The Importance of an Efficient ADD ADHD Evaluation
|
An accurate ADHD evaluation can allow a child to receive valuable treatment that will improve their quality of life.
Unfortunately some ADHD ADD evaluations are made with the use of a quick checklist, performed by a non-professional incapable of giving a fair or accurate assessment.
Parents who are concerned about their child's growth and development should discuss their concerns with their doctor.
Parents also should make sure that any ADHD ADD evaluation given to their child is performed by a trained professional.
The ADHD ADD evaluation should incorporate oral and written interviews with the child, as well as interviews with the parents, teachers and any other adult who has close contact with the child, such as a caregiver.
It is also very important that the ADHD ADD evaluation include a full physical examination.
While conducting the ADHD ADD evaluation the health care professional should be made aware of the child's physical, emotional and mental health history, as well as their prenatal care and birth.
The health care professional should use reputable Behaviour Ratings Scales when assessing the child.
The Medical ADHD Evaluation
A full medical examination is very important for any child undergoing an ADHD ADD evaluation.
A medical professional will be able to determine if symptoms associated with ADHD are actually being caused by other medical conditions, such as hearing or vision loss.
A child with an undetected hearing loss may appear to lack concentration and focus on schoolwork.
The medical ADHD ADD evaluation should also test the child’s blood sugar levels, thyroid condition and potential exposure to lead.
ADHD Evaluation Tests for Alternate Disorders
What can appear to some as ADHD symptoms can actually be the symptoms of another disorder.
A professional health examiner should test a child for other disorders as part of a thorough ADHD ADD evaluation.
Disorders that have symptoms that mimic ADHD symptoms include autism, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
In some cases a child may have co-existing disorders. A health care professional who administers a thorough ADHD ADD evaluation can detect any co-existing conditions and ensure that a child receives all the help he needs.
An ADHD assessment should also include testing for lead exposure, thyroid problems, dyslexia, and blood testing.
Any of these conditions can produce symptoms which may be misdiagnosed as ADHD symptoms.
ADHD Evaluation for Learning Disabilities
A child who is receiving an ADHD ADD evaluation should also be tested for learning disabilities.
Some learning disabilities have symptoms that mimic ADHD symptoms, such as dyslexia. And it is common for children who have ADHD to also have learning disabilities.
Identifying any potential learning disabilities can ensure that the best education plan is laid out for the child.
