ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if you suspect that you may have ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also review any medical history you may have.
They will also look at the way you feel in various situations, such as at home, school and in social situations. They will also look at the length of time you've had these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect your child might have ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. You and your child's teachers can complete questionnaires to determine symptoms. They could also request that they take a few tests. They can also perform physical examinations, including eye and ear tests. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves that are more frequent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It must cause significant impairment in two primary environments, like school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors to diagnose 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, which is why parents might not be aware of the most common symptoms of ADHD. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD.
People with 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 take drugs, which can result in serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
It is important to consult your doctor if someone in your family has difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty getting organized, has difficulty paying attention in school, struggles to follow instructions at work or other symptoms that could be due to ADHD. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist can help diagnose ADHD. Certain primary care providers are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The process of evaluation involves an extended interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will look over the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to identify other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid diseases, head injuries and certain medications can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health problems, such as anxiety and mood disorders, 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. The clinician will also ask about the person’s home and school life, such as the frequency they skip classes or fail to complete their homework. The doctor may also want to talk to other people in the person's life, like coaches and teachers, and may request that the patient bring an account of their lives.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings openly with the examiner and not hold back information in fear of being criticized or judged. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or yourself. It will help you understand that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success, and also provides steps to take to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed-up by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD often suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a persistent headache or sleep disorder, may produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will evaluate the patient and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will ask about the child's life as well as their education and how the family interacts. They will also employ standard rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also perform psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Many people suffering from ADHD discover that exercising and diet reduce the symptoms. They should stay away from caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also follow a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available so that they don't have to miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you are comfortable with for recommendations. Teachers are a good example. You can also call your insurance provider to find out who is certified to evaluate adults, or call a local medical institution or hospital. It is essential to find a doctor with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help people with the disorder control their symptoms and improve functioning at home, school or at work, as well as in social situations. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be combined click here alongside other medications, including those for depression and high blood pressure and heart problems. Before beginning treatment doctors recommend that adolescents and children undergo a full physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests. Patients should be educated about the risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask about the history of their family as well as lifestyle habits and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
In order to make a diagnosis, a clinician must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms persist and substantially affect the person's ability to function in multiple settings. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD has been established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and also to rule out any other disorders that could trigger them. For instance, people who suffer from a learning disability frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and a person with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The clinician will also consider whether the patient suffers from a medical condition like thyroid disease, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, such as a cognitive test or brain imaging to evaluate the severity of the symptoms. He could also suggest a full medical evaluation, and lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Consult your doctor if you suspect that you might have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also discuss how the symptoms impact your or your child's everyday life, and help you determine if medication is necessary. They can also explain alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who are experts in telemedicine are available. Amwell for instance connects patients with licensed professionals who can treat a range of mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chats and are private and secure.
When selecting a counselor online it is crucial to feel at ease and trust with them. Ask them about their experience and training with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer your questions thoroughly. If they are hesitant to answer your questions this could be a sign that they are not qualified or are not willing to work with adults with ADHD.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis but it's essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It will help you realize that your difficulties in focusing and organization aren't the result of inability to focus. It's also a comfort to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and a healthy lifestyle.
It is common for people with ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to deal with ADHD and other disorders.