ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect you might have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to a specialist. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also go over any medical history you have.
They will also look at how you feel in different situations, including at school, home and in social settings. They will also assess the length of time you've experienced these symptoms.
Signs and symptoms
Speak to your child's doctor if you suspect that you suspect that your child has ADHD. They can look for signs by asking you and your teachers to complete a questionnaire and may request them to take some tests. They could also take a physical exam, including hearing and eye tests. They can also utilize 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 be present before the child reaches the age of 12. It must cause significant impairment in two major situations, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. In order to diagnose adults doctors follow psychiatric guidelines that include an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as well as the degree of impairment.
Children often struggle to discern the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, so parents might not be aware of the most typical symptoms of ADHD. In addition, stress or other mental health issues or physical illnesses may trigger similar symptoms as ADHD.
People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with self-esteem and relationships which can lead to depression. They are often unable to get good quality sleep, and sleeping insufficiently can make the symptoms of ADHD worse. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and take drugs, which are harmful to their health. The disorder could cause financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the impulsiveness. It is crucial for children to be diagnosed properly, because it can aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life.
Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been struggling to organize or has trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following instructions at work, have issues with social interaction, or other concerns that could be due to ADHD, it is important to consult a doctor to get an evaluation. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could help diagnose ADHD. Some primary care professionals are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will review the person's mental, medical and family history to determine if there are other conditions that could be causing symptoms. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain medications can trigger symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health problems such as 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. Along with a thorough physical examination, the clinician will inquire about the patient's life at home and at school, such as how often the person misses classes or fails to complete homework. The doctor will also request to speak to other people who are involved in the person's daily life, including coaches and teachers. They may request that the patient bring an account book.
The person being evaluated should be willing and able to openly talk about their thoughts with the examiner. They should not be afraid to be critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the evaluation and increase the probability that a diagnosis is accurate.
Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD being diagnosed is a great relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success, and also provides steps to take to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety. Other conditions like sleep disorders or chronic headaches can trigger symptoms that appear like ADHD.
A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will look over the person's history going back to childhood, inquire about the person's education and how family members interact with each other. They will also utilize ADHD symptom checklists and standardized rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to spatial space) and reasoning skills.
Many people suffering from ADHD discover that exercising and diet help reduce their symptoms. They should stay away from the use of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also follow a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available so they don't miss meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you trust for recommendations. Teachers are an excellent example. You can also reach out to a local university-based hospital or medical school for the names of qualified specialists or call your insurance company to obtain the list of specialists who are licensed to evaluate adults. It is important to locate a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience in diagnosing ADHD.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help people suffering from the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home, work, and in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD may also cause a number of side effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications such as those for depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents receive an extensive physical exam, including eye and hearing tests, before beginning medication. Patients should be informed about the potential risks and benefits of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle and previous medical issues.
The physician must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent, and if they affect the person's ability in more than one setting. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and rule out other conditions that could cause them. People with learning disorders typically exhibit ADHD-like symptoms. A person with anxiety disorder might be misdiagnosed. The physician will also consider whether the patient has an illness, such as a thyroid disorder, that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
adhd in adults undiagnosed may suggest battery tests, such a cognitive test or brain imaging test to determine the severity of the symptoms. He could also suggest a full medical evaluation, as well as lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol test.
Counseling
If you suspect ADHD, talk to your family physician. They can refer you to professionals who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also talk about how symptoms affect you or your child's daily life and help you determine whether medication is needed. They can also explain alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy.
If your family doctor isn't able to provide an in-depth analysis of your symptoms, you can seek out online specialists in the field of telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed providers who can help manage a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat and are private.
It is crucial that you feel at ease and confident in your online counselor. Be sure to inquire about their training and experience working with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they are reluctant to answer your questions, it may be a sign that they're not qualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD.
It can be a challenge to get an ADHD diagnosis however it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking charge of your life. It can help you realize that your issues with focus and organization are not a result of lazyness. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles.
It is not uncommon for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help comprehend how your ADHD and other conditions interact and can help you learn to cope with them.
