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ADHD Diagnosis Consult a specialist if suspect you be suffering from ADHD. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also review your medical history. They will check the impact of your symptoms in various settings, such as school, at home and social situations. They will also determine how long you've had these symptoms. Symptoms If you suspect your child may be suffering from ADHD Talk to your doctor. They can look for signs by asking you and your teachers to fill out questionnaires and ask them to perform some tests. They can also conduct a physical examination, including tests for the ear and eyes. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) which is a non-invasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves, which are higher in children with ADHD. A diagnosis of ADHD requires that the signs have been present for a long time before the age of 12 for the child. It should cause significant impairment in two key environments, such as school or at work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD, doctors use psychiatric guidelines that include a detailed description about the symptoms and their duration as and the degree of impairment. Parents might not be aware of the more typical ADHD symptoms because children have difficulty discerning between normal and abnormal behavior. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses can also cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD are also prone to problems with self-esteem and relationships which can lead to depression. Sleep problems can cause ADHD symptoms. They are more likely than others to drink alcohol or use drugs, which could be detrimental to their health. The impulsiveness that is associated with the disorder can lead to financial issues or even bankruptcy. It's crucial that kids get an accurate ADHD diagnosis. This will help them manage their symptoms and live an enjoyable, productive life. Diagnosis If you or a family member has been struggling to organize or is having trouble staying focused in class, have trouble following directions at work, have social issues, or other concerns that could be due to ADHD, it is important to consult a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist, can help make the diagnosis. Some primary care providers are also trained to recognize ADHD. The process of evaluation involves a long interview and a discussion of symptoms. The health care professional will review the person's medical, mental and family history to identify other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms. For example certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease or head injuries, as well as certain medications can cause similar symptoms to those experienced by ADHD. Other mental health issues, such as mood disorders and anxiety 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 inquire about the person’s home and school life, such as how often they are absent from school or fail to finish their homework. The doctor may also want to talk to other people in the patient's life, like coaches and teachers and may also request that the patient bring journals. The person who is being evaluated should be able to share their feelings with the examiner, and not hold back information in fear that they will be criticised or criticized. This will enhance the accuracy of the evaluation and increase the chances that a diagnosis will be precise. Treatment If you or your child has ADHD, getting a diagnosis can be a source of relief. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or lack of intelligence standing in the way of success and it gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. The diagnosis must be followed up by treatment. Adults who suffer from ADHD are often also suffering from other mental health issues, including anxiety or depression. Other conditions, like a chronic headache or sleep disorder, may produce symptoms similar to ADHD. A mental health specialist or health care professional will examine the patient and their family members thoroughly to determine ADHD. They will review 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 use standardized rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists. They will also take psychological tests to assess working memory, executive functioning spatial and visual (related to space) and reasoning skills. Many people suffering from ADHD find that diet and exercise can aid in reducing their symptoms. They should stay away from smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also adhere to an appropriate diet, plan their meals and have healthy snacks readily available to ensure they don't skip meals. Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you are comfortable with for suggestions. A teacher is a good example. You can also call your insurance company to find out who's certified to assess adults or contact the nearest medical institution or hospital. It is important to locate a specialist who is board-certified in psychology or psychiatry and has experience diagnosing ADHD. Medication The use of ADHD medications can help people with the disorder better manage their symptoms, as well as enhance their performance at work, school as well as in social situations. However, stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD can also trigger various side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. diagnose adhd should not be taken in conjunction with other medications, including those for depression or high blood pressure and heart problems. Health professionals recommend that adolescents and children undergo an entire physical examination, including eye and hearing tests prior to beginning treatment. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask about the history of their family and lifestyle habits as well as prior medical problems. The physician must carefully examine the patient to determine whether the symptoms are ongoing, and if they affect the person's ability in multiple environments. The criteria for making a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD is defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its diagnostic manual, called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The clinician will examine the symptoms to determine their severity, and also to rule out other disorders that might be the cause. For example, people who suffer from a learning disability often exhibit ADHD-like symptoms, and someone with an anxiety disorder may be misdiagnosed as having ADHD. The physician will also examine whether the patient has any medical conditions like thyroid disorders, that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD. The clinician may suggest a battery test, like an assessment of cognitive function or brain imaging to evaluate the severity of the symptoms. He may also suggest a full medical evaluation, as well as laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol panel. Counseling If you suspect that you may have ADHD, talk to your family physician. They can provide referrals to specialists who specialize in screening for ADHD. They can also assist you in determining whether medication is needed by discussing how symptoms affect the daily life of your child or you. They can also discuss alternative treatment options, such as behavior therapy. If your family physician is unable conduct a detailed analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who are experts in telemedicine can be found. For instance, Amwell connects patients with licensed specialists who can help manage a range of mental health issues, including ADHD. Sessions are conducted through video or audio chat, and are confidential. It is essential that you feel at ease and confident with the online counselor. Ask them about their experience and training with adults suffering from ADHD. Make sure they are able to answer your questions with precision. If they are hesitant to do so this could be a sign that they are unqualified or are not willing to work with adults with ADHD. It can be a challenge to obtain an ADHD diagnosis however it is an essential step to manage your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It will help you realize that your issues with organization and focus aren't the result of inability to focus. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people with undiagnosed ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs, and a healthy lifestyle. It is normal for people suffering from ADHD to suffer from other psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. A therapist can teach you how to deal with ADHD and other disorders.