ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, you should consult a specialist. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and the impact they can have on your life. They will also look over any medical history you may have.
They will also examine how you feel in various situations, including at home, school and in social situations. They will also check how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Symptoms
Consult your child's physician should you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. Your child's teacher and you can fill out questionnaires to determine signs. They can also ask them to take some tests. They could also take a physical exam, including hearing and eye tests. They can also utilize the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves, which tend to be higher in kids with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present before the child reached the age of 12. It must cause significant impairment in two major settings, such as work and school. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines utilized by doctors when diagnosing adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the degree of impairment they cause.
Children often struggle to tell the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, which is why parents might not be aware of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People with ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which can cause depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which can cause serious harm to their health. The impulsiveness of 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 an expert if you or someone in your family is suffering from social problems, has trouble getting organized, has difficulty paying attention in school, has trouble following instructions at work or other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists can assist in determining a diagnosis. Some primary care providers also have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will review the person's medical, mental, and family history in order to determine if there are any other issues that may be causing symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases and head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders are also a possibility with ADHD and create 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 ask about the person’s home and school life, such as the frequency they skip classes or fail to finish 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 request that the patient bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be willing to discuss their feelings openly with the examiner and not keep back information out of fear of being criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
If you or your child suffers from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a relief. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success, and also provides steps to take to control your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed-up by treatment. Adults with ADHD often suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other illnesses such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear like ADHD.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider will examine the patient and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will review the person's history going back to childhood, ask about the person's school experience and how family members interact with each with each. They will also employ the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptom checklists. They will also take psychological tests that examine working memory, executive functioning, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Many people with ADHD find that exercising and diet aid in reducing their symptoms. They should stay clear of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also follow a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks readily available so they don't miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you are comfortable with for recommendations. A teacher is a good example. You can also reach out to an institution affiliated with a university or medical school to get the names of qualified specialists or call your insurance provider to find the list of specialists who are licensed to assess adults. It's important to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at home, school or at work, as well as in social settings. The stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger side effects such as problems sleeping and eating, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications for depression, such as those used to treat, high blood pressure, and heart issues. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents receive a complete physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to starting medication. Patients should be informed of the risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle, and previous medical issues.
To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must carefully examine the patient to see whether the symptoms persist or substantially affect the get more info person's ability to function in multiple settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and also to rule out any other disorders that might cause them. For instance, people who suffer from a learning disability frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and a person with an anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The clinician will also consider whether the patient has an illness, such as thyroid disorders, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor might suggest battery tests, such a cognitive test or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. He may also suggest an extensive medical evaluation as well as tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Talk to your doctor if you think that you may have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also explain alternative options for treatment, for example, the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who are experts in telemedicine are available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can help manage a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are completely confidential.
It is important that you feel comfortable and confident with the online counselor. Be sure to inquire about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they are reluctant to share their knowledge this could be a sign that they are unqualified or are not willing to work with adults who suffer from ADHD.
It can be a challenge to receive an ADHD diagnosis but it's essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It can help you understand that your struggles with organization and focus aren't due to inability to focus. It's also a relief to know that you're not alone. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and a healthy lifestyle.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact and assist you in learning to manage them.