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ADHD Diagnosis Consult a specialist if you think you might be suffering from ADHD. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your life. They will also go over any medical history you have. They will determine the impact of your symptoms in various settings, such as home, school and social settings. They will also determine how long you have had these symptoms. Signs and symptoms Speak to your child's doctor if you suspect that he or she may have ADHD. Your child's teacher and you can fill out a questionnaire to check for signs. They could also ask them to take some tests. They can also conduct physical examinations, including eye and ear tests. They can also make use of FDA-approved Neuropsychiatric EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) that is a noninvasive scanner that detects beta- and theta waves which are more prevalent in children who suffer from ADHD. A diagnosis of ADHD is a sign that the symptoms have been present since before the child reached age 12. It has to cause significant impairment in two primary settings, such as school and work. There are three presentations of ADHD: predominately inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and combined. To determine if an adult has ADHD doctors employ the psychiatric guidelines, which include specific information about the symptoms and their duration, as well as the degree of impairment. Children often struggle to discern the difference between normal and abnormal behavior, so parents might overlook some of the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD. Stress, mental health issues, and physical illnesses may cause similar symptoms similar to ADHD. People suffering from 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 others to drink alcohol and take drugs, which are harmful to their health. The disorder can lead to financial problems or even bankruptcies due the impulse-control issues. It's important for kids to receive a correct diagnosis to aid them in managing their ADHD symptoms and lead a happier and more productive life. Diagnosis If you or a family member have been struggling to organize, have trouble paying attention in class, have trouble following instructions at work, experience social problems, or have other issues that could be due to ADHD, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. A mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist can help diagnose ADHD. Certain primary care providers have training in diagnosing ADHD. The evaluation process will involve a lengthy interview and discussion of symptoms. The health professional will examine the person's medical, mental and family history to determine if there are any other factors that could be contributing to symptoms. Some medical conditions such as thyroid diseases and head injuries as well as some medications can cause symptoms that are similar to ADHD. Other mental health issues, such as mood disorders and anxiety can also be associated 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 doctor will also inquire about the person's family and school life, such as the frequency they skip classes or do not finish their homework. The clinician may also ask to speak with other people who are involved in the person's daily life, such as coaches and teachers. They may also request that the person bring an account book. The person being evaluated should be able to share their feelings openly with the examiner, and not hold back information in fear that they will be criticized or judged. This will improve the quality of the evaluation and increase the probability that the diagnosis is accurate. Treatment A diagnosis of ADHD is a great relief for your child or you. It can help you realize that it's not laziness or insanity hindering your success and it gives you ways to deal with your symptoms. But adhd adult diagnosis needs to be followed by treatment. Adults suffering from ADHD typically have other mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Other diseases, such as sleep disorders or chronic headaches may cause symptoms like ADHD. To determine if someone has ADHD, a health care provider or mental health professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the individual and their family. They will go over the person's life history back to childhood, ask about the person's experience at school and how family members interact with each with each. They will also utilize standard rating scales and ADHD symptoms checklists. They will also perform psychological tests to assess working memory, executive functioning, visual and spatial (related to space) and reasoning abilities. Exercise and diet can help reduce symptoms for many people suffering from ADHD. They should stay clear of the use of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They should also maintain a healthy diet, schedule meals and have healthy snacks available to ensure they don't skip meals. Ask your therapist, doctor or any other professional you trust for recommendations. Teachers are a good example. You can also contact your insurance provider to find out if they are certified to evaluate adults or contact an area medical hospital or school. It's important to find a specialist who is certified by a board-certified psychologist or psychiatrist and has experience diagnosing ADHD. Medication The use of ADHD medications can help those who suffer from the disorder to manage their symptoms, as well as enhance their performance at school, work as well as in social settings. However, stimulant medications used to treat ADHD may also cause various side effects, including difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss. They should not be used with certain other medications, such as those used to treat depression, high blood pressure and heart-related conditions. Health professionals suggest that children and adolescents undergo an entire physical examination including hearing and eye tests, before beginning medication. Health care professionals should discuss with patients about the benefits and risks of taking ADHD medication. They should also ask about family history as well as lifestyle habits and any medical issues that have occurred previously. The physician must carefully examine the patient to determine if the symptoms are persistent, and if they affect the person's ability to function in more than one environment. 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 physician will look over the symptoms to determine the severity and to rule out other conditions that could cause them. People suffering from learning disorders often exhibit symptoms resembling those of ADHD. A person with anxiety disorder may be incorrectly diagnosed. The doctor will also look at whether the patient has any medical issues like thyroid disorders which could resemble the symptoms of ADHD. The clinician might suggest a battery of tests, such as brain imaging or cognitive testing to determine how symptoms are affecting the individual. He may also suggest an entire medical examination, along with laboratory tests such a complete blood test and cholesterol test. Counseling Consult your doctor if you think that you might have ADHD. They can refer you to professionals who are certified in ADHD screening. They can also discuss how symptoms affect you or your child's daily routine and help you decide whether medication is required. They can also provide alternative options for treatment, like therapy for behavior. If your family doctor cannot conduct a thorough analysis of your symptoms, online counselors who are specialists in telemedicine can be found. Amwell for instance, connects patients to licensed specialists who can address a variety of mental health issues including ADHD. Sessions are conducted via audio and video chat, and are confidential and secure. When choosing an online counselor it is essential to feel comfortable and trusting with them. Be sure to inquire about their training and experience with adults with ADHD, and make sure they are able to answer your questions in detail. If they don't do so, this could be a sign that they're not competent or able to work as a professional with adults with ADHD. It can be challenging to receive an ADHD diagnosis but it's essential to be aware of your symptoms and taking control of your own life. It can help you understand that the issues you face with focus and organization aren't a sign of a lack of motivation or insanity. It's also reassuring to know that you're not the only one. Many people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD struggle to maintain relationships, jobs and a healthy lifestyle. People with ADHD are more likely to be suffering from other psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. A therapist can help you learn how to manage ADHD and other disorders.