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Warning-sign checks

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help for suicidal intent, a suspected overdose, seizure, fainting, severe chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or behavior that creates an immediate danger.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a clinician promptly for marked mood changes, hallucinations, severe agitation, new suicidal thoughts, or concerning heart-related symptoms after starting or changing a medicine.

    These symptoms are not routine features of ADHD and need urgent assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up visits may examine symptom control, progress toward personal goals, functioning at home or work, sleep, mood, and any adverse effects.

    Arrange routine follow-up if symptoms remain disruptive, treatment benefits do not last through necessary activities, side effects are troublesome, or major life demands change.

    Transitions such as starting secondary school, college, a new job, pregnancy planning, or moving from pediatric to adult care may require an updated plan.

The article also says

ADHD usually requires ongoing review rather than a one-time assessment.

For children and adolescents taking medication, clinicians may monitor appetite, weight, growth, pulse, and blood pressure.

Adults may also need heart rate and blood pressure checks.

Monitoring depends on the medicine and the person’s medical history.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.