How to Know If You Have ADHD
If you think that you might have ADHD, the first step is to talk to your doctor. There are many treatments for ADHD that can help you manage your symptoms.
Symptoms of ADHD can be difficult to diagnose without a complete medical examination, questionnaires and a psychological assessment. Your doctor may also order a hearing and vision test, brain scan or EEG.
What Are The Symptoms Of ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that causes a person to have trouble paying attention and staying organized, to be easily distracted or restless, or to have problems with self-control or impulsive behaviors. It usually starts in childhood and affects people of all ages.
ADHD can be a difficult condition to diagnose, because it is similar to other conditions or illnesses. It can also run in families.
It is common for people with ADHD to have comorbid disorders, including anxiety and depression.
If you or your child has symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, talk to your doctor about getting an evaluation. They can make the diagnosis and work on a plan to manage the symptoms. They may prescribe medications to help improve focus and reduce impulsivity.
Causes Of ADHD
There are several causes of adhd. Those include genetics and environmental factors such as toxins in the environment or brain damage during pregnancy.
An underdeveloped frontal lobe, for example, is the main cause of inattentive ADHD. This part of the brain is responsible for planning and executing tasks, understanding cause-and-effect, changing habits, learning from mistakes, and reading social cues.
Other factors that can lead to symptoms of inattention are learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, substance use, head injuries, thyroid conditions and certain medications. These may have similar symptoms as ADHD, so a thorough psychiatric evaluation is required to determine the cause.
Getting Diagnosed With ADHD
Getting diagnosed with ADHD is a process that requires a medical professional. This person might be a pediatrician, psychologist, psychiatrist or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
Doctors and other mental health professionals diagnose ADHD according to the diagnostic criteria found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. The diagnosis is based on a clinical interview using a standardized ADHD rating scale and screening tests to rule out other conditions that can have similar symptoms, such as sleep disorders or anxiety.
A doctor will also ask questions about the patient’s life and behavior in different settings, including school. He or she might also speak with family members and other caregivers.
Risk Factors Of ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with high comorbidity and a significant impact on child development. Several factors are believed to contribute to the risk of ADHD, including genetics and environmental toxins in pregnancy and early childhood.
A recent study found that women who smoke during their pregnancy have a higher chance of having a child with ADHD symptoms later on in life. This isn’t necessarily because smoking causes ADHD, but it may be because cigarettes contain chemicals that are harmful to a baby’s developing brain.
Other risk factors include being born prematurely or experiencing a traumatic birth. This can cause a lot of stress for both parents and children.
Complications Of ADHD
ADHD is a complicated condition that can cause problems in many areas of a person’s life. Physical health, mental health, and work and family life are just a few areas where ADHD can lead to trouble.
For example, a person with ADHD may have difficulty staying focused on tasks. They also may have a tendency to forget things.
The symptoms of ADHD are caused by a neurological imbalance in the brain. This can result in decreased concentration, impulsive behavior, and restlessness.
There are a number of different treatments for ADHD, including medications. These can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve a person’s quality of life. However, they are not a cure for the disorder and require continued medical supervision.
