Can A Primary Care Physician Diagnose ADHD?

If you believe you might have ADHD, you are not alone. ADHD occurs in 5.9 % of children and 2.5 % of adults. Most adults with ADHD have struggled with the symptoms since they were kids. Individuals with untreated ADHD have an increased risk of substance abuse, depression, and anxiety.

Getting a diagnosis is often a big relief, particularly because it means the opportunity to finally receive treatment. Talk with your primary care doctor regarding any ADHD concerns you have. They can assess your symptoms and, if necessary, create a treatment plan that best fits your needs.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder that affects how a person pays attention, their ability to sit still, and even their control over impulses. ADHD occurs in children and teens and can continue into adulthood.

While doctors are still unsure about what exactly causes ADHD, many studies indicate that genetics plays a prominent role. Still, environmental elements may also be a factor and heighten the risk of developing ADHD.

People with ADHD experience three core types of symptoms:

Individuals with ADHD may exhibit all or just some of the above-mentioned symptoms.

Although there is no known cure for ADHD, treatment often lessens the severity of symptoms and improves the quality of life for most children and adults struggling with the disorder. Treatment typically involves behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Medications commonly include a closely monitored dose of a stimulant such as Adderall. Your doctor will collaborate closely with you to determine the most appropriate prescription for you or your child.

Behavior therapy is another effective tool for managing ADHD. Behavior therapy often includes developing and practicing ADHD coping mechanisms such as using tactile objects like fidget spinners, utilizing a routine to support time management and organizational skills, maintaining a healthy diet, and adhering to a regular exercise regimen.

For children, behavior therapy may also include social skills training and learning ways to cope with difficult situations.

A psychiatrist, a psychologist, a pediatrician, or primary care physician can render a diagnosis regarding ADHD.

To assess if you have ADHD, your physician will get your complete medical history and ask you a series of questions aimed at identifying problems with attention span, hyperactivity, and impulse control.

Primary care is vital because it serves as a crucial means for preventative care , including early detection and treatment of disease and chronic conditions such as ADHD. Patients who receive regular care from a primary care doctor are more likely to receive an earlier diagnosis of conditions such as ADHD than patients without a primary care provider.

In addition, receiving ADHD treatment from your primary care doctor has several benefits.

As an established patient, securing an appointment is often faster and easier. Seeing your primary provider is also usually less expensive than seeing other types of clinicians, such as a psychiatrist. Most importantly, if you need medications, your primary care physician can prescribe them while ensuring comprehensive continuity of care with any other medicines you take or with any other health conditions you may have.

Having a good relationship with your doctor is the first step toward managing and treating ADHD. Treating your ADHD often begins with talking to your primary care physician about any concerns or struggles you are having.

It is best to make a list of any issues you are having that have prompted you to wonder whether you might have ADHD. When making your list refrain from using words like “I feel” and instead cite specific examples that support your concerns.

For instance, instead of saying, “I often feel forgetful,” provide your physician with concrete examples like “I’ve been late on three or more tasks at work this week because I lose track of time.”

Be prepared to share your diet and exercise routine, as this information will be helpful to your primary care physician when creating your treatment plan.

Be sure to jot down any questions you may have so you can refer to them during your appointment.

At the end of your visit, before you leave the office, your doctor will go over their recommended next steps, including directing you to any other resources that may be helpful.

Remember, the effective management of ADHD is an ongoing process, so be sure to attend any regular check-in appointments that your physician sets. These visits are vital to helping you have the best possible experience and to allow your doctor to make prompt adjustments to your treatment plan if needed.

Having a primary care physician who can also treat your ADHD is the foundation for maintaining your health. Our goal at Colorado Primary Healthcare is to give you a convenient solution for all your medical needs. We provide a wide range of medical treatments and services for people of all ages.

If you are searching for a doctor to treat your ADHD in the Denver area, we invite you to book an appointment using our online form or by calling our office at (303) 703-8583.

The post Can A Primary Care Physician Diagnose ADHD? appeared first on Colorado Primary Health Care.