What are the Major Differences Between ADD and ADHD?
ADD. ADHD. People use these terms interchangeably to describe the attention-deficit condition that affects approximately 9.4% of children and 4.4% of adults, according to the CDC. But are ADD and ADHD the same thing? And if not, what are the differences between them?
Experts used to refer to attention-deficit disorder primarily as ADD but that has since changed, and ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) is now the preferred term. However, this is confusing because not everybody with the condition is hyperactive. Brain SPECT imaging at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD, and surprisingly, there is only 1 type in which hyperactivity is always a symptom.
Brain SPECT imaging at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD/ADHD, and surprisingly, there is only 1 type in which hyperactivity is always a symptom.
HYPERACTIVITY AND THE 7 TYPES OF ADD/ADHD
The 7 types of ADD/ADHD are:- Classic
- Inattentive
- Overfocused
- Temporal Lobe
- Limbic
- Ring of Fire
- Anxious
WHY NON-HYPERACTIVE ADHD OFTEN GOES UNDIAGNOSED
Because hyperactivity is highly noticeable to other people, it is often what prompts an assessment for ADHD. On the contrary, people with non-hyperactive ADHD are more likely to fly under the radar. Symptoms such as being inattentive, being a daydreamer, or seeming bored aren’t as readily identifiable and aren’t always associated with the condition. For this reason, people who are missing the “H” in ADHD are more likely to remain undiagnosed. This is especially important for females, in whom inattentive ADHD is more common. People who are missing the “H” in ADHD are more likely to remain undiagnosed. A lack of diagnosis means these individuals don’t receive the treatment they need to overcome their symptoms. Having any type of untreated ADHD is associated with an increased risk of depression, substance abuse, divorce, obesity, and other issues that further compound symptoms.7 TREATMENTS FOR ALL TYPES OF ADHD
There are many treatments that are beneficial for all people with ADHD, including non-hyperactive ADHD.- Take a 100% multIvitamin every day. Research shows that they help prevent chronic illness and help people with learning.
- Take omega-3 fatty acids in the form of high-quality fish oil. Recommended dosages are about 2,000 – 6,000mg for adults and 1,000 – 2,000mg for children. According to research, fish oil that is higher in the EPA form of omega-3s may be the most helpful, however, it depends on which type of ADHD a person has.
- Skip caffeine and ditch nicotine. These substances interfere with sleep, which may worsen symptoms.
- Aim for 30-45 minutes of daily exercise. Table tennis is the world’s best brain game, but any brain-safe activity will do.
- Set limits on digital device time. Strive for less than 30 minutes a day. This may be difficult, but it can be highly beneficial.
- Eat for the ADHD brain. Most people with ADHD do best with a higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate diet.
- Never give up seeking help and target treatments to your specific type of ADD/ADHD.




