HOW IS ADHD DIAGNOSED ?

 

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• ADHD is a disorder that can affect your thinking, behavior and ability to work. 

• There are three main types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and mixed.

 • Your or your child's health care provider can use a series of tests and criteria to help you understand the type of ADHD you or your child has. 

• During your appointment, the health care provider will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and conduct various behavioral and educational tests to learn more about your or your child's symptoms. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder (ie, a condition that can affect the growth and development of the brain). This condition is more common in children and teenagers, but symptoms can last for a long time. ADHD symptoms can affect the way your child thinks, behaves and interacts with others in their environment.

There is no single test that health professionals use to diagnose ADHD. Therefore, the research process includes many methods, including the use of physical examination and various tests.

Typically, people with ADHD are diagnosed in childhood, which means that a parent or guardian is often involved in the diagnosis and treatment process. That said, your child's health care provider or pediatrician may also seek information about your child from teachers, coaches, or other important adults in your child's life in order to make an accurate diagnosis. good. 2

If you think your child may have ADHD, talking to a healthcare provider is an important first step. A primary care provider or mental health professional (eg, a psychologist or behavioral health specialist) can help you assess symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis, and work with you to develop a recovery plan. treatment that best suits your child's needs. Research in adults

It is important to note that people who start experiencing symptoms in their adulthood, especially older women, often have a late diagnosis. This is because ADHD has historically been diagnosed in young men. Other recent studies have shown that symptoms in women and adults can appear different, which can sometimes make it difficult to recognize the symptoms of ADHD and make an accurate diagnosis, first. Health promotion

Screening for ADHD can begin as early as age four. When taking your child's medical history, your health care provider may ask questions about:3

• Current symptoms you are experiencing

• Any prenatal exposure to tobacco, drugs or alcohol may occur

• Illnesses or complications occurring immediately after birth

• Head injury

• Chronic ear infections

Research shows that there is a strong genetic component to ADHD. It turns out that ADHD runs in families. To assess family history, your child's health care provider will also ask if you or your family members have experienced ADHD symptoms or been diagnosed with ADHD.4

ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity or inattention can interfere with school work. To get a better idea of ​​school performance, your health care provider may ask you the following questions:3

• Have you, a teacher or other caregiver noticed any problems with your child's learning?  What effect do you see your child having at home compared to school?

• How does your child behave at home? • Is behavior different at school or when your child plays with other children? • Does your child have a hard time completing homework or homework? • Are there other emotional, behavioral or cognitive problems you see in your child?