Does ADHD examination in children require fasting?

Testing for ADHD in children does not usually require fasting, but if blood tests are involved, you may need to fast as directed by your doctor.

The diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) relies mainly on professional behavioral assessments and questionnaires, such as observational data provided by parents or teachers and the results of child psychological scales. If other physiological problems are suspected, such as thyroid dysfunction or anemia that affect the child's attention and behavior, the doctor may request a blood test. Some specific blood tests require fasting to ensure accurate data. If imaging tests (such as brain MRI) are required, fasting is usually not required, but advance consultation is recommended. If there are concerns about allergies or metabolic abnormalities, the doctor may request further special tests, which may involve fasting, but rarely as a preliminary step in ADHD screening.

Before the examination, parents need to ensure that their children have a regular daily routine and avoid overeating or consuming foods containing caffeine. When taking your child to the hospital, it is best to bring your child's usual study notes and behavioral observation records, and understand the specific examination requirements in advance. If the doctor does arrange a fasting project, please follow the doctor's instructions and avoid food or drinks that affect the test. Parents should also give their children appropriate psychological comfort to reduce the anxiety caused by the examination.