and offer support.
There are three commonly diagnosed types of ADHD. Each type is defined by a set of common symptoms. When these symptoms have appeared in a patient for a period of six months or more, a diagnosis can be considered. Below are two types of ADD/ADHD, and their symptoms may include:
Inattentive Type:
- Not detail-oriented, makes careless mistakes at school or work
- Struggles to remain focused on activities or tasks for long periods of time
- “Phases out” in conversations, not seeming to be present
Difficulty sticking to instructions - Has trouble completing chores, schoolwork, or job duties
- Struggles with the organization in work and tasks
- Frequently misses deadlines
- Commonly misplaces items including cell phones, eyeglasses, wallets, keys, etc
- Has trouble remembering to return phone calls, keep appointments, and pay bills
Hyperactive/impulsive Type:
- Fidgeting
- Trouble staying seated
- Climbs and runs at inappropriate times
- On the go, rarely at rest
- Cannot stay quiet for leisure activities
- Constantly talking
- Attempts to answer questions before they’re completed
- Difficulty waiting, impatient
Frequently interrupts others
Dr. Alkesh Patel uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and evidence-based medications to help patients with ADD/ADHD manage their symptoms. It’s common for those who believe they have the disorder to develop different presentations based on the types of symptoms they experience. Common cognitive presentations experienced can include:
- Combined Presentation – If symptoms of both criteria are experienced over the past 6 months or more, then it is considered a combined presentation.
- Predominantly Inattentive Presentation – If enough symptoms of inattentiveness are present over the last six months without hyperactive symptoms, then it’s a predominately inattentive presentation.
- Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation – If enough symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsiveness occur over the past 6 months without inattentive symptoms, then it’s considered a hyperactive-impulsive presentation.
Call today to arrange an assessment with Dr. Alkesh Patel. He will work with you to identify if your symptoms indicate ADD/ADHD. If diagnosed, he can help you build a plan for effective treatment. Come see him today in New York City.
