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Finding Accurate ADD ADHD Testing
Finding Accurate ADD ADHD Testing By Mary Asomah...
Although there are many ADHD quick test surveys listing symptoms of ADHD behaviour, these surveys should not
be used as a sole diagnosis for ADHD.
When considering ADD/ADHD testing, parents concerned with their child's behaviour should consult a qualified
medical practitioner, preferably one that has experience dealing with children and also with ADHD and other related
disorders.
Finding adequate ADD/ADHD testing and obtaining a proper diagnosis for a child is essential in determining the
correct treatment.
There are three categories within the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Spectrum which are...
ADHD, predominantly inattentive
ADHD, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
ADHD, predominantly combined
Investigations Involved in ADD ADHD Testing
In thorough ADD/ADHD testing, a health care professional will consult criteria of the common behaviours exhibited
from these three categories of ADHD and compare them with the behaviour of the child.
Through ADD/ADHD testing the health care professional will gather a variety of information about the child in order
to establish a proper diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD testing also includes an interview with the child as well as information gathered from a Behaviour
Rating Scale or ADHD checklist
given to the child's parents, teachers and other adults having close contact with the child, such as a babysitter.
The health care professional will also look at the child's medical history, examining the child's social,
emotional, behavioural and educational history.
Parents of a child going through ADD/ADHD testing should ensure that health care professionals are following
through with all of these investigative measures, in order that a proper diagnosis can be made.
ADD ADHD testing to Rule out Other Medical Conditions
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms of the disorder mimics the symptoms of other disorders.
These disorders include depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, conduct disorder and
bipolar disorder.
ADD/ADHD testing should include verbal and written testing for these associated disorders to ensure that
a child isn't in fact suffering from another disorder or perhaps has a combination of these disorders.
ADD/ADHD testing that includes testing for learning disabilities can ensure that the best education plan
can be established for the child.
ADD/ADHD testing to Rule out Other Medical Problems
Other medical problems can cause ADHD type behaviours. A child's ADD/ADHD testing should also include...
Hearing and Vision testing: This can cause an interference with a child's attention and success
in school.
Lead Testing: Even a small amount of lead in a child's body can cause ADHD type behaviour.
Thyroid Testing: A poorly functioning thyroid can affect a child's energy and attention.
Blood Testing: A low blood cell count in a child can cause low energy and poor concentration.
Thorough ADD/ADHD testing can ensure that a child receives an accurate diagnosis and can soon receive the
best treatment possible.
