adhd/add evaluations
does my child have adhd or add?
At Here We Grow, we tell parents who ask us this question that the only way to tell is after a thorough evaluation.
We have been treating ADHD in San Antonio for many years, and our experience shows that the only surefire way of knowing that a child has ADHD is with tests and interviews. In addition, we will also need to evaluate the medical history of the child in question for other conditions that are can also cause attention issues such as poor sleep, anxiety, etc. It is a process to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
If you suspect that your child has ADD or ADHD, the first step is to book a consultation with us. Call us today to book a consultation.
how is adhd diagnosed?
A thorough evaluation of your child will determine the diagnosis. Factors considered are the age at which the symptoms began to appear and whether it interferes with their daily activities. The professionals at Here We Grow Pediatrics will also screen for other disorders that may resemble ADHD, such as anxiety, depression, or poor sleep.
One of the first steps to evaluating a child will include the appropriate standardized screening tools for ADHD. Sometimes patients may require several hours of individually administered cognitive, behavioral, and academic tests. This evaluation will pinpoint areas where the child needs additional support to achieve academic success. After the assessment and diagnosis, we can decide whether a child with ADHD will benefit from counseling and medication.
Medical history is another critical piece of the ADHD/ADD puzzle. As one of the leading ADHD pediatricians in San Antonio, we may utilize a series of tests to give us a better picture of your child’s health and how it may be affecting their concentration.
signs of adhd or add
One sign of ADHD is hyperactivity. Many children are naturally very active, but hyperactive children often try to do multiple things at once or bounce from one activity to another. They may also have trouble sitting still or playing quietly. In some cases, the child may have difficulty relaxing. While parents should consult with us to diagnose ADHD, being aware of the warning signs of this disorder can help them provide appropriate treatment and school accommodations for the child.
It is important to remember that some children can be more inattentive than hyperactive and often these children are diagnosed later because they are less disruptive. If you are concerned this might be your child then call to seek professional advice.
how is adhd treated?
Generally speaking, doctors recommend a combination of counseling and medication to manage ADHD symptoms. This combination has been shown to be most effective in improving behavioral and cognitive function. These treatments may include education and counseling about the disorder, adopting new behaviors, and addressing co-occurring mental health conditions.
Depending on your child’s symptoms, you may be prescribed one or more of the following types of therapy:
Behavioral therapy – It teaches parents new ways to respond to their children. These techniques help children learn better ways to communicate their emotions and needs to other people. As your child gets older, they may be able to recognize their own behavioral patterns and work with these more effectively.
Medication – Depending on the severity of the disorder, we may also prescribe medication for ADHD. A child may need medication if their symptoms do not respond to behavioral therapies. These medications generally are not started until the child is six years old, although there are exceptions. Medication for ADHD can be very effective, and the results can be seen relatively quick. While these medications can have side effects, they are generally mild and easily managed. Some side effects may include decreased appetite, sleep disturbances, irritability, and emotional lability.
We will discuss the various treatment options available with parents before moving forward.
get your child diagnosed today
As some of the leading ADHD pediatricians in San Antonio, we know that a diagnosis could cause parents to feel a flood of emotions. Some parents may feel relieved because there is an explanation for the symptoms. Others may feel overwhelmed with deciding what to do next.
The important thing as a parent is not to feel rushed or pressured. If you need time, let us know, and we’ll allow you to process the information before moving ahead. Feel free to call us and book an appointment once you are ready to move ahead with therapy/medication.
book your appointment
At Here We Grow, our goal is to ensure that your child develops into a healthy young adult.
Call or click today to book your appointment.
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