ADHD Diagnosis

If you suspect you have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to an expert. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also review your medical history.

They will also consider how you feel in various situations, including at school, home and in social settings. They will also determine how long you've had these symptoms.

Symptoms

If you think your child might have ADHD, talk to your doctor. Your child's teacher and you can fill out questionnaires to determine symptoms. They may also request that they take a few tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, such as tests for the ear and eyes. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves that are higher in kids with ADHD.

The symptoms must be present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It must cause significant impairment in two major situations, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD doctors employ psychiatric guidelines that include a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration, as well as the degree of impairment.

Parents might not be aware of the more common ADHD symptoms due to children's difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behavior. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.

People suffering from ADHD are also prone to problems with self-esteem and relationships which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which could be harmful to their health. The disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcies because of the insanity. It is crucial for children to be diagnosed properly, because it can help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.

Diagnosis

It is important to consult an expert if you or someone in your family is suffering from issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing their life, has trouble paying attention in school, has trouble following instructions at work or any other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist could assist in diagnosing 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 care provider will look over the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to identify other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, as well as certain medications 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 thorough physical exam, the clinician will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, including the frequency at which the person is absent from class or fails to finish homework. The clinician will also ask to talk to any other individuals who are involved in the person's daily life, including coaches and teachers. They might request that the patient bring an account book.

The person being assessed should be able and willing to openly discuss their feelings with the assessor. They should not be afraid of being critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is correct.

Treatment

If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis can be a source of relief. It can help you realize that it's not just laziness or insanity standing in the way of success and it gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed up with treatment. Adults with ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, including anxiety or depression. Other conditions like chronic headaches or sleep disorders can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.

To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the individual and their family. They will review the person's history going back to childhood, ask about the person's school experience and how family members interact with each other. They will also use standardized rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also take psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.

Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also maintain a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks readily available so they don't miss meals.

You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your doctor or therapist, or from other reputable professionals like a teacher. You can also call your insurance provider to find out who's certified to assess adults or contact an area medical hospital or school. It's important to choose a doctor who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.

Medication

The use of ADHD medications can help those with the disorder manage their symptoms, and improve their performance at work, school as well as in social settings. The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger side effects such as problems sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart-related conditions. Before beginning treatment, health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a full physical examination that includes eye and hearing tests. Patients should be educated about the risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about the history of their family as well as lifestyle habits and prior medical problems.

The clinician must carefully examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms persist and if they hinder the person's ability in more than one setting. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.

The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and also to rule out any other disorders that could trigger them. People who suffer from a learning disorder often show symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder could be misdiagnosed. The clinician will also examine whether the patient suffers from any medical issues, such as thyroid disorders, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.

The clinician may suggest a battery test, such as an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and laboratory tests, which could include an entire blood count and cholesterol panel.

Counseling

Talk to your doctor if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. They may refer you to specialists who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also discuss how symptoms affect you or your child's daily life, and help you determine whether medication is required. They can also explain other options for treatment, like behavioral therapy.

If your family physician cannot conduct a thorough assessment 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 range of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted through audio or video chat and are completely confidential.

It is essential to feel comfortable and confident in your online counselor. Ask about their training and experience with adults with ADHD and ensure that they can answer your questions in detail. If they are unable to answer, it could be a sign they're not qualified or unwilling to be a professional in dealing with adults suffering from ADHD.

It can be challenging to obtain read more an ADHD diagnosis however it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking control of your life. It will help you realize that your issues with organization and focus aren't the result of lazyness. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and a healthy lifestyle.

People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to deal with ADHD and other disorders.