ADHD Tests for Children Research Note
By Reader's Digest Editors
A brief digest about this topic
Unfortunately, there's no one test that will absolutely show that your child has ADHD. Instead, your doctor will mainly rely on your observations, and those of people who are close to your child, like his teachers and babysitters. To make an ADHD diagnosis, your pediatrician is likely to give your child a complete physical exam, and may check the child's hearing and vision. The doctor may order blood tests for lead levels or thyroid problems, and might recommend brain scans such as EEGs, CTs, or MRIs. The doctor is likely to use questionnaires to help pinpoint specific behaviors, as well as reviews of your child's school performance, social development, and emotional functioning.
Fast Facts:- No lab test can diagnose ADHD.
- Some lab tests can diagnose other conditions whose symptoms mimic ADHD.
- Rating scales can help diagnose ADHD symptoms, including the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale, and Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC).
- The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) lists the specific behaviors that children with ADHD will have.
- Once your doctor diagnoses your child with ADHD, a combination of behavioral therapy and medication can effectively manage the problem.
ADHD Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - How is ADHD diagnosed on MedicineNet
medicinenet.com — “Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms include impulsivity and inattention. Get information on causes, diagnosis, treatment, medications and research.” View full resource at medicinenet.com
How Pediatricians Make an ADHD Diagnosis | ADDitude - ADHD & LD Children and Adults
additudemag.com — “New ADHD diagnosis guidelines for pediatricians aim to curb the rampant increase in ADHD misdiagnoses for children. ADHD symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information for adults and children from experts in attention deficit and learning disabilities like dyslexia. How to manage ADD medications, set up school accommodations for your child, help your marriage to an ADD/ADHD adult parent children with discipline problems, use alternative treatments, succeed at work, and manage time and money.” View full resource at additudemag.com
Diagnosing ADHD in Children | Psych Central
psychcentral.com — “Up to 10% of school-age children now carry a diagnosis of attention deficit disorder (also known as ADHD or ADD), and are in active treatment for the concern.” View full resource at psychcentral.com
LD/ADHD Psycho/Educational Assessment
home.gwu.edu — “LD/ADHD Psycho/Educational Assessment” View full resource at home.gwu.edu
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