ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect you have ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also review any medical history you may have.
They will assess how your symptoms affect you in various situations, including at school, at home, and social situations. They will also check how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you think your child may have ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. They can check for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out an assessment form and request them to take certain tests. They can also do physical exams, including hearing and eye tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves, which tend to be higher in kids with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two primary situations, such as work and school. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults doctors follow mental health guidelines that provide an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration as and the degree of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more common ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviors. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD can also have problems with self-esteem and relationships which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which can have serious consequences for their health. The disorder can cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due the impulsiveness. It is essential that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and lead an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been struggling to organize or is having trouble staying focused in class, are having difficulty adhering to instructions at work, have social problems, or have other issues that could be related to ADHD It is crucial to consult a doctor to get an assessment. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help make a diagnosis. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The process of evaluation will include an extensive interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will review the person's mental, medical and family history to determine if there are other conditions that could be causing symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases and head injuries as well as some drugs can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders, may also be present in conjunction 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 examination, the clinician will ask about the person's life at home and at school, focusing on how often the person misses class or fails to finish homework. The doctor will also request to speak with other people involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They might request that the patient bring a journal.
The person being evaluated should be able and willing to talk about their thoughts with the assessor. They shouldn't be afraid to be judged or criticized. This will increase the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that a diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD being diagnosed can be a source of relief. It will help you understand that it's not laziness or a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success, and also provides steps to take to control your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often have other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Other illnesses, such as a chronic headache or sleep disorder, may cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the person and family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will look over the person's past from birth to childhood, and inquire about the person's school experience and how their family members interact with one other. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that evaluate executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space) and reasoning skills.
Many people with ADHD discover that exercise and diet can reduce the symptoms. They should stay clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also follow healthy food and make sure to schedule 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 trust for suggestions. A teacher is a good example. You can also call your insurance provider to find out who is certified to assess adults, or visit the nearest medical institution or hospital. It is crucial to find a doctor who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at school, at home or at work, as well as in social settings. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can also trigger a number of side effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be taken alongside other medications, including those for depression and high blood pressure and heart conditions. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo an extensive physical exam that includes hearing and eye 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 family history and lifestyle habits as well as prior medical problems.
In order to make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must examine the person closely to determine if the symptoms persist and substantially affect the person's ability to function in multiple settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an official diagnostic manual released by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and rule out other disorders that might cause them. People who suffer from learning disorders often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms. A person with anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed. The physician will also consider whether the patient has an illness like thyroid disorders, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a variety of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and lab tests, such as an entire blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Speak to your doctor if you believe that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can provide referrals to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also discuss alternative treatment options like behavior therapy.
If your family physician isn't able to conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who specialize in telemedicine can be found. Amwell, for example, connects patients to licensed providers who can manage a variety of mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through audio and video chat and are secure and confidential. secure.
It is crucial to feel comfortable and confident with your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training with adults with ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer all your questions with precision. If they are reluctant to do so, it may be a sign that they are unqualified or unwilling to work with adults with ADHD.
It can be difficult to obtain an ADHD diagnosis but it's a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking control of your life. It can help you understand that your issues with organization and focus aren't a sign of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help understand how your ADHD and other disorders interact and can help read more you learn to cope with them.