Identifying the cause of ADHD is still a puzzle, and diagnosing it can be equally frustrating. To accurately diagnose ADHD, a doctor will need to evaluate the person using several criteria as there are many other disorders, like sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, and certain kinds of learning disabilities, which can have similar symptoms.Though ADHD is a lifelong condition with no known cure, it can be managed. Treatment by medication is considered the most effective, particularly with kids, but there are other types of treatment or therapies that can be effective to improve the ability to pay attention or focus, control impulsive behavior, and lessen or curb hyperactivity. Some people do best with a combination of both.
Below are the steps in properly treating and managing ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD
Diagnosis of the disorder involves a medical and social history of the child along with the family together with a physical and neurological assessment. A Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) scan is also done to measure theta and beta brain waves as persons with ADHD have shown a higher ratio of these compared to normal people. Intelligence, aptitude, personality traits, or processing skills are also evaluated.
According to the CDC, at least six or more symptoms of inattention, and hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months in children up to age 16, and five or more for adults 17 and older. These symptoms should be at an extent where it’s inappropriate and disruptive for the person’s development to qualify as ADHD. In addition, these symptoms must be manifested in two or more settings and are not explained better by other mental disorders.
