ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if you think you might have ADHD. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also go over your medical history.
They will check the impact of your symptoms in different environments, such as at school, at home and social situations. They will also look at how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
If you think your child might have ADHD Talk to your doctor. They can look for signs by asking you and their teachers to complete a questionnaire, and they might request them to take some tests. They can also conduct a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves which are more prevalent in children who suffer from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs have been present for a long time before the child reached age 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two key environments, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults doctors employ psychiatric guidelines that include specific information about the symptoms and their duration, as well as the level of impairment.
Parents may miss some of the more typical ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People with ADHD are also prone to problems with relationships and self-esteem, which can lead to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which could cause serious harm to their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can lead to financial issues 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 family member has struggled to stay organized or is having trouble staying focused in class, have difficulty following instructions at work, experience social issues, or other concerns that could be due to ADHD It is crucial to consult with a physician to get an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can assist in determining an assessment. Certain primary care providers are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process consists of an extended interview and discussion of symptoms. The health professional will look into the patient's medical, mental and family history to determine if there are any other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain drugs can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health conditions, such as mood disorders and anxiety, can also be a result of ADHD and create 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, including how frequently they miss class or do not finish their homework. The clinician will also ask to speak with other people who are involved in the person's daily life, such as coaches and teachers. They 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 hold back information out of fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chance that a diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD, getting a diagnosis is a relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success and it gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis must be followed-up by treatment. Adults with ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, could produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will inquire about the child's life, their schooling and how the family interacts. They will also employ standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive function, visual and spatial skills (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for a lot of people with ADHD. They should avoid the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also maintain a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and keep healthy snacks on hand so that they don't have to miss meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist or other trusted professionals, such as an educator. You can also call your insurance provider to find out if they are licensed to evaluate adults or contact an area medical hospital or school. It is important to find a specialist who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at home, school or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social situations. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined alongside other medications such as those for depression or high blood pressure and heart problems. Before starting a medication, health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a thorough physical examination, which includes hearing and eye tests. Patients should be informed about the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle, and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
The physician must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they impact the patient's ability to function in multiple environments. 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 ADHD/ADD.
The doctor will look at the symptoms in order to determine the severity of the symptoms, and also to rule out other disorders that may be responsible for them. For instance, those who have a learning disability often have symptoms reminiscent of ADHD and someone with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient suffers from an illness such as thyroid disease, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor might suggest battery test, like a cognitive test or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. He may also suggest a full medical evaluation, along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
Speak to your doctor if you think that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can provide referrals here to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also talk about how symptoms affect your or your child's daily routine and help you determine whether medication is required. They can also explain other options for treatment such as the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family physician isn't able to provide a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, you can search online for specialists in Telemedicine. Amwell, for example connects patients to licensed providers who can manage various mental health issues like ADHD. Session take place via video or audio chat and are completely confidential.
When choosing an online counselor, it is important to feel secure and confident with them. Ask them about their experiences and training for adults with ADHD. Be sure that 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 not qualified or are not willing to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be a challenge to obtain an ADHD diagnosis, but it is a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you understand that the issues you face with focus and organization aren't the result of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. A therapist can assist you to learn how your ADHD and other conditions interact, and help you learn to cope with them.