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ADHD Diagnosis Consult a specialist if you think you might have ADHD. The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also look over any medical history you have. They will check the impact of your symptoms in different settings, such as school, home, and social situations. They will also assess how long you've had these symptoms for. Symptoms Speak to your child's doctor should you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. They can check for symptoms by asking you and their teachers to complete questionnaires and request them to take some tests. They can also do a physical exam, including eye and hearing tests. They can also use the FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system which is a non-invasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves which are typically more prominent in children with ADHD. A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms were present prior to the time the child reached age 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two primary settings, such as work and school. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. The psychiatric guidelines used by doctors to diagnose adults include a detailed description of the symptoms, their duration and the level of impairment they cause. Parents may miss some of the more common ADHD symptoms since children have difficulty distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviors. Stress and mental health issues and physical ailments can cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. People with ADHD are also prone to problems with self-esteem and relationships which can cause depression. Sleep issues can worsen ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than other people to drink alcohol and take drugs, which could be detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness of ADHD can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It is essential that children receive a proper ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live a happier, more productive life. Diagnosis If you or a family member have been struggling to organize or has trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following directions at work, suffer from issues with social interaction, or other concerns that could be related to ADHD it is essential to consult with a physician to get an evaluation. A mental health professional, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, can assist in determining the diagnosis. Some primary care professionals are also trained to recognize ADHD. The process of evaluation will include a lengthy interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care provider will review the person's medical and mental history as well as family history to determine other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid diseases or head injuries, as well as certain drugs can cause symptoms similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders can also be a result of ADHD and create 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 thorough physical exam, the doctor will ask about the person's life at home and at school, focusing on the frequency at which the person is absent from class or fails to finish homework. The doctor will also request to speak with other people who are part of the person's everyday life, such as teachers and coaches. They may also ask the person to bring an account book. The person being assessed should be willing and able to openly discuss their feelings with the assessor. They should not be afraid of being critiqued or criticized. This can improve the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the likelihood that the diagnosis is accurate. Treatment If you or your child has ADHD being diagnosed is a great relief. It can help you realize that it's not a lack of effort or lack of intelligence hindering your success. It also gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis must be followed-up with treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD typically suffer from other mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Other diseases, such as chronic headaches or sleep disorders can trigger symptoms that appear like ADHD. To diagnose ADHD, an audiologist or mental health professional will conduct a thorough exam of the individual and their family. They will inquire about the person’s childhood as well as their education and how the family interacts. They will also utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standard rating scales. They will also conduct psychological tests to evaluate executive function, spatial and visual abilities (related to spatial space) and reasoning abilities. Diet and exercise can lessen symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. They should stay clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to healthy food and plan their meals and keep healthy snacks on hand to ensure they don't have to skip meals. You can locate an ADHD specialist by asking for recommendations from your physician or therapist or other trusted professionals, such as an educator. You can also contact your insurance company to find out who's certified to assess adults, or visit a local medical hospital or school. It's 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 with the disorder manage their symptoms and improve their performance at home, school, work, and in social settings. The stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD can also trigger adverse effects, such as difficulties sleeping and changes in appetite and weight loss. They should not be combined in conjunction with other medications such as those used to treat depression, high blood-pressure and heart problems. Before starting a medication doctors recommend that children and adolescents undergo a thorough physical examination, including eye and hearing tests. Patients should be educated about the risks and advantages of taking ADHD medications by their healthcare providers. They should also ask about family history, lifestyle habits, and any medical issues that have occurred previously. The physician must carefully examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing and if they impact the person's ability to function in more than one setting. The criteria for a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD has been established by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The clinician will review the symptoms to determine their severity and also to rule out any other disorders that might cause them. For instance, people with a learning impairment frequently exhibit symptoms similar to those of ADHD, and a person suffering from an anxiety disorder could be mistakenly diagnosed with ADHD. The clinician will also consider whether the person has a medical condition like thyroid disease, which might mimic the symptoms of ADHD. The clinician may suggest a battery tests, such an assessment of cognitive function 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 panel. Counseling If you suspect you have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, consult your family doctor. 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 the symptoms affect the daily lives of your child or you. They can also explain alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy. If your family physician isn't able to conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms online counselors who are experts in telemedicine are readily available. Amwell, for example, connects patients to licensed providers who can manage a variety of mental health issues like ADHD. Sessions are conducted via video or audio chat and are confidential. It is crucial that you feel comfortable and confident in your online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training for adults with ADHD. Be how to get an adhd diagnosis adhddiagnosis that they are able to answer all your questions with precision. If they are reluctant to do so it could be a sign that they are unqualified or uninterested in working with adults who suffer from ADHD. It can be challenging to get an ADHD diagnosis however it is essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking charge of your own life. It can help you understand that your issues with focus and organization aren't a sign of laziness or low intelligence. It's also a relief to know that you're not alone. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain healthy relationships, jobs and lifestyles. It is common for people with ADHD to have other psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can guide you on how to cope with ADHD and other disorders.