ADHD Test – The ADHD Testing Protocol

ADHD tests should involve more than simply consulting a list of symptoms and seeing if they match. ADHD is a spectrum disorder, meaning no two cases are exactly alike. What complicates matters is that each individual also suffers from other health problems and nutritional deficiencies that manifest themselves in chronic hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Since treating ADHD effectively will require a personalized treatment plan, every person has to go through a comprehensive testing protocol that can accurately pinpoint his or her unique combination of symptoms and problems.

Ideally, the ADHD testing procedule should have a 7-level evaluation process designed to identify problem areas to be treated.

Interview with the parents

Since parents know their children best, they are the most reliable sources of information about the severity of their child’s symptoms, as well as other relevant details like family history, health, school performance, and social functioning. The interview with the parents will also cover their expectations, financial limitations, and level of motivation. The last two factors are particularly important. Some of the advanced tests are not covered by insurance and are very expensive. Unlike dispensing a pill to be swallowed daily, treating ADHD naturally will require lifestyle changes and a high level of commitment. The program will be designed around how much time the parents can spare, as well as their budget for treatment.

Using scales to measure behavior

A rating scale called the Child Behavior Checklist will be used to objectify the symptoms of the child’s disorder.

Comprehensive neuropsychological tests

There are many co-morbid conditions that occur with ADHD, and many of these are developmental in nature. A full neuropsychological exam is done to screen for learning disorders and other conditions.

Measuring impulsivity and inattention

A continuous performance test called the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) is used to measure the severity of the child’s inattention and impulsivity. To the child taking the test, TOVA seems like a simple computer game, but it actually measures instances of inattention and impulsivity based on his or her real-time response to auditory and visual stimuli.

Complete physical and neurological exam

There are subtle neurological differences between a normal brain and an adhd brain, and these can be identified only through a complete neurological exam. The exams include procedures like cerebellar testing, posturography, and eye movement testing, which are not done in hospitals. Instead, parents must find a chiropractor with special training in functional neurology. If these exams fail to yield any helpful results, there are two other neurological exams that may be of use – SPECT testing and QEEG testing. Although comprehensive, these exams should be used only after other options have been exhausted, because they cost hundreds of dollars and are only available in certain areas.

Basic lab work

Blood tests are replete with information about your child’s health, nutritional status, and information that can uncover hidden health problems. The lab work required for evaluating ADHD includes a blood cell count, zinc testing, and iron metabolism. In some cases, celiac disease screening, blood lead level analysis, and thyroid hormone testing will be requested.