ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD it is recommended that you consult a specialist. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also look over any medical history you may have.
They will check how your symptoms impact you in various settings, such as school, home, and social situations. They will also check the length of time you've experienced these symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect your child might have ADHD Talk to their doctor. They can check for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to fill out an assessment form and ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct physical exams, including hearing and eye tests. They can also utilize FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA), a noninvasive scanner that analyzes beta- and theta-waves, which are higher in children who suffer from ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms have been present since before the child reached age 12. It should cause significant impairment in two important situations, like at school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines that are used by doctors in diagnosing adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration, and the level of impairment they cause.
Parents may miss some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behaviors. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which could lead them to depression. They often have trouble getting sufficient sleep, and sleeping insufficiently can make the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely to drink and take drugs, which could result in serious consequences for their health. The disorder could cause problems with finances or even bankruptcies due the insanity. It is crucial for children to be diagnosed properly as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been struggling to get organized or has trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty following instructions at work, suffer from issues with social interaction, or other issues that could be caused by ADHD, it is important to consult a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist can help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care professionals have training in diagnosing ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will look over the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to determine other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases and head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety 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. In addition to a thorough physical exam, the clinician will ask about the person's life at home and at school, focusing on how often the person misses class or fails to finish homework. The doctor may also want to speak with other people in the patient's life, such as teachers and coaches and may ask that the person bring an account of their lives.
The person being assessed should be able and willing to freely talk about their feelings with the examiner. They should not be afraid of being criticised or judged. This can improve the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis is correct.
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 a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success. It also gives you steps to take to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed up by treatment. Adults with ADHD frequently have other mental health problems like anxiety or depression. Other conditions like sleep disorders or chronic headaches may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
A mental health professional or health care provider will examine the person and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will go over the person's history going back to childhood, and inquire about the person's education and how their family members interact with each and with each. They will also use standard rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that examine working memory, executive functioning spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Many people suffering from ADHD discover that exercise and diet can help reduce their symptoms. They should avoid the use of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also adhere to a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks readily available so they don't miss meals.
You can find an ADHD specialist by seeking recommendations from your doctor or therapist or other professionals you trust, such as teachers. You can also ask a local university-based hospital or medical school to get an inventory of specialists who are qualified or call your insurance company to get an overview of the specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is essential to find a doctor who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
The use of ADHD medications can help those with the disorder better manage their symptoms, and also enhance their performance at school, work, home and in social situations. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, including difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be used alongside other medications, including those for depression, high blood pressure, and heart issues. Before beginning treatment doctors recommend that adolescents and children undergo a thorough physical examination, including eye and hearing tests. Health care providers should talk with patients about the benefits and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask about family history, lifestyle habits, and prior medical problems.
To make a diagnosis, a clinician must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms are persistent and significantly impact the person's performance in multiple settings. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD has been established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The doctor will look at the symptoms to determine their severity, and to rule out other disorders that may be responsible for them. For instance, people who suffer from a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and someone with an anxiety disorder might be mistakenly identified as having ADHD. The physician will also determine if the person has any medical conditions such as thyroid issues, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor might suggest battery tests, such a cognitive test or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. adhddiagnosis may also suggest a full 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 physician. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also talk about how symptoms affect your or your child's everyday life and help you determine whether medication is required. They can also discuss alternative options for treatment, for example, the use of behavioral therapy.
If your family physician cannot conduct a detailed analysis of your symptoms, you can find online counselors who specialize in Telemedicine. Amwell for instance connects patients with licensed providers who can manage various mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions take place via audio and video chat, and are confidential and secure.
When selecting an online counseling specialist, it is important to feel at ease and trust with them. Find out about their education and experience working with adults with ADHD and ensure that they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they're not willing to answer your questions this could be an indicator that they're not qualified or are not willing to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be difficult to receive an ADHD diagnosis however it is essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you realize that the issues you face with focus and organization aren't a sign of laziness or low intelligence. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric conditions like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to deal with ADHD and other conditions.