ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if suspect you be suffering from ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will also examine the way you feel in various situations, like at home, school and in social settings. They will also consider how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you think your child may have ADHD discuss the possibility with their doctor. Your child's teacher and you can fill out questionnaires to determine signs. They can also ask them to take some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a noninvasive scanner that analyzes beta- and theta-waves that are more prominent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must be present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two major environments, like school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors to diagnose adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Parents might not be aware of the more typical ADHD symptoms due to children's difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD are also prone to problems with self-esteem and relationships, which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely to drink and take drugs, which can have serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is essential that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and lead a happier, more productive life.
Diagnosis
It is crucial to talk with your doctor if someone in your family is suffering from difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty organizing their life, has trouble paying attention at school, has trouble following instructions at work or other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists can help you make the diagnosis. Certain primary care providers are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves a lengthy interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will review the person's medical, mental and family history in order to determine if there are any other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues, such as anxiety and mood disorders, can also occur 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. Along with a thorough physical exam, the doctor will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, including the frequency at which the person is absent from class or fails to finish 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 may request that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated must be able and willing to freely talk about their thoughts with the assessor. They should not be afraid of being judged or criticized. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD receiving a diagnosis can be a source of relief. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or insanity hindering your success, and also provides steps to take to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other conditions, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, could be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient and their family. They will ask about the person’s childhood and their schooling, as well as how the family interacts. They will also utilize standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also take psychological tests that examine executive functioning, working memory spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also follow an appropriate diet and ensure they plan meals and keep healthy snacks on hand to ensure they don't skip meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your physician or therapist, or from other reputable professionals, such as teachers. You can also reach out to the local hospital or medical school to get a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to find a list of those who are licensed to assess adults. It is essential to find a doctor with expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their functioning at school, work at home, and in social settings. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can also trigger several adverse effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined together with other medications, such as those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart-related conditions. Health care professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an entire physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask about the history of their family and lifestyle habits as well as any medical issues that have occurred previously.
To establish an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must closely examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and significantly affect the person's functioning in a variety of settings. 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 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 could be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The physician will also look at whether the patient suffers from any medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest a battery of tests, including cognitive testing or brain imaging to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. He could also suggest an entire medical examination, as well as tests in the laboratory, such as here a full blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Talk to your doctor if you believe that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can provide referrals to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining the need for medication by discussing how symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also provide alternative treatment options like behavior therapy.
If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who are specialists in telemedicine can be found. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing a variety of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted through audio or video chat and are completely confidential.
When choosing an online counselor it is essential to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Be sure to inquire about their training and experience with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they are reluctant to answer your questions it could be a sign that they are not qualified or uninterested in working with adults who suffer from ADHD.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis, but it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking control of your life. It can help you understand that your issues with organization and focus are not a result of inability to focus. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.