ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you have ADHD it is recommended that you consult an expert. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also review your medical history.
They will also consider the way you feel in various situations, including at school, home and in social settings. They will also assess the length of time you've experienced these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect your child may be suffering from ADHD discuss the possibility with your doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete an assessment form and may ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct a physical exam, including hearing and eye tests. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves, which are higher in children with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms were present prior to the time the age of 12 for the child. It has to cause significant impairment in two primary environments, like school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults doctors employ psychiatric guidelines that include specific information about the symptoms and their duration as well as the degree of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. They often struggle to get sufficient sleep, and an absence of sleep can cause the symptoms of ADHD worse. They tend to drink more and use drugs, which could result in serious consequences for their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. IamPsychiatry is essential for children to get a proper diagnosis, because it can aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member has been struggling to organize or has trouble paying attention in class, have difficulty following directions at work, have social issues, or other concerns that could be caused by ADHD it is essential to consult with a physician for an assessment. A mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist could help identify ADHD. Some primary care providers also are trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will look over the patient's medical and mental history as well as family history to identify other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases, head injuries and certain medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health conditions like anxiety and mood disorders, 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 doctor will also inquire about the person's family and school life, including how frequently they miss class or fail to complete their homework. The clinician will also ask to speak to other people who are part of the person's everyday life, including coaches and teachers. They may request that the patient bring a journal.
The person being evaluated must be able to share their feelings freely with the examiner and not hold the information from fear of being criticized or judged. This will increase the quality of the evaluation and increase the likelihood that a diagnosis will be exact.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD being diagnosed is a relief. It will help you realize that it's not laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that is hindering your progress. It also gives you the steps to manage your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed-up by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD typically have other mental health problems like depression or anxiety. Other conditions, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, could cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will ask about the child's life and their schooling, as well as how their family interacts. They will also employ ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also perform psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to an appropriate diet and ensure they plan meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand to ensure they don't skip meals.
Ask your doctor, therapist or any other professional you trust for suggestions. Teachers are a good example. You can also contact an institution affiliated with a university or medical school for a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance company to find the list of specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is crucial to find a doctor who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social situations. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also trigger negative side effects like difficulties sleeping and changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined with certain other drugs for depression, such as those used to treat and high blood pressure and heart conditions. Before beginning treatment health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a thorough physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests. Patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also inquire about the history of their family, lifestyle, and previous medical issues.
The physician must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing, and if they affect the patient's ability to function in more than one environment. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an official diagnostic manual released by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The clinician will examine the symptoms in order to determine the severity of the symptoms, and to rule out other conditions that could be the cause. People who suffer from a learning disorder often show symptoms resembling those of ADHD. A person with anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed. The physician will also determine if the patient has any medical issues such as thyroid issues, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a variety of tests, including brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. He might also suggest an entire medical assessment and laboratory tests, including an entire blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Speak to your doctor if you think that you might have ADHD. They can recommend professionals who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also help you determine the need for medication by discussing how the symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or you. They can also provide other options for treatment such as therapy for behavior.
If your family physician isn't able to provide an exhaustive assessment of your symptoms you can find online counselors who specialize in the field of telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing a variety of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Session take place via video or audio chat, and are completely confidential.
When choosing an online counselor it is essential to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Find out about their education and experience with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in depth. If they are hesitant to answer your questions, it may be a sign that they're not qualified or are not willing to work with adults with ADHD.
It can be challenging to get an ADHD diagnosis, but it is a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It will help you realize that your difficulties in focusing and organization are not a result of lazyness. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how your ADHD and other disorders interact and assist you in learning to manage them.