ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD it is recommended that you consult an expert. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also go over your medical background.
They will determine how your symptoms affect you in various settings, such as school, home, and social situations. They will also determine how long you have had these symptoms.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child may have ADHD, talk to their doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to fill out an assessment form and request them to take certain tests. They can also conduct a physical exam, including eye and hearing tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves which are typically more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present before the child reached the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two key settings, such as at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors when diagnosing adults provide a thorough description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Parents may not notice some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behaviors. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD might also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which may cause depression. They often struggle to get adequate sleep. a lack of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They tend to drink more and take drugs, which could result in serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is crucial that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live a happier, more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been struggling to get organized or has trouble paying attention in class, have difficulty following directions at work, experience social issues, or other concerns that could be related to ADHD it is essential to consult with a physician for an assessment. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, can assist in determining a diagnosis. Some primary care professionals are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves a long interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health professional will examine the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to determine other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases and head injuries as well as some medications can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health disorders such as anxiety and mood disorders, are also a possibility with ADHD and lead to 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 inquire about the person’s home and school life, such as the frequency they skip classes or fail to complete their homework. The doctor will also request to speak to other people who are involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They might also request that the person bring a journal.
The person being evaluated must be willing to discuss their feelings with the examiner and not keep back information in fear of being criticised or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the evaluation and increase the probability that a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or you. It will help you realize that it's not lazyness, or a deficiency in intelligence, that is 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 suffering from other mental health issues, including depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders may cause symptoms like ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will inquire about the person's childhood, their schooling and how the family interacts. They will also employ 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 skills.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. They should avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also adhere to an appropriate diet, plan their meals and have healthy snacks readily available to ensure they don't skip meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your physician or therapist, or from other trusted professionals, such as teachers. You can also call your insurance company to find out who's certified to evaluate adults, or call an area medical institution or hospital. It is important to find a specialist 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 and improve their performance at school, work, home and in social situations. Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger negative side effects like problems sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be used together with other medications, like those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart-related conditions. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents receive a complete physical exam, including eye and hearing tests prior to beginning treatment. Health professionals should speak with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about the history of their family, lifestyle habits, and prior medical problems.
The doctor must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms persist and if they hinder the patient's ability to function in more than one setting. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The doctor will look at the symptoms 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 resembling those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient suffers from a medical condition, such as a thyroid disorder, that could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, like a cognitive testing or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. He may also suggest an extensive medical evaluation along with tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect you have ADHD Talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also assist you in determining the need for diagnosis of adhd medication by discussing how symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also explain other options for treatment such as behavioral therapy.
If your family physician is unable to conduct an in-depth analysis of your symptoms, you can seek out online specialists in telemedicine. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can assist in managing a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Session take place via audio or video chat and are completely confidential.
When selecting an online counselor it is crucial to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experiences and training with adults suffering from ADHD. Be sure that they are able to answer all your questions thoroughly. If they are reluctant to share their knowledge this could be a sign that they are unqualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult but it's an essential step in managing your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you realize that the difficulties you have with focus and organization aren't a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to deal with ADHD and other disorders.