Questions to Ask your Doctor about ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the common developmental problems that begin in childhood, which may or may not continue into adulthood. In children, it is characterized by inattentive behavior, impulsiveness, hyperactivity, or a combination of any of these problems. When this condition progresses into adulthood, problems like difficulty in completing tasks within set time frames, poor organizing ability, difficulty in remembering things, mood swings, depression, anxiety, etc., crop up. About 3-5% of the children develop this medical condition, but the exact cause behind this problem is still unknown. Certain studies suggest that there is a significant difference between the brains of normal children and those with ADHD.

When your child or an adult in your family is reflecting symptoms of ADHD, it is necessary to consult a doctor. If your doctor also suspects the same problem, you must be ready with certain questions to ask the doctor for understanding this medical condition in a better way.

General Questions You Should Ask

Related to ADHD What makes you suspect that ADHD is the problem? What is ADHD and what are its causes? Which symptoms are associated with ADHD? Are there any other medical conditions which have similar symptoms? What are the long-term effects of ADHD? Related to Diagnosis How will you confirm the problem is ADHD and not anything else? Which tests will be used for diagnosis? Related to Diet and Other Drugs Is there any diet restriction during the course of treatment? Are there any possible drug interactions with the prescribed medications? Is there a restriction on the use of over-the-counter medications? Are there any vitamins and supplements that should be avoided?

Related to Treatment Options If confirmed, what are the various ADHD treatment options available? Are there any alternative treatment options available? What is the span of the entire treatment? If medications are prescribed, what will be the dosages? Will the medications continue for rest of the life? Are there any side effects associated with the drugs prescribed? Can these medications be taken in an empty stomach? How soon can positive effects of the treatment be observed? Are there any proven herbal remedies available for the treatment of ADHD? After the treatment, will this condition be cured? How often will follow-up visits be required? Related to Treatment Costs How much will the entire treatment cost? Does a health insurance plan cover this medical condition?

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Child ADHD

About Adult ADHD

Do children ever outgrow this medical condition? Is it necessary to take my child to a child psychologist? What is biofeedback and ADHD coaching? How does a child benefit from behavioral and cognitive therapy? Can social skills training benefit my child? What will be the impact of ADHD on my child's emotional health? What kind of games and toys are good for my child? Should I address my child's problem with his/her teachers, and how? Are there any laws to protect a child with ADHD? What kind of study routine is advisable for my child? Is there any specific advice for parents with a child having ADHD? When and how should I inform my child about this problem? What else can I do to help my child in fighting this disorder?

Can smoking and drinking alcohol worsen my condition? Is it a good idea to use task lists to organize my work? Can you suggest electronic gadgets to stay organized? Should I inform my family and boss about my condition? Does my employer need to make any special accommodations for me? Are there any differences between men and women with ADHD? Can I continue with the medications if I get pregnant? Are any lifestyle changes required? Should I go to a psychologist or psychiatrist for treatment? How can support groups help me and my family? Can I participate in clinical trials? Where do I get information about ongoing ADHD clinical trials? How do I handle my work, social, and relationship-related impairments?

A male child is more susceptible to ADHD than a female child, and out of the entire lot, 60% of the children continue to have this problem during adulthood. Parents can try out natural remedies for ADHD along with proper medical treatment to manage associated symptoms; nevertheless, it is best to keep your doctor informed. Though this condition is incurable, timely medical intervention can help in managing the symptoms in a better way, so that sufferings can be brought down to minimum. So make a note of questions to ask your doctor about ADHD, and do not hesitate to talk because, better communication leads to better results.