The ADHD Evaluation Process: What To Expect During Diagnosis

If you notice your child is frequently forgetting things, has difficulty completing tasks, or doesn’t pay attention, your child could benefit from an ADHD evaluation. It’s helpful to know what to expect. Dr. Zavala-Spinetti at Edinburg Children’s Clinic offers a wide range of medical services for children, including diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. She has two convenient office locations in Edinburg, and McAllen, TX.

What You Need To Know About an ADHD Evaluation 

An ADHD evaluation might be indicated if you notice that your child is:

• Performing repetitive movements like hand and foot tapping
• Having difficulty remaining seated for extended periods
• Running or climbing at inappropriate times
• Blurting out answers to questions Talking excessively
• Having difficulty focusing on details
• Having difficulty listening and following directions
• Having poor organizational skills
• Frequently losing items
• Being frequently distracted or forgetful

When you visit a pediatrician for an ADHD evaluation, the evaluation contains several steps. The steps include:

• Recording your child’s behavioral patterns
• Performing behavioral tests
• Talking with you, your child, and other family members about your child’s behavior

If your pediatrician diagnoses that your child has ADHD, your pediatrician may recommend one or more of these effective therapies:

• Behavioral therapy with both child and parent, focusing on minimizing inappropriate, destructive behaviors
• Lifestyle modifications including dietary restrictions like reducing sugar intake, increasing vitamins, nutrients, and exercise
• Medication therapy including medications to improve brain function and increase ability to focus

If left untreated, ADHD can cause problems when your child becomes a teen and an adult. Common consequences of untreated ADHD include:

• Poor grades
• Harmful behaviors
• Problems keeping friends
• Belligerent, aggressive behaviors
• Mood swings, depression, and frustration
• Physical growth problems
• Difficulty sleeping
• Relationship issues
• Poor performance at work

Want To Know More About an ADHD Evaluation?

To find out more about an ADHD evaluation and how it can help your child, call Dr. Zavala-Spinetti at Edinburg Children’s Clinic. You can reach her in the McAllen, TX, office by calling (956) 331-6063, or in Edinburg, TX, by calling (956) 682-4500, so call today.