ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect you 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 have.
They will also consider the way you feel in various situations, such as at school, home and in social settings. They will also check how long you've had these symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
Consult your child's physician should you suspect that they may be suffering from ADHD. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete an assessment form, and they might request them to take certain tests. They can also perform physical examinations, such as eye and ear tests. They can also use FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves which are more prevalent in children with ADHD.
The symptoms must have been present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It must cause significant disability in two key 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 employ psychiatric guidelines that include specific information about the symptoms and their duration as well as the level of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more common ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD might also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which can lead them to depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol and use drugs, which could be harmful to their health. The impulsiveness of the disorder can cause financial problems or even bankruptcy. It's crucial that kids get a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and lead more fulfilled, happier life.
Diagnosis
If you or a family member have been struggling to get organized, have trouble paying attention in class, are having difficulty adhering to instructions at work, have issues with social interaction, or other concerns that could be related to ADHD it is essential to consult with a physician to get an evaluation. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help diagnose ADHD. adhd diagnosis uk adults are also trained to diagnose ADHD.
The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health professional will review the person's medical, mental, and family history to determine if there are other issues that may be causing symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health problems like mood disorders and anxiety can also be associated 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 patient's life at home and at school, including the frequency at which the person is absent from class or fails to finish homework. The doctor may also want to speak with other people in the patient's life, such as coaches and teachers and may also request that the patient bring a journal.
The person being assessed should be able and willing to talk about their opinions with the assessor. They should not be scared of being critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the accuracy of the assessment and increase the likelihood that a diagnosis will be precise.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for you or your child. It will help you understand that it's not just laziness or a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success, and also provides ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed-up by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD typically have other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, can be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the patient and their family. They will review the person's history going back to childhood, ask about the person's school experience and how family members interact with one and with each. They will also use the standard rating scales as well as ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning abilities.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. They should stay away from the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also maintain a healthy diet, set a schedule for meals and have healthy snacks available to ensure they don't skip meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or other professionals you are comfortable with for suggestions. Teachers are an excellent example. You can also contact your insurance company to find out who's licensed to evaluate adults, or call an area medical school or hospital. It's important to find a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
The use of medications for ADHD can help people suffering from the disorder control their symptoms and improve their performance at home, school or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger several adverse effects, such as trouble sleeping, appetite changes, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart-related conditions. Health professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an entire physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests prior to starting medication. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the benefits and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask questions about family history, lifestyle, and medical history.
In order to make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor must examine the person closely to see whether the symptoms persist and significantly impact the person's performance in multiple settings. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is established 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 their severity and also to rule out any other disorders that might cause them. For instance, those who suffer from a learning disability frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and someone with an anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed as having ADHD. The clinician will also look at whether the person has any medical issues like thyroid disorders that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The clinician might suggest a variety of tests, like brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms are impacting the patient. He may also suggest an extensive medical examination and lab tests, such as an entire blood count and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD Talk to your family physician. They may refer you to specialists who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also discuss how symptoms affect you or your child's daily routine and help you determine whether medication is required. They can also explain other options for treatment, such as therapy for behavior.
If your family doctor isn't able to conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine can be found. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can assist in managing various mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure.
It is essential that you feel at ease and confident with your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training with adults with ADHD. Be sure that they can answer your questions with precision. If they're not willing to do so it could be an indicator that they are not qualified or unwilling to work with adults with ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge however it's an essential step toward managing your symptoms and taking control over your life. It will help you realize that your difficulties in focusing and organization aren't the result of laziness. It's also a comfort to be aware that you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to manage ADHD and other disorders.