ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to an expert. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also look over any medical history you have.
They will check how your symptoms impact you in various settings, such as school, home and social settings. They will also determine the length of time you've experienced these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
Consult your child's physician If you think he or she may have ADHD. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out questionnaires and may request them to take certain tests. They could also take physical exams, including eye and hearing tests. They can also use FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves that are more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present before the child reaches the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two important situations, like 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 use the psychiatric guidelines, which include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration as well as the level of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more common ADHD symptoms due to children's difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behaviors. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People with ADHD might also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which may lead them to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and use drugs, which can be detrimental to their health. The disorder could cause problems with finances or even bankruptcies because of the insanity. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis as it will help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have struggled to stay organized or is having trouble staying focused in class, have difficulty following directions at work, suffer from issues with social interaction, or other issues that could be due to ADHD, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists can help make an assessment. Certain primary care providers have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will look into the patient's medical, mental, and family history to determine if there are any other issues that may be causing symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders or head injuries, as well as certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and mood disorders, 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. The clinician will also inquire about the person’s home and school life, such as the frequency they skip classes or fail to complete their homework. The doctor may also want to speak with other people in the patient's life, including coaches and teachers and may ask that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be willing and able to freely discuss their opinions with the examiner. They should not be afraid of being criticised or judged. This will enhance the quality of the evaluation and increase the chances that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or you. It can help you realize that it's not just laziness or insanity standing in the way of success. It also gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed with treatment. Adults with ADHD frequently have other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will ask about the person's childhood as well as their education and how their family interacts. They will also use ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercising and diet help reduce their symptoms. They should stay clear of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also follow an appropriate diet and make sure to schedule meals and keep healthy snacks in their fridge so that they don't have to skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your physician or therapist, or from other reputable professionals like a teacher. You can also contact the local hospital or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or contact your insurance company to find a list of those who are certified to evaluate adults. It is crucial to find a doctor with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at school, at home or at work, as well as in social situations. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also have adverse effects, such as problems sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart problems. Health professionals suggest that adolescents and children undergo an extensive physical exam, including eye and hearing tests prior to starting medication. Patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also ask about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and previous medical problems.
In order to make a diagnosis, the clinician must closely examine the patient 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 for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The doctor will look at the symptoms to determine the severity of the symptoms, and to rule out other conditions that may be responsible for them. People who suffer from a learning disorder often show ADHD-like symptoms. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed. The clinician will also examine whether the patient has any medical issues, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, such as a cognitive test or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical examination, as well as tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also help you determine whether medication is required by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or you. They can also discuss alternative options for treatment, like the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family physician isn't able to conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can assist in managing a range of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions take place via audio and video chat, and are confidential and secure.
When choosing an online counseling specialist it is crucial to feel at ease and trust with them. Ask about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD and ensure that they can answer your questions in depth. If they refuse to answer your questions, it could be a sign they're not qualified or unwilling to be a professional working with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be challenging to receive an ADHD diagnosis however it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking control of your life. It can help you realize that your issues in focusing and organization aren't read more the result of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
It is common for people suffering from ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact, and help you learn to cope with them.