ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will also consider how you feel in various situations, such as at home, school and in social settings. They will also determine how long you've been experiencing these symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
Speak to your child's doctor should you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. They can check for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to fill out questionnaires and may request them to take some tests. They can also conduct a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves that are more frequent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present before the child reached the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two important environments, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults, doctors use mental health guidelines that provide an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment.
Children often struggle to tell the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents may overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which could cause depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which are detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can cause financial problems or even bankruptcy. It is essential for children to receive a correct diagnosis to assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to organize or is having trouble staying focused in class, have trouble following instructions at work, suffer from social problems, or have other concerns that could be due to ADHD It is crucial to see a doctor to get an evaluation. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists, can help make the diagnosis. Certain primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extended interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will examine the patient's medical, mental and family history to determine other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions like thyroid disease or head injuries, as well as some drugs can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety can also occur 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. Along with a thorough physical examination, the clinician will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, focusing on the frequency with which they miss class or fails to finish homework. The doctor will also request to speak to other people involved in the person's daily life, including coaches and teachers. They may request that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be able and willing to talk about their thoughts with the examiner. They should not be afraid to be judged or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a relief. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success and it gives you steps to take to control your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed up by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health problems like depression or anxiety. Other illnesses, such as a chronic headache or sleep disorder, can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
A mental health professional or health care provider will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will review the person's life history back to childhood, ask about the person's school experience and how their family members interact with each with each. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to spatial space) and reasoning skills.
Many people with ADHD find that exercising and diet help reduce their symptoms. They should stay clear of the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also follow a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available so they don't miss meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or other professionals you are comfortable with for suggestions. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also call your insurance company to find out if they are certified to evaluate adults, or call an area medical institution or hospital. It is important to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at home, school, work, and in social settings. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also have side effects such as problems sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be used with certain other drugs such as those for depression, high blood pressure, and heart issues. Health professionals suggest that adolescents and children undergo an entire physical examination including hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Patients should be informed about the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle, and previous medical issues.
The physician must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they hinder the person'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 for making a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The clinician will examine the symptoms in order to determine their severity, and to rule out any other conditions that could be the cause. visit website with a learning disorder often show symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. A person with anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed. The clinician will also look at whether the person has any medical issues such as thyroid issues that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a variety of tests, like cognitive testing or brain imaging to determine how the symptoms are affecting the individual. He may also suggest a full medical evaluation, along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Consult your doctor if you think that you might have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how symptoms affect your or your child's daily life, and help you determine whether medication is needed. They can also provide other options for treatment, such as the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor isn't able to conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are readily available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can assist in managing various mental health issues, such as ADHD. Session take place via video or audio chat and are confidential.
It is essential that you feel comfortable and confident with the online counselor. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they are hesitant to do so, it may be a sign that they are not qualified or uninterested in working with adults who suffer from ADHD.
It can be difficult to obtain an ADHD diagnosis however it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you understand that the difficulties you have with focus and organization aren't a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
It is normal for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to manage ADHD and other disorders.