ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you think you might be suffering from ADHD. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also look over your medical background.
They will check how your symptoms impact you in various environments, such as at school, home and social settings. They will also determine how long you've had these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you think your child may have ADHD, talk to your doctor. Your child's teacher and you can fill out an assessment questionnaire to look for signs. They could also request that they take a few tests. They could also take physical exams, including hearing and eye tests. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves that are more prominent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms were present prior to the time the child reached age 12. It should cause significant impairment in two important settings, such as at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD doctors follow psychiatric guidelines that include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration as and the degree of impairment.
Parents may miss some of the more common ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD can also have problems with relationships and self-esteem which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which could have serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. It is essential that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and lead an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has struggled to stay organized or has trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty following directions at work, experience social problems, or have other concerns that could be due to ADHD, it is important to consult a doctor to get an evaluation. A mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help you make an assessment. Certain primary care providers are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extended interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will review the person's medical, mental and family history to determine other conditions that may be causing the symptoms. For example certain medical conditions like thyroid disease or head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health disorders such as mood disorders and anxiety, can also be a result of ADHD and cause problems.
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. Along with a thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, such as the frequency at which the person is absent from classes or fails to complete homework. The clinician may want to talk to other people in the person's life, such as teachers and coaches and may also request that the person bring journals.
The person who is being evaluated should be able to share their feelings openly with the examiner and not keep back information in fear that they will be criticized or judged. This can improve the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for your child or you. It will help you understand that it's not laziness or a lack of intelligence hindering your success. It also gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, like anxiety or depression. Other conditions like chronic headaches or sleep disorders may cause symptoms like ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the individual and their family. They will review the person's past from birth to childhood, and inquire about the person's school experience and how their family members interact with each and with each. They will also employ standard rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people suffering from ADHD find that exercising and diet reduce the symptoms. They should avoid the use of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also adhere to an appropriate diet and ensure they plan meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand so they don't skip meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or any other professional you trust for suggestions. A teacher is a good example. You can also ask the local hospital or medical school to get the names of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to get an overview of the specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It is crucial to find a specialist with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms, and enhance their performance at school, work as well as in social situations. Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger side effects such as difficulties sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be used with certain other drugs for depression, such as those used to treat, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents receive a complete physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to starting medication. Patients should be informed of the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
To establish an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms are persistent and substantially affect the person's ability to function in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The clinician will examine the symptoms to determine their severity, and to rule out other disorders that could be causing them. People with a learning disorder often show ADHD-like symptoms. A person with anxiety disorder get more info could be mistakenly diagnosed. The doctor will also look at whether the patient has any medical issues, such as thyroid disorders, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor might suggest battery test, such as an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and lab tests, such as the complete blood count and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
Speak to your doctor if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also talk about how the symptoms impact your or your child's everyday life and help you determine if medication is necessary. They can also provide alternative options for treatment, for example, therapy for behavior.
If your family doctor isn't able to provide an in-depth assessment of your symptoms you can search online for counselors who specialize in Telemedicine. Amwell, for example connects patients with licensed professionals who can treat a range of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chat and are private and secure.
When choosing a counselor online it is crucial to feel secure and confident with them. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD and make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they refuse to do so, this could be a sign they're not able or willing to work as a professional with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be a challenge to receive an ADHD diagnosis but it's an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It can help you realize that your difficulties with organization and focus aren't due to lazyness. It's also a relief to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and healthy lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help understand how your ADHD and other conditions interact, and help you learn how to deal with them.