ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect that you may be suffering from 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 have.
They will check how your symptoms affect you in various settings, such as home, school and social settings. They will also determine the length of time you've experienced these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you think your child may have ADHD, talk to their doctor. Your child's teacher and you can fill out a questionnaire to check for symptoms. They can also request that they take a few tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including eye and ear tests. They can also make use of the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain 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 must cause significant impairment in two main environments, like school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors to diagnose adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Parents might not be aware of the more typical ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People with ADHD can also have problems with self-esteem and relationships which can cause depression. They often have trouble getting sufficient sleep, and sleeping insufficiently can make the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and take drugs, which can be detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. It is crucial 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, have difficulty following instructions at work, experience social issues, or other issues that could be related to ADHD, it is important to consult a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists can help you make an assessment. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process consists of an extended interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care professional will look over the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to identify other conditions that may be causing the symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid diseases, head injuries and certain medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety 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. The clinician will also ask about the person’s home and school activities, including the frequency they skip classes or fail to complete their homework. The doctor will also request to speak to other people who are part of the person's everyday life, including teachers and coaches. They may also request that the person bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be willing and able to openly discuss their opinions with the examiner. They should not be afraid of being criticised or judged. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence that is preventing your success and it gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, may be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider will examine the patient and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will inquire about the child's life, their schooling and how their family interacts. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive function, visual and spatial abilities (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Many people suffering from ADHD find that exercising and diet reduce the symptoms. They should stay away from caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also follow healthy food and plan their meals at the right times and have healthy snacks in their fridge so that they don't miss meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your doctor or therapist or from other trusted professionals like a teacher. You can also reach out to the local hospital or medical school to get the names of qualified specialists or contact your insurance company to get an overview of the specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is essential to choose a doctor who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has experience diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder control their symptoms and improve their functioning at school, at home or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social settings. However, stimulant medicines used to more info treat ADHD can cause several adverse effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined alongside other medications such as those for depression and high blood pressure and heart problems. Before starting a medication health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a full physical examination, including eye and hearing tests. Health care providers should talk with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about the history of their family, lifestyle, and medical history.
To establish a diagnosis, the clinician must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms persist and significantly impact the person's performance in a variety of settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The doctor will examine the symptoms to determine their severity and also to rule out any other disorders that might cause them. People suffering from learning disorders often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms. A person with anxiety disorder may be incorrectly diagnosed. The clinician will also look at whether the patient suffers from any medical issues, such as thyroid disorders, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a variety of tests, such as cognitive testing or brain imaging, to assess how the symptoms are affecting the individual. He could also suggest an entire medical examination, and lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family physician. They may refer you to specialists who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also discuss how symptoms affect your or your child's everyday life and help you determine if medication is necessary. They can also discuss alternative treatment options like behavior therapy.
If your family doctor isn't able to conduct a thorough analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are readily available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can help manage various mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are completely confidential.
It is important to feel comfortable and confident with your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and education with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they're not willing to do so it could be an indicator that they are unqualified or are not willing to work with adults who suffer from 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 realize that your issues with organization and focus aren't due to lazyness. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs, and a healthy lifestyle.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to manage ADHD and other conditions.