Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) refer to the same condition, and often are used interchangeably. ADHD (also written AD/HD) is the official name of the condition as it is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), a diagnostic reference book for physicians. There are three types of ADHD. People with ADHD can have problems concentrating (predominantly inattentive type), have problems with hyperactivity and impulsiveness (predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type), or both (combined type).

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most commonly diagnosed behavioral conditions in children.

ADHD also can co-exist with other conditions, and some conditions can have symptoms that mimic ADHD. For example, many children with ADHD also have a learning disability of some kind. Some children with ADHD also may have other behavior disorders or mood disorders, such as depression — and children who have these disorders may have attention problems even if they don't have ADHD. During some stages of childhood, many children are impulsive, very active, and find it difficult to concentrate. This doesn't mean they all have ADHD. Before a diagnosis is made, your doctor will look for other causes for the behavior. Diagnosis is based on several things, including answers to ADHD questionnaires and guidelines in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), a reference book for physicians. Sometimes psychological and/or academic testing, and possibly a visit with a neurologist, is necessary to better understand what is going on with a child.

Children with ADHD often have a close relative who also has the disorder, and if one identical twin has the disorder, the other usually does too. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 25 percent of the close relatives of a child with ADHD also have ADHD themselves. While much research continues in this area, no specific genes for attention disorders have been identified. Researchers have suggested that other contributing factors could include lead exposure, prenatal factors (such as maternal smoking), traumatic injuries to the brain, and child abuse or neglect. However, no specific causes have been discovered.

Doctors used to think that only children had ADHD, but we now know that adults also can have the disorder. 30–70% of children with ADHD will continue to have symptoms after they grow up. Sometimes adults will be diagnosed only after their children are evaluated for ADHD.

Medications can help control the symptoms of ADHD. The most commonly used medications are stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Adderall). Any medication can have side effects; common side effects of stimulants include trouble sleeping, appetite problems and slowing of growth. It is important to understand the risks and benefits of medication use, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Most physicians also recommend behavior therapy, along with counseling or other support to help children and their families cope with problems. Children with ADHD may have a history of being punished for their behavior or being told they are lazy or stupid. If they were quick to fight with other children, they may have few friends. Counseling can help improve self-esteem and help children learn ways to control their behavior and make friends. Children who are behind in school may need academic help, such as tutoring or special education services, as well as counseling.

The most commonly used ADHD medications are stimulants, and a stimulant may improve anyone's ability to pay attention. People with ADHD typically will respond more noticeably because they have significant problems paying attention to begin with. Overmedication has been a concern over the past few years. Are too many children being given stimulants? It's difficult to say. Doctors are looking at this issue carefully, and they are studying new medications and treatments for ADHD.

People used to think that eating sugar made children hyperactive, so parents were encouraged to cut out sugary foods in their children's diets. In 1982, the National Institutes of Health examined data on the topic and concluded that only about 5 percent of children with ADHD were helped by the diet restrictions, and most of these children had food allergies. Sugar has not been shown to cause hyperactivity in children.