ADHD Diagnosis
Consult a specialist if think you might have ADHD. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also look over any medical history you may have.
They will also look at how you feel in various situations, including at home, school and in social situations. They will also look at the length of time you've had these symptoms for.
Symptoms
If you suspect your child may have ADHD discuss the possibility with your doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to complete questionnaires, and they might ask them to perform certain tests. They can also perform a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that analyzes beta- and theta-waves, which are higher in children who suffer from ADHD.
The symptoms must be present before the child reached the age of 12. It must cause significant disability in two crucial environments, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD, doctors use 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, and parents might overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem, which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They tend to drink more and take drugs, which could result in serious consequences for their health. The disorder could cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the impulsiveness. It is essential for children to receive a correct diagnosis to assist them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life.
Diagnosis
It is essential to speak with your doctor if someone in your family suffers from issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing, has trouble paying attention at school, has trouble following instructions at work, or has other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extended interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health professional will review the person's medical and mental history as well as family history to look for other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. For instance, certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease or head injuries, as well as some drugs can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health problems, 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 person's life at home and at school, such as how often the person misses class or fails to finish homework. The clinician may also ask to talk to any other individuals who are involved in the person's daily life, such as coaches and teachers. They may also ask the person to bring a journal.
The person who is being evaluated should be willing to discuss their feelings freely with the examiner and not hold back information out of fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can be a huge relief for your child or you. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or insanity hindering your success, and also provides steps to take to control your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD typically have other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Other conditions like chronic headaches or sleep disorders can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the person and their family. They will review the person's history going back to childhood, and inquire about the person's experience at school and how their family members interact with each and with each. They will also use ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also perform psychological tests to assess executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Exercise and diet can help reduce symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should stay clear of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also follow a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available so they don't miss 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 call your insurance company to find out if they are certified to evaluate adults, or visit the nearest medical school or hospital. It is important to choose a doctor who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has expertise in diagnosing ADHD.
adhd diagnosis in adults of medications for ADHD can help those suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve functioning at home, school, work, and in social settings. However, stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can cause several adverse effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be taken with certain other medications, such as those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart problems. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Patients should be educated about the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also ask questions about the history of their family, lifestyle, and medical history.
The clinician must examine the patient closely to determine whether the symptoms persist, and if they affect the patient's ability to function in more than one environment. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD are defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The physician will assess the symptoms in order to determine their severity and to rule out any other disorders that could be causing them. For instance, people who suffer from a learning disability frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder may be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient has an illness like thyroid disease, which could be akin to symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor might suggest battery tests, such an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. He may also suggest an extensive medical evaluation and tests in the laboratory, such as a full blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, talk to your family physician. They can refer you to professionals who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how symptoms affect your or your child's everyday life and help you decide whether medication is needed. They can also explain other options for treatment such as therapy for behavior.
If your family doctor isn't able to provide an in-depth evaluation of your symptoms, you can search online for counselors who specialize in Telemedicine. Amwell for instance, connects patients to licensed professionals who can treat a variety of mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat and are confidential.
It is essential to feel comfortable and confident in your online counselor. Find out about their education and experience working with adults suffering from ADHD, and make sure they can answer your questions in detail. If they are reluctant to share their knowledge, it may be a sign that they are not qualified or are not willing to work with adults with ADHD.
It can be a challenge to obtain an ADHD diagnosis but it's essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you understand that your difficulties with organization and focus aren't due to laziness. It's also comforting to be aware that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and a healthy lifestyle.
It is normal for people with ADHD to have other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to deal with ADHD and other conditions.