ADD, which today is known as ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a condition that describes several different behaviors. These behaviors may include difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD can be managed with medications and therapy, states the American Academy of Family Physicians, but not cured. These behaviors that begin in childhood continue through adulthood---but the earlier it's diagnosed, the better that means for an individual learning to cope with ADHD.
Physical Medical Exam
There isn't a diagnostic test for ADHD, states the National Institute of Mental Health. Instead, doctors use several testing methods to diagnose ADHD, starting with a physical exam.
A complete physical exam is important to make sure the child doesn't have any physical conditions or difficulties that are causing the child's ADHD symptoms, according to the NIMH. Possible physical conditions that may cause ADHD symptoms could include a problem with eyesight or hearing, seizures that go unnoticed, and neurological problems that impact a child's thought process and behaviors. A learning disability or mental health problem, including depression or anxiety, should also be ruled out before diagnosing ADHD, states the NIMH.
Observation and Interviews
Reviewing a child's behaviors, signs and symptoms is a major part of an ADHD diagnosis. A doctor will meet and discuss a child's behavior and symptoms with parents, teachers and other adults who interact with the child frequently, according to the Mayo Clinic. The doctor will ask questions about the child's behaviors in different scenarios. He will also observe the child in certain situations with varying levels of structure that require different levels of attention, to watch how the child behaves, according to the NIMH. The information gathered will then be evaluated to help diagnose ADHD.
Screening Tools and Psychological Testing
A child has to meet certain guidelines and criteria that are set by the American Psychiatric Association to be diagnosed with ADHD, states the Mayo Clinic, so a doctor will use those criteria to help in diagnosing ADHD. The doctor may also perform psychological diagnostic testing, such as an IQ test, and other tests to examine a child's emotional and social abilities, according to Rotary International.
