ADHD Diagnosis Consult a specialist if you think you might have ADHD. The doctor will inquire 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 examine the way you feel in various situations, including at home, school and in social settings. They will also look at how long you have had these symptoms for. Signs and symptoms If you suspect your child may have ADHD, talk to your doctor. They can test for symptoms by asking you and your teachers to complete a questionnaire and may request them to take certain tests. They can also perform physical examinations, such as eye and ear 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 higher in children suffering from ADHD. A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the symptoms have been present since before the age of 12 for the child. It should cause significant impairment in two main situations, such as school and at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To diagnose adults, doctors use mental health guidelines that provide an extensive description of the symptoms and their duration, as well as the level of impairment. Parents might not be aware of the more typical ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and unusual behavior. Stress mental health issues and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. https://www.openlearning.com/u/huynhkatz-sjiru7/blog/5KillerQuoraQuestionsOnGetDiagnosedWithAdhd who suffer from ADHD might also have issues with self-esteem and relationships, which can cause depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol and take drugs, which could be detrimental to their health. The disorder can lead to financial problems or even bankruptcies due to the insanity. It's important for kids to get a proper diagnosis as it will aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a healthier and more productive life. Diagnosis It is important to consult your doctor if someone in your family has issues with social interaction, is having trouble organizing, has trouble paying attention in school, has trouble following instructions at work, or has other signs that may be due to ADHD. A mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help you make a diagnosis. Certain primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD. The evaluation process involves an extensive interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will review the person's medical, mental and family history to determine other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. For instance certain medical conditions such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as some drugs can cause similar symptoms to those of ADHD. Other mental health issues such as mood disorders and anxiety, can also be a result of 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 exam, the clinician will ask about the person's life at home and at school, such as the frequency with which they miss class or fails to finish homework. The clinician will also ask to speak to other people who are involved in the person's daily life, such as teachers and coaches. They may request that the patient bring a journal. The person being assessed should be willing and able to discuss their feelings with the assessor. They should not be afraid of being critiqued or criticized. This will enhance the quality of the assessment and increase the chances that the diagnosis is correct. Treatment If you or your child suffers from ADHD being diagnosed can be a source of relief. It can help you understand that it is not laziness, or a lack in intelligence, that is preventing you from achieving success. It also teaches you the steps to manage your symptoms. But the diagnosis must be followed by treatment. Adults with ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Other diseases, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, may be the cause of symptoms that resemble ADHD. To determine if someone has ADHD, the health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough examination of the individual and their family. They will look over the person's past from birth to childhood, inquire about the person's experience at school and how their family members interact with each other. They will also employ standard rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also conduct psychological tests to test executive function, spatial and visual skills (related to spatial 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 adhere to a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available so they don't miss meals. Ask your doctor, therapist or other professionals you are comfortable with for suggestions. A teacher is an excellent example. You can also call your insurance provider to find out who is licensed to evaluate adults, or call an area medical institution or hospital. It is important to find a specialist who is certified by the board in psychology or psychiatry and has experience diagnosing ADHD. Medication Medications for ADHD can help people with the disorder control their symptoms and improve their performance at school, at home or at work, as well as in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD can also trigger a number of side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be used in conjunction with other medications for depression, such as those used to treat or high blood pressure and heart conditions. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo a complete physical exam including hearing and eye tests prior to beginning treatment. Health professionals should speak with patients about the advantages and dangers of taking ADHD medication. They should also inquire about family history, lifestyle, and medical history. The doctor must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent and if they impact the person's ability in more than one setting. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, an official diagnostic manual released by the American Psychiatric Association, contains the criteria for making a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD. The doctor will examine the symptoms to determine their severity and rule out other conditions that could cause them. People suffering from a learning disorder often show symptoms resembling those of ADHD. An individual with anxiety disorder might be mistakenly diagnosed. The doctor will also take into consideration whether the patient has an illness, such as thyroid disease, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD. The clinician may suggest a battery test, like a cognitive test or brain imaging to assess the severity of the symptoms. The doctor may also recommend a complete medical evaluation and laboratory tests, which could include a complete blood count and cholesterol panel. Counseling Talk to your doctor if you believe that you might have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who are trained in ADHD screening. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how the symptoms affect the daily life of your child or yourself. They can also provide other options for treatment, like therapy for behavior. If your family doctor isn't able to provide an in-depth assessment of your symptoms you can search online for specialists in telemedicine. Amwell, for example, connects patients to licensed providers who can manage a range of mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are confidential. It is important to feel comfortable and confident in your online counselor. Ask them about their experiences and training with adults with ADHD. Be sure that they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they're not willing to do so it could be a sign that they're not qualified or uninterested in working with adults suffering from ADHD. Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a challenge, but it's a vital step toward managing your symptoms and gaining control of your life. It can help you understand that your issues in focusing and organization aren't the result of laziness or low intelligence. It's also comforting to know you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and healthy lifestyles. It is normal for people with ADHD to have other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.