ADHD Testing

ADHD is known as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The disorder was also formerly known as ADD. In common language the two are still used relatively interchangeably, however in the medical field ADD is not acknowledged as the correct terminology. ADHD tests are used to determine if patients exhibit the symptoms of the disorder.

WHAT IS ADHD?

In the United States, 5.4 million children are diagnosed with ADHD. Although adults can also have the disorder, it is much more commonly diagnosed in children. The disorder generally manifests itself in children by causing the child to be inattentive, hyperactive or impulsive. It can even cause a combination of these behaviors. Most children have trouble paying attention. However, if these behaviors get to the point where they are causing trouble at home or in the classroom, it may be time to take them to a pediatrician to best tested.

TYPES OF ADHD

There are three different subtypes of ADHD. Children may experience different subtypes of the disorder as they develop into adulthood. The subtypes of ADHD are:

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation- This subtype indicates that a child has symptoms of inattention but does not show impulsive or hyperactive symptoms. This subtype is typically where the term ADD is used in conversation.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation- This subtype is the opposite of the one listed above. A child with this subtype, has symptoms that classify as hyperactive and impulsive, but not enough symptoms to be considered inattentive.

Combined Presentation- This subtype indicates that a child shows enough symptoms in each category to be considered inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive.

COMPONENTS OF AN ADHD TEST

There is no specific or required test for ADHD. However diagnosis of the disorder usually consists of the following segments.

• Compiling of Medical Records- This includes taking a look at the child’s personal medical records as well as gathering family medical history.

• Interviews- A pediatrician may interview parents, teachers and the child to determine if symptoms are accurate and chronic.

• Medical Examination- A medical exam may be performed to determine if the symptoms are being caused by other developmental or medical conditions.

• ADHD Ratings- These scales may be used to help the pediatrician gather information on children to assess severity and longevity of symptoms.

Children do have to meet the requirements laid out in the DSM-5 to be diagnosed as having ADHD. The number of symptoms required by the DSM-5 for a child to have ADHD depends on their age. A child 16 and under must show 6 symptoms, while a child 17 and over must show 5. These symptoms have to be shown for 6 months and be deemed inappropriate for a child’s stage of development.

INATTENTIVE SYMPTOMS

• Forgetful
• Distracted easily
• Trouble maintaining attention
• Does not follow instructions
• Lacks organizational skills
• Loses vital things
• Often side-tracked
• Trouble listening
• Avoids long mental challenges

HYPERACTIVE AND IMPULSIVE SYMPTOMS

• Talks constantly
• Always on the go
• Fidgets
• Trouble playing quietly
• Interrupts
• Answers before question is finished
• Trouble waiting

If your child exhibits many of these symptoms on a day-in/day-out basis and it seems to be out-of-line with their development stage, it may be time to talk with a pediatrician. Our pediatricians at Kernodle Clinic in Mebane and Elon, North Carolina can consult with you and your child to provide ADHD testing if necessary. Kernodle Clinic diagnoses and treats children in the Alamance County area. Contact us today to set up an appointment for your child.