ADHD Diagnosis

See a doctor if you think you might have ADHD. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.

They will also consider how you feel in different situations, like at home, school and in social settings. They will also check how long you've had these symptoms for.

Signs and symptoms

If you suspect your child may have ADHD, talk to their doctor. They can look for signs by asking you and their teachers to complete an assessment form and ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, such as eye and ear tests. They can also use FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that measures theta- and beta-waves, which are higher in children who suffer from ADHD.

A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms were present prior to the time the age of 12 for the child. It must cause significant disability in two important settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults doctors follow mental health guidelines that provide an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment.

Children often struggle to tell the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, and parents may overlook some of the most common symptoms of ADHD. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD.

People suffering from ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which could cause depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol and use drugs, which are detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. It is crucial for children to be diagnosed properly, because it can aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life.

Diagnosis

It is important to consult an expert if you or someone in your family is suffering from difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty organizing, has trouble paying attention in school, struggles with following instructions at work or any other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, like psychiatrists or psychologists, can help make a diagnosis. Some primary care professionals are also trained to recognize ADHD.

The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will examine the patient's medical and mental health history as well as their family history to look for other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, head injuries, and certain medications can cause similar symptoms as those associated with 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. The doctor will also inquire about the person's home and school life, such as how often they are absent from school or fail to finish their homework. The clinician will also ask to talk to any other individuals involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They might also ask the person to bring an account book.

The person being evaluated must be willing and able to openly discuss their thoughts with the assessor. They should not be afraid of being criticised or judged. This will increase the quality of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis will be accurate.

Treatment

If you or your child is suffering from ADHD receiving a diagnosis is a great relief. It will help you understand that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence hindering your success. It also gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other illnesses, such as a chronic headache or sleep disorder, can be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.

To diagnose ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the patient and their family. They will review the person's past from birth to childhood, ask about the person's education and how family members interact with one and with each. They will also use standard rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also take psychological tests that test working memory, executive functioning spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning skills.

Diet and exercise can reduce symptoms for a lot of people with ADHD. They should avoid the use of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also eat a healthy diet and ensure they plan meals and keep healthy snacks on hand so they don't miss meals.

Ask your doctor, therapist or any other professional you are comfortable with for recommendations. Teachers are an excellent example. 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 provider to find an overview of the specialists who are certified to evaluate adults. It is important to find a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.

Medication

The use of ADHD medication can help those with the disorder better manage their symptoms, and improve their functioning at school, work, home and in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD may also cause several adverse effects, such as 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-related conditions. Before beginning treatment doctors recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical examination, including eye and hearing tests. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and risks of read more taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history and lifestyle habits as well as prior medical problems.

To establish a diagnosis, a clinician must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms are persistent and substantially affect the person's ability to function in more than one setting. 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 doctor will examine the symptoms to determine the severity and to rule out other disorders that might cause them. For example, people who suffer from a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and a person with an anxiety disorder may be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The doctor will also look at whether the person has any medical issues, such as thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD.

The clinician may suggest a battery test, like an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical examination, and lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol panel.

Counseling

If you suspect you have ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They may refer you to specialists who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also discuss how symptoms affect your or your child's everyday life and help you determine whether medication is needed. They can also provide other options for treatment, for example, the use of behavioral therapy.

If your family doctor isn't able to provide an exhaustive analysis of your symptoms, you can seek out online counselors who specialize in telemedicine. Amwell for instance connects patients with licensed providers who can manage various mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video and audio chats and are private and secure.

It is essential that you feel at ease and confident with your online counselor. Ask them about their experiences and training for adults with ADHD. Make sure they can answer your questions with precision. If they are unable to answer your questions, it could indicate that they're not qualified or unwilling to be a professional working with adults suffering from ADHD.

It can be difficult to get an ADHD diagnosis but it's a crucial step in managing your symptoms and taking control of your life. It can help you realize that the issues you face with focus and organization aren't the result of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also a comfort to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lives.

It is common for people suffering from ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.