ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you think you might be suffering from ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also review any medical history you have.
They will also examine how you feel in different situations, including at school, at home and in social situations. They will also check how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you think your child might have ADHD Talk to your doctor. You and your child's teachers can complete a questionnaire to check for signs. They could also ask them to take some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including eye and ear tests. They can also utilize FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves that are more prominent in children who suffer from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs have been present since before the child reached the age of 12. It must cause significant disability in two important environments, such as school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors in diagnosing adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration, and the level of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to discern the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents might overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which can lead them to depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and use drugs, which can be harmful to their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can cause financial problems or even bankruptcy. It is essential that children receive an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and live a happier, more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member has struggled to stay organized, have trouble paying attention in class, have difficulty following directions at work, experience social problems, or have other concerns that could be due to ADHD, it is important to consult with a physician to get an evaluation. A mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist can help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will look over the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to look for other conditions that may be causing the symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, head injuries and certain medications can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health disorders such as mood disorders and anxiety, are also a possibility with 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 ask about the person's home and school life, such as how frequently they miss class or fail to complete their homework. The doctor will also request to talk to any other individuals who are part of the person's everyday life, such as teachers and coaches. They might request that the patient bring journals.
The person who is being evaluated should be willing to discuss their feelings with the examiner and not keep back information out of fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a great relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success. It also gives you steps to take to control your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other conditions like chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear like ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will inquire about the child's life and their schooling, as well as how the family interacts. They will also employ the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people suffering from ADHD discover that exercise and diet can help reduce their symptoms. They should stay clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet and ensure they plan meals and keep healthy snacks in their fridge so that they don't have to skip meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or other professionals you are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is a good example. You can also call your insurance company to find out who's certified to evaluate adults or contact the nearest medical institution or hospital. It's crucial to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at school, at home or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social situations. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD may also cause a number of side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be taken in conjunction with other medications, including those for depression or high blood pressure and heart conditions. Before starting medication, health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical examination, which includes hearing and eye tests. Health care providers should talk with patients about the advantages and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle and medical history.
The physician must examine the patient closely to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing, and if they affect the person's ability to function in more than one setting. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD are defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The clinician will examine the symptoms in order to determine the severity of the symptoms, and to rule out other disorders that could be responsible for them. For instance, people who suffer from a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The physician will also consider whether the person has an illness such as thyroid disease, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, like a cognitive testing or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. He may also suggest an extensive medical evaluation as well as tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
Talk to your doctor if you believe that you may have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also provide other options for treatment, such as therapy for behavior.
If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who are specialists in telemedicine are readily available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can assist in managing a variety of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
It is crucial that you feel at ease and confident with the online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training for adults with ADHD. Be sell that they can answer your questions with precision. If they are hesitant to do so this could be an indicator that they are not qualified or unwilling to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult however it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you realize that the difficulties you have with organization and focus aren't a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and healthy lifestyles.
It is normal for people with ADHD to suffer from other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to manage ADHD and other disorders.