ADHD Diagnosis
See a doctor if you suspect you be suffering from ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also go over any medical history you may have.
They will also consider how you feel in various situations, including at school, home and in social settings. They will also determine how long you have had these symptoms.
Symptoms
Talk to your child's doctor If you think they may be suffering from ADHD. Your child's teacher and you can fill out a questionnaire to check for signs. adult diagnosis of adhd may also request that they take a few tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including eye and ear tests. They can also utilize 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 suffering from ADHD.
The symptoms must be present before the child reached the age of 12. It has to 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. In order to diagnose adults doctors employ mental health guidelines that provide a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration as and the degree of impairment.
Parents may not notice some of the more frequent ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behavior. Additionally, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also experience problems with self-esteem and relationships, which may cause depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol or use drugs, which are detrimental to their health. The disorder could cause financial issues or even bankruptcies because of the impulse-control issues. It's important for kids 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 have struggled to stay organized, have trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following instructions at work, have social problems, or have other issues that could be due to ADHD it is essential to consult with a physician for an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as 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 the symptoms. The health care provider will examine the person's medical, mental, and family history in order to determine if there are other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions like thyroid disease or head injuries, as well as certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health problems such as 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 clinician will inquire 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 will also request to speak with other people involved in the person's daily life, including teachers and coaches. They might also request that the person bring journals.
The person being evaluated should be able to share their feelings freely with the examiner and not hold back information out of fear of being accused of being criticized or judged. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the probability that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD is a relief for your child or you. It will help you understand that it's not a lack of effort or a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success. It also gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis should be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression. Other diseases, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, can cause symptoms that look like ADHD.
To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the individual and their family. They will inquire about the person’s childhood, their schooling and how the family interacts. They will also utilize standardized rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning skills.
Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people with ADHD. They should stay clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to an appropriate diet and make sure to schedule meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand to ensure they don't miss meals.
You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your doctor or therapist or other trusted professionals like a teacher. You can also ask the local hospital or medical school for a list of qualified specialists or call your insurance company to get an overview of the specialists who are licensed to assess adults. It is essential to find a specialist with experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychology or psychiatry.
Medication
Medications for ADHD can help people suffering from the disorder control their symptoms and improve functioning at school, at home or at work. They can also help improve their performance in social situations. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can cause a number of side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined together with other medications, for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart problems. Before beginning treatment, health care professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo a complete physical examination that includes hearing and eye tests. Health care providers should talk with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle habits, and prior medical problems.
In order to make a diagnosis, a clinician must carefully examine the patient to see whether the symptoms persist and substantially affect the person's ability to function in multiple settings. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD has been defined 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 also to rule out other conditions that might be responsible for them. For example, people who suffer from a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and someone with an anxiety disorder may be misdiagnosed as having ADHD. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient has a medical condition, such as a thyroid disorder, that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The physician may suggest a battery of tests, like brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how the symptoms affect the person. He could also suggest an extensive medical evaluation along with lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol panel.
Counseling
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, talk to your family doctor. They can refer you to experts who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or you. They can also discuss alternative options for treatment, like therapy for behavior.
If your family doctor isn't able to conduct a thorough analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who are experts in telemedicine are readily available. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can assist in managing various mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted through audio or video chat and are confidential.
When selecting a counselor online, it is important to feel at ease and trust with them. Ask about their training and experience with adults with ADHD, and make sure they can answer your questions in depth. If they are hesitant to answer your questions, it may be an indicator that they are unqualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge, but it's a vital step in controlling your symptoms and gaining control of your life. It can help you understand that your struggles with organization and focus aren't due to laziness. It's also comforting to know you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lives.
It is common for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you understand how your ADHD and other disorders interact and assist you in learning how to deal with them.