ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you think you might have ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will assess the impact of your symptoms in various situations, including at school, at home and social situations. They will also consider how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
Speak to your child's doctor if you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. Your child's teacher and you can fill out questionnaires to determine signs. They can also request that they take a few tests. They can also do a physical exam, including eye and hearing tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves, which tend to be higher in kids with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms have been present since before the child reached age 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two crucial settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD doctors follow mental health guidelines that provide specific information about the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment.
Children often struggle to tell the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, so parents may overlook some of the most common symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships which can cause depression. They often have trouble getting good quality sleep, and an absence of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which can have serious consequences for their health. The disorder could cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the insanity. It's crucial that kids get a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and lead more fulfilled, happier life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to organize or has trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following instructions at work, suffer from social problems, or have other issues that could be due to ADHD, it is important to consult with a physician for an evaluation. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist can assist in diagnosing ADHD. Certain primary care providers have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process involves a lengthy interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will examine the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to identify other conditions that may be causing the symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health problems like anxiety and mood disorders, can also be associated with ADHD.
A person with ADHD can have either primarily inattention symptoms or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, or both, but the symptoms must be present before age 12 and must continue for at least 6 months. In addition to a complete physical exam, the doctor will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, including the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor will also request to speak to other people who are involved in the person's daily life, including coaches and teachers. They may request that the patient bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be willing and able to discuss their opinions with the assessor. They shouldn't be scared of being criticised or judged. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the probability that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for you or your child. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or a lack of intelligence standing in the way of success, and also provides steps to take to control your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other diseases, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the person and their family. They will look over the person's life history back to childhood, ask about the person's school experience and how family members interact with one and with each. They will also employ standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive functioning spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should avoid the use of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also follow a healthy diet and ensure they plan meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand so they don't have to skip meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or any other professional you are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is a good example. You can also reach out to an institution affiliated with a university or medical school for the names of qualified specialists or contact your insurance company to obtain a list of those who are licensed to evaluate adults. It is essential to choose a doctor who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms, as well as improve their functioning at work, school, home and in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can cause a number of side effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be taken in conjunction with other medications, including those for depression and high blood pressure and heart conditions. Before beginning treatment health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a full physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle and medical history.
The doctor must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they impact the patient's ability to function in more than one environment. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for making a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The clinician will review the symptoms to determine the severity and to rule out other conditions that could cause them. For instance, those who suffer from a learning disability frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder may be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The clinician will also consider whether the patient has a medical condition, such as thyroid disease, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician may suggest a battery tests, such a cognitive test or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend an extensive medical evaluation along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or you. They can also explain alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family doctor cannot conduct an exhaustive assessment of your symptoms you can find online specialists in Telemedicine. Amwell, for example connects patients to licensed professionals who can treat various mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video and audio chats, and are confidential and secure.
When choosing an online counseling specialist, it is important to feel secure and confident with them. Ask about their training and experience with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they are hesitant to answer your questions this could be an indicator that they are unqualified or unwilling to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be difficult to receive an ADHD diagnosis but it's an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It can help you realize that your issues with focus and organization are not a result of inability to focus. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. prev who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs, and healthy lifestyles.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric conditions like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can assist you to learn how your ADHD and other disorders interact, and help you learn to cope with them.