ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a specialist. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also go over your medical background.
They will also look at the way you feel in various situations, such as at school, home and in social settings. They will also consider how long you have had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Speak to your child's doctor should you suspect that you suspect that your child has ADHD. You and your child's teachers can fill out questionnaires to determine symptoms. They may also ask them to take some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, such as eye and ear tests. They can also utilize FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves which are more prevalent in children who suffer from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs were present prior to the time the age of 12 for the child. It should cause significant impairment in two important settings, such as at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD doctors follow psychiatric guidelines that include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as well as the level of impairment.
Kids often have trouble telling the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, which is why parents might not be aware of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress mental health issues and physical ailments can cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
People with ADHD might also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which could lead them to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely to drink and use drugs, which could cause serious harm to their health. The disorder can lead to problems with finances or even bankruptcies due the impulse-control issues. It is crucial that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live an enjoyable, productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been struggling to organize or is having trouble staying focused in class, have difficulty adhering to instructions at work, experience social issues, or other issues that could be related to ADHD it is essential to consult a doctor to get an evaluation. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The process of evaluation will include an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will review the person's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to look for other conditions that may be causing 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 conditions, such as mood disorders and anxiety, 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 activities, including how often they are absent from school or fail to complete their homework. The clinician will also ask to talk to any other individuals who are part of the person's everyday life, such as teachers and coaches. They might also request that the person bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be able to share their feelings with the examiner and not keep back information out of fear of being criticized or judged. This will improve the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chance that a diagnosis will be exact.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis can be a source of relief. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or lack of intelligence hindering your success, and also provides steps to take to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed up with treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, including depression or anxiety. Other diseases, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, may be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the person and their family. They will go over the person's past from birth to childhood, and inquire about the person's experience at school and how family members interact with each with each. They will also employ ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also take psychological tests to assess executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should stay away from caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. They should also adhere to a healthy diet and ensure they plan meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand to ensure they don't miss meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or other professionals you are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also contact an institution affiliated with a university or medical school for the names of qualified specialists or contact your insurance company to get the list of specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It is crucial to find a specialist with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
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 school, work at home, and in social situations. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also trigger negative side effects like problems sleeping and changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined with certain other medications, such as those used to treat depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Health professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an entire physical examination, including eye and hearing tests, before beginning medication. Patients should be educated about the risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about the history of their family, lifestyle, and medical history.
To establish a diagnosis, a clinician must closely examine the patient to determine website if the symptoms are persistent and significantly affect the person's functioning in multiple settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria to make a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD.
The physician will assess the symptoms to determine their severity, and also to rule out other conditions that may be causing them. People with a learning disorder often show symptoms that resemble those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder may be mistakenly diagnosed. The physician will also determine if the patient has any medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician may suggest a battery test, such as a cognitive testing or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. He might also suggest a complete medical evaluation and laboratory tests, which could include the complete blood count and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
Speak to your doctor if you believe that you may have ADHD. They can refer you to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining the need for medication by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also explain alternative options for treatment, such as the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family doctor is unable to conduct an exhaustive analysis of your symptoms, you can seek out online counselors who specialize in Telemedicine. Amwell for instance connects patients to licensed specialists who can address a variety of mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions take place via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
When choosing an online counselor it is crucial to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Ask them about their experience and training with adults with ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions with precision. If they are reluctant to share their knowledge this could be a sign that they're not qualified or uninterested in working with adults with ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult, but it's a vital step towards managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It will help you realize that your struggles with organization and focus aren't due to lazyness. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
It is common for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can assist you to learn how your ADHD and other disorders interact and assist you in learning to cope with them.