ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if suspect that you may have ADHD. 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 have.
They will also examine how you feel in various situations, like at school, at home and in social settings. They will also assess how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you think your child may be suffering from ADHD discuss the possibility with your doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out questionnaires and request them to take certain tests. They can also perform a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also utilize 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 prominent in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms have been present since before the age of 12 for the child. It should cause significant impairment in two major settings, such as school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults doctors employ mental health guidelines that provide a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration, as well as the level of impairment.
Children often struggle to discern the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents might overlook some of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which can lead them to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which could have serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. It is crucial for children to get a proper diagnosis as it will help them manage their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to get organized 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 for an evaluation. A mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist can assist in diagnosing ADHD. Some primary care professionals have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care provider 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. For example certain medical conditions like thyroid disease, head injuries, and some drugs can cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health problems 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. The clinician will also inquire about the person's home and school life, including the frequency they skip classes or fail to complete their homework. The clinician might also talk to other people in the patient's life, such as coaches and teachers and may also request that the patient bring a journal.
The person being evaluated must be willing and able to freely talk about their feelings with the examiner. They shouldn't be scared of being judged or criticized. This will enhance the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis will be accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief for your child or you. It will help you understand that it's not a lack of effort or insanity that is preventing your success, and also provides steps to take to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches can cause symptoms that look similar to ADHD.
A mental health professional or health care provider will examine the person and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will inquire about the child's life and their schooling, as well as how the family interacts. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests that evaluate executive function, visual and spatial skills (related to space), and reasoning abilities.
Exercise and diet can help reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should stay away from alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet and plan their meals and keep healthy snacks on hand so they don't have to skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist or other professionals you trust, such as an educator. You can also contact the local hospital or medical school to get a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance company to find an overview of the specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It's crucial to find a doctor with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help people 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 settings. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can cause a number of side effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be taken in conjunction with other medications like those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure, and heart conditions. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Health care providers should talk with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask about family history, lifestyle habits, and prior medical problems.
The doctor must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing and if they impact the person's ability to function in more than one environment. 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 ADHD/ADD.
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine the severity and rule out other disorders that could trigger them. People with learning disorders typically exhibit symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder could be misdiagnosed. The clinician will also determine if the person has any medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor might suggest battery tests, such an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging to evaluate the severity of website the symptoms. He could also suggest an entire medical examination, and laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They can provide referrals to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also explain other options for treatment such as therapy for behavior.
If your family doctor cannot conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who are specialists in telemedicine can be found. Amwell, for example connects patients with licensed providers who can manage a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are confidential.
It is essential that you feel at ease and confident with your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they're not willing to share their knowledge this could be a sign that they are not qualified or unwilling to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be challenging to receive an ADHD diagnosis, but it is essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you understand that the issues you face with organization and focus aren't the result of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and a healthy lifestyle.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other disorders interact and can help you learn to manage them.