ADHD Diagnosis If you suspect that you may have ADHD and are concerned, you should speak to an expert. The specialist will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your life. They will also look over your medical background. They will also examine how you feel in different situations, like at school, at home and in social situations. They will also determine the length of time you've had these symptoms for. 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 ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct 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 analyzes beta- and theta-waves which are more prevalent in children suffering from ADHD. The symptoms must have been present prior to the child reaching the age of 12. It should cause significant impairment in two main environments, like school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults doctors employ the psychiatric guidelines, which include a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration, as and the degree of impairment. Children often struggle to tell the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, so parents might overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress and mental health issues and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms as ADHD. People suffering from ADHD may also have issues with relationships and self-esteem which can cause depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol and take drugs, which could be detrimental to their health. The disorder can cause financial issues or even bankruptcies because of the impulsiveness. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis to aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a more pleasant and more productive life. Diagnosis It is important to consult your doctor if someone in your family is suffering from issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing their life, has trouble paying attention at school, struggles with following instructions at work or any other symptoms that could be due to ADHD. A mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist could assist in diagnosing ADHD. Some primary care providers also have training in diagnosing ADHD. The evaluation process will involve an extensive interview and discussion of the symptoms. The health care provider will review the person's medical, mental, and family history to determine if there are any other issues that may be causing symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, head injuries, and certain drugs can trigger similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders can also occur with ADHD and lead to problems. 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. In addition to a complete physical examination, the clinician will ask about the person's life at home and at school, including the frequency with which they miss class or fails to finish homework. The doctor may also want to speak with other people in the person's life, like teachers and coaches, and may request that the patient bring an account of their lives. The person being assessed should be able and willing to discuss their opinions with the assessor. They should not be afraid of being critiqued or criticized. This can improve the accuracy of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis is correct. Treatment A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for you or your child. It can help you understand that it is not inattention, or a deficit in intelligence that is hindering your progress. It also gives you the steps to manage your symptoms. However, the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often suffering from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear similar to ADHD. To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the person and their family. They will review the person's past from birth to childhood, ask about the person's experience at school and how their family members interact with each with each. They will also employ standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to assess working memory, executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to space) and reasoning abilities. Many people suffering from ADHD find that exercise and diet can reduce the symptoms. They should stay away from the use of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. They should also follow an appropriate diet and ensure they plan meal times and keep healthful snacks on hand so they don't have to skip meals. Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you are comfortable with for recommendations. https://writeablog.net/warbagel1/5-cliches-about-getting-a-diagnosis-for-adhd-you-should-avoid is an excellent example. You can also call your insurance company to find out who is licensed to evaluate adults, or call an area medical school or hospital. It is crucial to find a doctor who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD and who is board certified in psychiatry or psychology. Medication The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder manage their symptoms and also improve their functioning at work, school at home, and in social settings. 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 with certain other medications, for example, those used to treat depression, high blood pressure, and heart conditions. Before beginning treatment, health care professionals recommend that children and adolescents undergo a thorough physical examination that includes eye and hearing tests. Patients should be educated about the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their health care professionals. They should also ask questions about the history of their family, lifestyle, and medical history. The physician must closely examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms persist and if they hinder the person's ability in multiple environments. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an official diagnostic manual released by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD. The clinician will review the symptoms to determine the severity and to rule out other disorders that could trigger them. People with learning disorders often exhibit symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual suffering from anxiety disorder may be incorrectly diagnosed. The physician will also determine if the patient suffers from any medical conditions like thyroid disorders that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. The doctor may suggest battery test, like a cognitive test or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend an extensive medical evaluation along with lab tests like a comprehensive blood test and cholesterol test. Counseling Speak to your doctor if you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD. They can refer you to experts who are skilled in ADHD screening. They can also help you determine whether medication is required by discussing how the symptoms impact the daily lives of your child or yourself. They can also provide alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy. If your family physician isn't able to conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, online counselors who specialize in telemedicine are available. For example, Amwell connects patients with licensed professionals who can help manage a variety of mental health issues, such as ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video and audio chat, and are confidential and secure. When selecting an online counselor it is essential to feel secure and confident with them. Find out about their education and experience with adults with ADHD and ensure that they can answer your questions in depth. If they are reluctant to answer your questions this could be an indicator that they are unqualified or are not willing to work with adults who suffer from ADHD. The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be difficult however it's an essential step towards managing your symptoms and gaining control of your life. It can help you understand that your issues with organization and focus aren't the result of laziness or low intelligence. It's also reassuring to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, careers and lifestyles. It is common for people suffering from ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to manage ADHD and other conditions.