How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms as well as your history with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship problems can prompt awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to get a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty waiting to be called and paying attention in school or other situations. These problems can significantly impact their performance at work, home or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. adhd diagnosis adults must be causing major problems at work, school and at home as well as in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a trained health care professional. This could include a physical exam, and also examining for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider may also review the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The physician will follow the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will analyze the person's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible, he or will examine the person's childhood behavior and school experiences as well.
When evaluating adults, a provider will look into whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more prone to develop it.
If a health care provider suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the patient's current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. They can also ask the person about any other medical conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can conduct screenings and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam which includes a thorough evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist may 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 type of brain scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the individual, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, and also the present symptoms and strategies for coping. 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).
For children and teens who are being assessed for ADHD The doctor may request teachers and other individuals who spend much time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. They might also ask parents to fill out these forms. For adults, they will often talk to spouses and other close friends as well as colleagues and might also interview someone from the family who knows the person from 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. The doctor will determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at home, at school, at work or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. The professional must also determine any physical causes for the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. Additionally the thorough examination will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid 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 techniques and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can boost the ability of children with ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks that can worsen their symptoms. Also, they should ensure they get enough sleep.
Symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an assessment to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history as well as a physical examination and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents, spouse or life partner and other people who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. They might also employ rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person is in compliance with the standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may inquire about medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children and adults. 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. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or she is taking, because certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD need to test different dosages and types of medication before they find one that works.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing exposure to triggers in the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include sleep and diet and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can guide you in identifying ways to control triggers, and can recommend a dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they be suffering from ADHD should seek out an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will take a detailed history, conduct physical examination and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the person's behavior and apply standard ratings scales. The therapist will assess the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as well being aware of whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. how to diagnosis adhd can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can help by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They must also encourage their child to socialize, and work to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
The staff at the school may provide valuable information about the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they aren't competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the support of each other.