ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also review any medical history you have.
They will also look at the way you feel in various situations, such as at home, school and in social settings. They will also consider the length of time you've had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Talk to your child's doctor if you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. They can look for signs by asking you and your teachers to fill out an assessment form and may ask them to do some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also utilize FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves that are more prominent in children who suffer from ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two key settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults doctors employ the psychiatric guidelines, which include a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment.
Parents might not be aware of the more common ADHD symptoms due to children's difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD can also have problems with self-esteem and relationships which can cause depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely to drink and take drugs, which can result in serious consequences for their health. The disorder can cause financial issues or even bankruptcies due the impulse-control issues. It's crucial that kids get a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and lead an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
It is crucial to talk with a doctor if you or someone in your family is suffering from difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty organizing, has trouble paying attention in school, has trouble following instructions at work or any other symptoms that could be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help you make an assessment. Some primary care professionals are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves a lengthy interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will look into the patient's medical, mental, and family history to determine if there are other issues that may be causing symptoms. For instance, certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease and head injuries, as well as some drugs can cause similar symptoms as those associated with 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. The clinician will also inquire about the person's family and school life, including how often they are absent from school or fail to complete their homework. The clinician may want to speak with other people in the patient's life, including coaches and teachers and may ask that the person bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be able and willing to freely talk about their feelings with the examiner. They shouldn't be afraid of being critiqued or criticized. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that the diagnosis is correct.
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If you or your child has ADHD being diagnosed is a great relief. It can help you understand that it's not laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that is making it difficult for you to achieve success. It also provides the steps to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a persistent headache or sleep disorder, can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
A mental health professional or health care provider will examine the person and family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will inquire about the person’s childhood as well as their education and how the family interacts. They will also utilize the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that evaluate executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD discover that diet and exercise can reduce the symptoms. They should stay away from alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks available so that they don't have to miss meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your physician or therapist or other reputable professionals like a teacher. You can also contact your insurance provider to find out if they are licensed to evaluate adults, or visit the nearest medical school or hospital. It's important to choose a doctor who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms as well as enhance their performance at work, school as well as in social situations. Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also cause adverse effects, such as problems sleeping and changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined with certain other medications, like those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart problems. Health care professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an extensive physical exam, including eye and hearing tests prior to beginning treatment. Patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle, and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
To establish a diagnosis, the clinician must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms persist and substantially affect the person's ability to function in a variety of settings. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD are established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The physician will assess the symptoms in order to determine their severity, and to rule out any other disorders that could be causing them. People who suffer from learning disorders typically exhibit symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder may be mistakenly diagnosed. The clinician will also consider whether the patient suffers from an illness like a thyroid disorder, that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a battery of tests, like brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms are impacting the patient. The doctor may also recommend a full medical evaluation, as well as laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD Talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also talk about how the symptoms impact your or your child's daily life, and help you determine whether medication is needed. They can also explain alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family physician is unable to conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, you can find online specialists in the field of telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can help manage a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
When selecting an online counselor it is crucial to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Find out about their education and experience with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they are unable to answer your questions, it could indicate that they're not qualified or unwilling to work as a professional with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be challenging to get an ADHD diagnosis but it's a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It can help you realize that the issues you face with organization and focus aren't a sign of inattention or lack of intelligence. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to keep their jobs, relationships, and healthy lifestyles.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to deal with ADHD and other disorders.