How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving function is to get an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble waiting to be called, and paying attention at school or in other environments. These issues can seriously impact their performance at work, at home or at school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity have to be present for at minimum six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or development level. Additionally, they should be causing significant distress and issues at school, at home or work, and also in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a certified health professional. This may include a physical exam and also examining for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The doctor will also review the family history of the patient and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, the doctor will talk to the patient about his or her symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. adhd diagnostic will review the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, and look at how they impact their social, family and professional life. If possible, he she will review the person's childhood behavior and school experiences, too.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether they have a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire whether the person has an ancestral history of ADHD. People with family members with the disorder are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will give the person an extensive clinical assessment which includes reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some weeks. The doctor will also inquire about any other conditions the person has, and will use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment.
A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist might also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to screen for ADHD in a non-invasive, secure method.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history including his medical and psychiatric history dating to his childhood. The examiner will also review the person's present symptoms and coping mechanisms. The doctor checks to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
The doctor may ask teachers and other staff members who spend a great deal of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. He or she may also ask parents fill out these forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, co-workers and other close friends. They may also want to interview someone who has known the person since childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. They will also determine how long the symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at school, home or at work, or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also check for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she should also look for any physical causes for the individual's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging school staff to watch the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet, which will increase their ability to concentrate and focus. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, which can aggravate their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can last through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty in their work or relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. The evaluation includes an examination of the mind and physical examination and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents or spouses, and other people familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might request a list of the individual's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They might also employ ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, like seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medicines used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These medications have the potential to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only use them under a doctor's supervision and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before finding one that is suitable for him or her.
The following is a list with preventions.
In some cases, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits as well as family structure and medications. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control triggers and suggest a dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Consult your GP for more information. Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific backing or that may interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should visit an expert in mental health for diagnosis, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough medical history, perform a physical exam and review medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior and use the standard ratings scales. He or she will also look at the severity and frequency of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they cause significant impairment in the person's life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the family and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other organizational strategies and instruct the patient in metacognitive techniques, which involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions of a lack of alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home with clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. Parents should also encourage their child to be social and try to build a healthy bond with their spouse.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information about issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. Parents and the student's health care provider must make these decisions with the support of the teacher.