ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, you should consult a specialist. The specialist will ask about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also look over any medical history you may have.
They will also look at how you feel in different situations, like at school, home and in social situations. They will also check the length of time you've experienced these symptoms.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician should you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. You and your child's teachers can fill out an assessment questionnaire to look for signs. They may also ask them to take some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves, which tend to be higher in kids with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present before the child reached the age of 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two main situations, such as school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults doctors follow psychiatric guidelines that include specific information about the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress and mental health issues and physical ailments can cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which can lead them to depression. They often struggle to get adequate sleep. sleeping insufficiently can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and use drugs, which could be harmful to their health. The disorder can lead to problems with finances or even bankruptcies due to the impulse-control issues. It is essential that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
It is crucial to talk with your doctor if someone in your family suffers from social problems, has trouble getting organized, has difficulty paying attention at school, struggles with following instructions at work, or has other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help identify ADHD. Certain primary care providers are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to look for other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. For example, certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease and head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health issues such as mood disorders and anxiety 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 activities, including how frequently they miss class or do not finish their homework. The clinician may also ask to talk to any other individuals involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They may request that the patient bring an account book.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings freely with the examiner and not keep back information in fear that they will be criticized or judged. This will improve the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chance that a diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a great relief. It will help you realize that it's not just inattention, or a deficit in intelligence, that is making it difficult for you to achieve success. It also teaches you the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often have other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear 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, inquire about the person's school experience and how their family members interact with one other. They will also use standard rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also perform 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 avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also maintain a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks available to ensure they don't skip meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you trust for recommendations. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also contact your insurance company to find out if they are licensed to evaluate adults, or call a local medical institution or hospital. It is essential to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of ADHD medication can help those who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms as well as improve their functioning at work, school, home and in social situations. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also cause negative side effects like difficulties sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be taken in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Health professionals suggest that adolescents and children undergo a complete physical exam that includes hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle habits, and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
The doctor must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing, and if they affect the person's ability to function in multiple environments. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The doctor will examine the symptoms to determine the severity and to rule out other disorders that might cause them. For instance, people who have a learning disability often have symptoms reminiscent of ADHD and someone with an anxiety disorder may be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The clinician will also look at whether the patient suffers from any medical conditions such as thyroid issues, that could mimic website the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a series of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing, to assess how the symptoms are affecting the individual. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and laboratory tests, including a complete blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to professionals who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how the symptoms impact your or your child's daily life and help you determine whether medication is required. They can also explain alternatives to treatment like behavior therapy.
If your family doctor isn't able to conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are readily available. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can help manage a range of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chat and are private and secure.
It is essential to feel comfortable and confident in your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and education with adults suffering from ADHD. Be sure that they are able to answer your questions with precision. If they refuse to answer, it could be a sign they're not competent or able to work as a professional with adults with ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge however it's an essential step towards managing your symptoms and taking control of your life. It can help you understand 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.
It is common for people with ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact and assist you in learning to manage them.