ADHD Diagnosis
If you suspect that you may have ADHD it is recommended that you consult an expert. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they can have on 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, at home and in social settings. They will also look at how long you've been experiencing these symptoms for.
Signs and symptoms
If you suspect your child might have ADHD Talk to their doctor. You and your child's teachers can fill out an assessment questionnaire to look for symptoms. They could also ask them to take some tests. They can also do physical exams, including eye and hearing tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a noninvasive scan that measures beta and theta brain waves, which tend to be higher in kids with ADHD.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms have been present for a long time before the child reached age 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two crucial settings, such as at school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD doctors follow mental health guidelines that provide specific information about the symptoms and their duration as well as the degree of impairment.
Parents may miss some of the more common ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress or other mental health issues or physical ailments can trigger similar symptoms to ADHD.
People who suffer from ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. Sleep problems can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol and take drugs, which are detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can result in financial problems or even bankruptcy. It's crucial that kids get a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will allow them to manage their symptoms and lead more fulfilled, happier life.
Diagnosis
It is essential to speak with an expert if you or someone in your family has difficulties with social interactions, has difficulty getting organized, has difficulty paying attention at school, struggles with following instructions at work or other symptoms that could be related to ADHD. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist could assist in diagnosing ADHD. Certain primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD.
The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will look into the patient's medical, mental and family history to determine if there are other issues that may be causing symptoms. For instance, certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, head injuries, and certain medications can cause similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD. Other mental health problems such as anxiety and mood disorders, may also be present 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 clinician will also ask about the person's family and school life, such as how frequently they miss class or fail to complete their homework. The clinician may want to talk to other people in the person's life, such as teachers and coaches and may also request that the patient bring an account of their lives.
The person being evaluated must be willing and able to discuss their feelings with the examiner. They shouldn't be afraid to be critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is correct.
Treatment
If you or your child has ADHD receiving a diagnosis can be a source of relief. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or a lack of intelligence that is preventing your success and it gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD often suffer from other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, like chronic headaches or sleep disorder, could be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD.
A mental health healthcare professional or health care provider will evaluate the patient and their family thoroughly to diagnose ADHD. They will go over the person's past from birth to childhood, and inquire about the person's education and how family members interact with each with each. They will also use standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests that test executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space), and reasoning abilities.
Many people with ADHD find that exercising and diet aid in reducing their symptoms. They should stay away from smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also follow a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks readily available to ensure they don't skip meals.
Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you trust for recommendations. A teacher is a good example. You can also contact an institution affiliated with a university or medical school for an inventory of specialists who are qualified or contact your insurance company to get a list of those who are licensed to assess adults. It is crucial to find a doctor who has experience in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology.
Medication
Treatments for ADHD can help people with the disorder control their symptoms and improve their performance at home, school, work, and in social situations. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, including trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be used in conjunction with other medications such as those for depression, high blood pressure, and heart issues. Health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical exam, including eye and hearing tests, before beginning medication. Patients should be informed of the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their health care providers. They should also ask questions about the history of their family, lifestyle, and any medical issues that have occurred previously.
The doctor must examine the patient closely to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they hinder the person's ability to function in more than one setting. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the diagnostic manual published by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria diagnose adhd uk for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD.
The physician will look over the symptoms to determine their severity and to rule out other disorders that could trigger them. People suffering from learning disorders typically exhibit ADHD-like symptoms. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed. The clinician will also look at whether the person has any medical conditions such as thyroid issues, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD.
The doctor may suggest battery test, such as a cognitive testing or brain imaging to evaluate the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend an entire medical assessment and laboratory tests, including an entire blood count and cholesterol test.
Counseling
Talk to your doctor if you think that you might have ADHD. They may refer you to specialists who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is required by discussing how symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also explain alternatives to treatment, such as behavior therapy.
If your family doctor isn't able to provide an in-depth analysis of your symptoms, you can find online specialists in Telemedicine. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can assist in managing a range of mental health issues, including ADHD. Session take place via audio or video chat and are confidential.
It is important to feel comfortable and confident with the online counselor. Ask them about their experience and education with adults with ADHD. Be sure that they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they are hesitant to do so, it may be a sign that they're not qualified or are not willing to work with adults suffering from ADHD.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge, but it's a vital step towards controlling your symptoms and gaining control over your life. It can help you realize that your struggles with focus and organization aren't the result of laziness. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.