ADHD Diagnosis

Consult a specialist 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 go over any medical history you may have.

They will check how your symptoms affect you in different settings, such as school, at home, and social situations. They will also consider how long you have had these symptoms.

Symptoms

If you suspect your child may be suffering from ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. Your child's teacher and you can complete questionnaires to determine signs. They could also request that they take a few tests. They can also conduct physical exams, including eye and hearing tests. They can also use FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves, which are higher in children suffering from ADHD.

The symptoms must be present before the child reaches the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two important situations, like at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines used by doctors in diagnosing adults contain a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.

Kids often have trouble telling the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents might not be aware of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms to ADHD.

People with ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which can cause serious harm to their health. The disorder could cause problems with finances or even bankruptcies due to the insanity. It is crucial that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and lead more fulfilled, happier life.

Diagnosis

It is important to consult a doctor if you or someone in your family is suffering from issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing their life, has trouble paying attention at school, struggles to follow instructions at work, or has other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. A mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist, can assist in determining an assessment. Some primary care professionals are trained to diagnose ADHD.

The evaluation process consists of a long interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will look into the patient's medical, mental and family history to determine if there are other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. Certain medical conditions like thyroid diseases, head injuries and certain drugs can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders are also a possibility with ADHD and cause 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, including the frequency they skip classes or fail to complete their homework. The clinician may also ask to speak with other people who are involved in the person's daily life, including teachers and coaches. They might also request that the person bring journals.

The person who is being evaluated should be able to share their feelings with the examiner and not hold back information out of fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will increase the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chance that a diagnosis will be exact.

Treatment

A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or you. It will help you realize that it's not laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that's preventing you from achieving success. It also teaches you the steps to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed up by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches can trigger symptoms that appear similar to ADHD.

To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the individual and their family. They will inquire about the person's childhood, their schooling and how the family interacts. They will also utilize standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also take psychological tests to assess working memory, executive functioning spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.

Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for a lot of people with ADHD. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks readily available so that they don't have to miss meals.

You can find an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your personal doctor or therapist or other professionals you trust, such as a teacher. You can also reach out to the local hospital or medical school for a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to find a list of those who are licensed to assess adults. It's crucial to find a specialist with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.

Medication

The use of ADHD medications can help those who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms, as well as enhance their performance at school, work as well as in social settings. Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also have side effects such as problems sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be used alongside other medications for depression, such as those used to treat or high blood pressure and heart issues. Before starting medication doctors recommend that adolescents and children undergo a complete physical examination that includes hearing and eye click here tests. Health professionals should speak with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about the history of their family, lifestyle, and previous medical issues.

The physician must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent, and if they affect the patient'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 a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.

The clinician will review the symptoms to determine their severity and to rule out other disorders that could trigger them. For instance, those who have a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and someone with an anxiety disorder may be misdiagnosed as having ADHD. The physician will also look at whether the patient suffers from any medical conditions such as thyroid issues, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.

The doctor might suggest battery test, such as a cognitive test or brain imaging to evaluate the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical examination, and lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol test.

Counseling

Talk to your doctor if you suspect that you may have ADHD. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how symptoms affect you or your child's daily routine and help you decide whether medication is needed. They can also provide other options for treatment like behavioral therapy.

If your family physician cannot conduct a thorough analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who are experts in telemedicine can be found. Amwell, for example connects patients with licensed specialists who can address various mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video or audio chat, and are private.

When selecting an online counselor, it is important to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experience and training with adults suffering from ADHD. Be sure that they can answer your questions thoroughly. If they are unable to answer, it could be a sign they're not competent or able to work as a professional with adults suffering from ADHD.

The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge however it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It can help you realize that your issues with focus and organization aren't the result of laziness. It's also a comfort to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.

It is not uncommon for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help learn how your ADHD and other disorders interact, and help you learn to manage them.