Dr. Dennis E. Go, MD

Treatment can include stimulant medications and behavioral therapy to teach patients ways to navigate their world and control symptoms better. In addition to treatment, accommodations at school or work can greatly help people with ADHD improve their productivity and confidence. A structured environment (with lots of organization and well-defined rules) seems to help most children with ADHD function at their best.

ADHD is mainly thought of as a disorder that affects children, but symptoms can last into adulthood for many. In adults, ADHD has similar symptoms as when it is seen in children: impulsive behavior and difficulty maintaining focus. These symptoms can cause problems in both careers and relationships. Additionally, adults with ADHD are at increased risk for substance abuse. Medications can be an important part of treatment for adults, as well as learning stress reduction techniques and organization skills. Specialized ADHD coaches can help adults with ADHD manage their symptoms and thrive in life.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. This includes coronary artery disease, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and congenital heart disease. Some conditions, such as genetics, cannot be controlled. But there are many other things one can do to lower their risk for heart disease. Controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing or stopping smoking, exercising more and losing weight if needed, and eating a diet low in sodium can all protect the heart.

Angina is a squeezing type of chest pain that happens when the muscles around the heart don't get enough oxygen. It can be regular or infrequent. Usually, angina is caused by coronary heart disease. However, not all chest pain is angina. Chest pain can also be caused by a lung infection or panic attack, for example, so it is important to have any sudden pain checked.

Arrhythmia is the word for when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly with skipped beats. It can feel frightening, and depending on the type it can be dangerous, but in most cases arrhythmia is not serious and can be treated. It is very common, especially in older adults.

Heart valve problems can happen in any one of the the heart's four valves that keep blood flowing where it needs to go. Babies can be born with problems in their heart valves, or valves can be damaged by infections. The valves can stiffen and become less mobile, or they can stop closing properly and 'leak' when the heart beats. Valve problems can usually be repaired surgically.