How to Know If You Have ADHD
Getting a diagnosis for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is important, but it’s not always easy. You have to know what the symptoms are, the risk factors, and the causes of ADHD. There are also some complications of ADHD that you need to know about.
What Are The Symptoms Of ADHD
Symptoms of ADHD vary from person to person. A person with ADHD may be impulsive, have problems paying attention, and have difficulty organizing their time. But there are some key signs that can help to identify a person who may need treatment for ADHD.
The best way to tell if your child has ADHD is to talk with the child’s doctor. Doctors have a checklist of questions to ask to help identify possible symptoms. They will also review the child’s school record and physical exam to determine if there are any other conditions causing the symptoms.
The doctor may also refer the child to a child psychologist or psychiatrist. A mental health professional can help the child and parents develop new attitudes and skills to manage the disorder.
Causes Of ADHD
Having ADHD can have a long-term impact on an individual’s life. Symptoms can interfere with school, relationships, and work. ADHD can also lead to stress and low self-esteem. ADHD is diagnosed at any age.
ADHD is a brain-based disorder that affects the neurotransmitters in the brain. The brain’s neurotransmitters play an important role in transmitting signals between nerve cells. When the neurotransmitters are out of balance, information processing is impaired, and impulse control is compromised.
There are two main factors that can contribute to ADHD: genetic factors and environmental factors. Genetic factors include fetal exposure to toxic substances, which can cause trauma to the brain. Other factors include exposure to lead, PCBs, and pesticides.
The symptoms of ADHD can be associated with other health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. In addition, ADHD may be associated with substance abuse.
Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Getting a formal diagnosis for ADHD is an important first step to a healthy life. The process can take some time and there are no set rules. However, a formal diagnosis can help you and your family understand the problems you’re facing.
The first step to getting a diagnosis is talking to your child’s doctor. Medications are often prescribed to help alleviate symptoms, but you don’t want to put your child on them if they don’t need it. If you’re worried about medications, consider a therapy approach to help your child manage their symptoms.
There are several types of tests that can be used to help diagnose ADHD. These include cognitive screenings, rating scales, and questionnaires.
These tests are designed to measure verbal memory, impulsivity, processing skills, and learning disabilities. These tests can be administered by a healthcare professional or completed by the patient.
Risk Factors Of ADHD
Several investigations have been carried out to identify the risk factors of ADHD in children. A better understanding of these factors can lead to more effective treatment methods.
Genetics plays an important role in pathogenesis. The presence of certain genes in a person increases their risk of developing ADHD. Some of these genes are associated with the hormone dopamine, while others are associated with brain development. The link between ADHD and genetics has been proven in several family studies.
Environmental toxins have also been linked to ADHD. In particular, lead in household paint and toxic lead levels in older apartments are touted as ADHD risk factors.
Social environment can also influence the risk of developing impulsive behavior. ADHD is also associated with premature stress.
Research has also shown that environmental toxins and brain injuries can lead to ADHD. In addition, there are many other risk factors.
Complications Of ADHD
Among the complications of ADHD are poor performance in school, poor relationships with peers, a high risk of accidents, and a reduced self-esteem. In addition, people with ADHD may also be at risk for substance abuse and legal problems.
A professional evaluation is important to rule out other conditions, including schizophrenia or other mental disorders. A doctor will also ask about other health conditions and medical history. He or she will perform a physical examination and use ADHD rating scales. The doctor will also look at how the symptoms affect your child’s social, occupational, and academic activities.
ADHD symptoms usually appear before the age of 12. However, some people may not be diagnosed until a later age. This can lead to difficulty getting a proper diagnosis.
